Quick Details
Single Kayak
👤 Ride solo. No experience needed.
$ 65
Tandem Kayak Seat
👥 Ride together. Select total people.
$ 65
NYC’s Architectural Tapestry: Unfiltered and from the Water
Skip the crowded tourist boats for a 90-minute experience including 60 minutes of guided paddling through the wide-open Hudson. From the glass towers of Hudson Yards to the historic spire of the Empire State Building, experience a panoramic mix of architectural styles and hues that can only be appreciated from the water’s surface. Whether you’re celebrating a date or just escaping your screen, it’s the most unique perspective of the Manhattan skyline.
Leave the cove and head into big open water for panoramic city views.
Choose Your Ambiance
☀️ Daytime Dazzle: See the architectural tapestry of Manhattan in crisp panoramas.
🌅 Sunset Serenity: Watch the skyline turn to gold from the best seat in NYC.
🌃 Night Glow: Experience the After Dark magic as you paddle past city lights.
Perfect For:
- The Non-Touristy Visitor: Discover the city off the beaten path with local guides.
- Active Dates: A spontaneous, unplugged hangout that beats dinner and drinks.
- Friend Groups: Do something different. We provide the gear; you provide the energy.
What’s Included
- Professional kayak guides, sit-on-top kayak, paddle, and life jacket.
- 10-minute land intro followed by 60 minutes of guided paddling on the main Hudson.
- Access to our indoor changing rooms, restrooms, and secure lockers at Pier 84.
- A free digital photo of you against the Manhattan skyline.
What to Bring
- Lightweight gym clothes and a full change for after—you will get splashed.
- Shoes will get wet so wear athletic sandals, old sneakers, or water shoes; no flip-flops.
- Water bottle and a padlock for your locker, or rent a lock from us for $5.
- Waterproof phone pouch recommended. Rent a pouch from us for $5.
Good to Know
- No prior kayaking or swimming experience is required for this route.
- Open to ages 10 and up. Ages 10–14 must ride in a tandem kayak with an adult.
- Weight limit is 225 lb per person maximum for our sit-on-top kayaks.
Escape the heat island.
Looking for our Night or Sunset trips? These sessions are tidal-dependent and limited. Check the 🌃 and 🌅 icons on our live calendar to grab these rare slots before they sell out.
Common Questions
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Everything you need is covered: kayak, paddle, life jacket, a short on-land lesson, and a 60-minute guided river trip. The full experience lasts 90 minutes from check-in to finish. Guides stay with you the whole time and take group photos during the trip.
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A: You can come alone or bring up to 12 people, if there is space. You can see and book all available seats on the live calendar below.
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Yes—we offer rentals too–but rentals stay within a sheltered cove near shore. They’re great for kids, beginners, and anyone looking for a budget-friendly float.
Going out on the Hudson River is different. There’s boat traffic, tidal currents, and changing conditions, so it’s not something we allow without a guide from start to finish. Our guided trips are your best option for exploring the skyline, getting out on the river, and sharing the experience with others. -
No problem, swimming skills aren’t required. Everyone wears a U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifejacket that keeps you floating, even if you’re not moving. We’ve safely guided thousands of non-swimmers of all ages.
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Arrive at the time shown on your booking. Come to Pier 84 Boathouse in Hudson River Park. It’s on the water near 12th Avenue & W44th Street.
No need to arrive early — just show up at the time listed. But if anyone wants to change clothes, decompress, or eat a snack before the trip, you’re welcome to arrive up to 10 minutes early. Plan for at least 90 minutes total.
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No experience needed. Most people are total beginners, and it always goes smoothly. Our stable kayaks and expert guides make it easy and fun, even if you’ve never been on the water before.
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Yes. All trips include trained guides who stay with you from start to finish. They’ll help with outfitting, launching, and even teach a short lesson to get everyone comfortable before heading out.
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You’re welcome to make changes to your booking using the link in your confirmation email up to 72 hours before the trip starts. After that point, we don’t offer refunds or credit. Latecomers will not not admitted.
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We’ll never ask you to go out in showers or unsafe weather — period. We always make thoughtful, up-to-date weather decisions and communicate closely when the forecast looks bad. Otherwise, our 72-hour cancellation policy applies.