How do I get started in sea kayaking?
Start by taking our 3-hour tour or Kayaking Fundamentals Lesson. These programs are designed to provide experience for those with little or no paddling experience.
How difficult are the tours?
The 3-hour beginner tours are light tours for people who are interested in having fun on the water and improving their kayak skills. The waves, tides, wind, and pace of the other guests will determine the speed and difficulty of the trip.
What do I need to bring with me for the tour?
You should bring bottled water, a hat, sun block - spf30, sunglasses with a keeper strap, sturdy water shoes or old sneakers, clothing you don't mind getting wet or clothing appropriate for the weather conditions (e.g. a jacket for wind and rain), dry clothes for the ride home (just in case), and a camera (optional).
Synthetic clothing is recommended instead of cotton clothing. Jeans and sweatshirts are strongly discouraged since if they get wet they will dry very slowly. Any of these items can be purchased at American Terrain Outdoors in White Plains, New York. The phone number is 914-682-3971.
What time do tours start?
Our tour times vary by location, check our calendar or call our reservation line for the most current information. We do ask that you arrive 20 minutes before your trip starts. Please be prompt so as to not hold up the trip.
Sleepy Hollow:
Friday Sunset Tour from 6pm-8:30pm;
Saturday and Sunday from 9am-12pm, 1pm-4pm.
Call our reservation line at 914-682-5135
Other Tours and Locations:
Check calendar or call our reservation line at 914-682-5135
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What are your trips like?
At any one of our sites the guides work individually with the guests in fitting the boat and equipment. On-land orientation covers the trip route and paddling basics. The orientation, gear distribution and fitting generally take 45 minutes. When we first get on the water we spend some time in a protected area working on our newly acquired skills. Once the guides feel that everyone is ready, we set off for our trip. Most beginners find our three hour tour to be the perfect length of time to kick off their paddling careers.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes, generally children as young as eight years old can come on our trips. We will deal with each request to bring a child based on their height, weight, age, and strength. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis. Usually parents are asked to accompany their younger child in a double kayak.
How do I check if space is available on a tour?
You can call us at 914-682-5135 for initial inquiries about a particular trip or email us at info@kayakhudson.com.
How do I sign up for a trip?
Reserve by calling us at 914-682-5135.
Do you take credit cards?
We accept all major credit cards.
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How early should I get there before my lesson or guided tour?
Twenty minutes before the tour is scheduled to begin so that we can set you up with your gear and have you ready to go when the tour is ready to begin.
What are the pre-requisites for taking a guided tour?
A pulse, good health and a desire to have fun. We will teach you the basics before and during the tour. Some kayak companies require that first time paddlers take a course before embarking on a trip but we are of the motor-learning persuasion and feel that you can learn the basics before and on the water - and it is significantly less expensive our way.
How early do I need to book a tour?
Reservations should be made as early as possible since classes and tours are limited in size. Generally calling four days in advance allows you to get a decent look at the weather and that should give enough time to book the trip time of your choice. Special trips such as the The "Fireworks Tour" and the "Sunset Tours" book quickly so it is good to get in early on those.
What is the best way of contacting Hudson River Recreation?
It depends on the type of inquiry. If a message is not urgent e-mail works great (e-mail: info@kayakhudson.com). Otherwise call us at 914-682-5135.
Who are private programs best for?
If time is limited, or your needs are specialized, a private tour is best. A private weekday tour can easily be accommodated. Weekend availability is limited to a private group of 12 or more guests. Call 914-682-5135 for more details.
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Do you cancel for bad weather?
We cancel tours only if the weather forecast is very bad. It is important that the phone number you give us is a number where you can be reached two hours before the trip is scheduled to leave. If you need more lead-time let us know when booking the trip. If we cancel the trip because of bad weather you will be given a gift certificate for a change of date during the season. If the weather is questionable, you must show up to the site if you have not heard from us. If you feel that the weather is too bad or the water is too rough for you once you are at the site you are entitled to a gift certificate for any other date during the season.Once you have entered the water there will be no refunds. If you do not show up there will be no refund.
What is your cancellation policy?
You are entitled to a full refund if you notify us at least 48 hours in advance. If you notify us after that we will send a gift certificate for another day during the season. If you don't show up for your tour and don't notify us there will be no refund.
Can I bring a camera?
If you do, we suggest you bring a disposable waterproof camera. If you wish to bring your personal camera we cannot be held responsible for any damage that may occur to it. When not in use, we recommend that you place the camera in a dry bag or zip lock bag for protection from water damage.You can purchase a Baja drybag at American Terrain Outdoors.Check them out on the web at www.americanterrain.com.
Do I need any special clothing?
We require that you have footwear at all times. You need to wear footwear that you do not mind getting wet as you may need to walk into the water to get in and out of the kayak. Surf-mocs or water booties are ideal. Water sandals can also work. We also recommend you bring shorts or swimwear. Try not to wear cotton because cotton retains moisture which may make you cold. Synthetics dry quickly and will keep you happier. If the day looks windy bring a windbreaker. If it is sunny bring a hat and extra sunscreen. A dry set of clothing to greet you on your return to land is also a good idea.
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Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes, gift certificates are available. Call 914-682-5135 for more information.
Do kayaks tip over?
Do dogs bite? The answer is yes they can, but capsizes are rare on our tours. However if you do find yourself in the water, generally, our guides will have you back in your boat in less than two minutes.
Is there an age requirement to take a kayaking lesson or guided tour?
All paddlers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must have a waiver signed by their legal guardian. Any youth must be of an age that they can participate fully in the sport.
Do you rent or sell kayaks or kayak equipment?
We rent kayaks at our Tarrytown Lakes location (see rentals).
We also sell rental and demo kayaks, (see sales).
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