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Kayaking & canoeing in New York City

THE 5 BEST New York City Kayaking & Canoeing

Kayaking & Canoeing in New York City

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What travelers are saying

  • Sally
    1 contribution
    Night Tour was AMAZING
    What an awesome experience. Entering the water at dusk and paddling the Hudson in the dark, getting information from the guides regarding where we were at, some history etc...fantastic experience, highly recommend you do this! The team at MKC is fantastic.
    Review of: Manhattan Kayak Company
    Written July 25, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Dirk Geeroms
    6 contributions
    Unique thing to do in NYC
    We had a great time. The volunteers are really friendly. They explain everything in a very clear way. It is a must do when you are visiting New York
    Review of: The Downtown Boathouse
    Written September 16, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Katie
    1 contribution
    The best free activity in NYC!
    I first came here back in 2016 for the free kayaking. It was a blazing hot day and I just HAD to find a way to get out on the water, somewhere in the city. Manhattan Community Boathouse was just the place! I felt so welcomed and had so much fun during my first visit that I decided to become a volunteer.

    5 years later, I still spend almost every summer weekend here, helping the organization offer the public the priceless (FREE!) experience of paddling on the Hudson river. Sharing this unique experience with the public is one of my favorite things to do in the city, and seeing the smiles on people's faces makes it all worth it. As a volunteer, I enjoy the extra training classes offered and volunteer-only kayaking trips we get to go on as well!

    A few things to know for the 2021 season, some of which is different from prior year reviews: MCBH is operating by reservation to prevent overcrowding. They are open Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM - 6 PM through October 10. You can reserve your spot up to 2 weeks in advance on the website. Paddlers of all skill levels are invited to participate as long as you know how to swim. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. They offer changing rooms and lockers with locks provided, so you can bring a change of clothes if you want, because you will get wet. There's no public restroom here though, so be sure to stop in Clinton Dewitt park at 54th & 11th Ave before walking over if you need to use the facilities! Otherwise, a portapotty along the bike path near the boathouse is the only toilet option.

    Did I mention it's all free? The program is run entirely by volunteers, and funded solely by donations from the public, but there is absolutely no pressure to donate. Whether you come as a volunteer or as a member of the public, I think this is the best free activity in NYC!
    Review of: Manhattan Community Boathouse
    Written July 21, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • KTBNY
    Manchester, NH502 contributions
    Great SUP Rentals
    If you have some experience with standup paddleboarding, you can rent boards without taking a formal lesson. Though we didn't take a lesson, we were given some instruction before hitting the Hudson. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. The boards were inflatable ones in great condition. The price is right at $25 for one hour. This is one of the best deals in NYC! And it offers great views of the Freedom Tower.
    Review of: New York Kayak Company
    Written September 14, 2014
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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