The only walk-up kayaking program in northern Manhattan has run since 2002 and takes over a thousand guests out every summer, all of it free. You get twenty minutes on the Hudson in a sit-on-top or a tandem, or six people at once in the club's canoemaran, with the George Washington Bridge filling the sky downstream. If you have never been on the river that built this city, this fixes that.
What to expect
Sign-up opens in person at 9 a.m. at the boathouse and fills fast; you take one of three waves, then come back at your assigned time. Wave one launches at 10 a.m., wave two at 10:45 and wave three at 11:30. The club provides a sit-on-top kayak, paddle and PFD, and a member paddles out with every group.
Good to know
- A train to Dyckman Street, then walk west through Inwood Hill Park to the boathouse on the river.
- Everyone who paddles must be able to swim and be at least eight years old; under-18s need a parent or guardian present.
- Complete the season waiver on the club's site before your first visit — it saves a queue at the boathouse.
- Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet, and bring your own dry bag; the club takes no responsibility for valuables left ashore or in a boat.
- No pets at Open House, and spots go first come, first served, so earlier is better.
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Common questions
Do I need to book?
No. Sign-up is in person at the boathouse and first come, first served across three guided waves. Once you have a spot, be back on time or you forfeit it.
Is it really free?
Yes. The boat, paddle and life vest are all included, and the club is volunteer-run. You do need to complete the season waiver first.
Can kids paddle?
From age eight, with a parent or guardian for anyone under 18. Whether a minor goes out is the call of the member running the day, based on river conditions.
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