Getting Started
How do I get started in kayaking?
See First Time Page.
What level tour should I take?
Everyone should start with half or full day beginner tour. If you find them very easy and have taken a instructional program you can move up to the intermediate tours.
What level instructional program should I take?
If you have only kayaked a few times and have never taken a formal instructional program start with Basic. If you have been paddling a while then it might be fine to start with Core Techniques.
Contacting, Checking Availability, Signing up and Cancellation
How do I sign up for a program?
Register by e-mailing, info@AtlanticKayakTours.com, or calling either paddlesport center. We will follow up for payment and confirmation.
Registration can be done on the phone. Please keep in mind that the phone is very busy and we are out running programs on many days, so mail is the easiest method.
How do I check if space is available?
If the program is less than two weeks away - E-mail or call.
What is the best way of contacting Atlantic Kayak Tours?
See the Contact Us page.
How do I know if I'm confirmed?
Once we receive your registration form, we will send an e-mail with a Program Description in PDF format attached. The information will include directions, meeting time, equipment list, liability release form and other information relating to the program.
Do you cancel for bad weather?
We cancel programs only if the weather forecast is very bad, but we try not to cancel. Wind affects us more than rain. Spring and Fall programs get cancelled more than summer programs and we try to cancel the night before the program. It is important that the phone number you give us is where you can be reached the night before the program.
What is your cancellation policy?
The cancellation policy is on the Registration Information page.
Can I get directions to the program on the web site?
Directions will be sent upon registration and are not located on the website. We do have directions to the Annsville Creek Paddlesport Center and to Norrie Paddlesport Center on the website.
Equipment
What type of kayaks does Atlantic Kayak Tours use?
We use boats from Necky Kayaks, Nigel Dennis Kayaks, Valley Canoe Products, and others. Our 125 boat fleet is made up of fiberglass and plastic kayaks. There is a wide selection of kayaks to pick from. We feel the quality of the equipment is reflected in the safety and enjoyment of paddling. Once you paddle a high quality kayak, you won't want to paddle anything else!
How do I request a specific model of kayak?
Space is available on our registration form for your kayak request. The farther in advance you register and request a model the greater the likelihood we can provide it. If the request is very important please state that. Many people will request a general boat for example: a fast single, a stable single, a double.
What if I don't know what kayak I want?
Fill in your approximate size and we will bring a boat to fit you.
Is your personal kayak acceptable?
Yes. Your boat must have bow and stern flotation and be a minimum of 14’ long. Call or e-mail to check.
Things to know about the programs
Most beginner programs meet at about 9:30, so you have time to get your kayak and equipment ready. It is important that we be courteous to the entire group, so please arrive on time. Some advanced programs start earlier. Always check the trip description for starting time. Annsville Easy and Norrie Short Tours have different start times throughout the season.
How difficult will the program be?
Annsville Easy and Norrie Short Tours are the least difficult, followed by full day beginner tours. Intermediate tours are harder, but the degree of difficulty is affected by your physical condition. The weather (wind) and the other clients will also determine the speed and difficulty of the program.
Most programs are for 16 and above. We do have several programs suitable for children and families. Annsville Easy and Norrie Short Tours allow for younger paddlers (see descriptions).
Disposable waterproof cameras are best. Zip locks or dry bags are not a guarantee for your valuable cameras.
Do I need any special clothing?
It depends on the time of year.You should wear appropriate footwear at all times. You will need to walk into the water to get in and out of the kayak. In the spring and fall keep away from cotton. A detailed equipment list is sent upon registration. We have farmer john suits and paddling jackets available for rent, if you don't have appropriate clothing.
Can you accommodate someone with physical limitations?
Yes we can. On our registration form there is space for you to let us know what your special needs are. Below is our Access Statement.
We don't recommend you bring cell phones. They don't hold up well in water, even the best dry bag will leak a bit.
Can I bring beer or wine for lunch?
Alcohol cannot be allowed on any day program.
Bring your own lunch for all programs, and of course plenty of water!
The trip directions you receive will offer information on restroom availability at the launch site. Rest stops are taken while on the water, but we need to rely on the facilities provided by nature.
E-mail us if you have more questions.