We have forty different kayak tours to choose from. Tours are divided into Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced programs, plus multi-day, specialty and other programs. Many programs fill up a week or two in advance. If your questions are not answered on these pages check the FAQ page. If you want to know about the equipment Atlantic Kayak Tours uses, check our Equipment page.
Read "The Hudson: History and Habitat" A Primer for Kayakers
Is Your Personal Kayak Acceptable?
Check our acceptable kayak page
What Level Tour Should I Take?
First Timers
If you have never been on a kayaking trip, the Annsville Easy or Norrie Short Tour is ideal. These programs are just a few hours long and include some basic instruction and a trip on the Hudson River. We offer two other good ways to try kayaking: kayak rental or the Thursday Night Skill Sessions at Annsville Creek.
Beginner
If you have kayaked just a few times, then a full day Beginner program or a Sunset program might be the best next step. Beginner kayak tours cover up to ten miles at a relaxed (roughly 2-knot) pace, with plenty of breaks for rest and water. Also, think about taking some of our enjoyable and effective Instructional programs to enhance your skills and your enjoyment of the sport.
Intermediate
Intermediate tours cover up to twenty miles at a 3 plus knot pace with fewer stops than the beginner programs. While we try to avoid rough conditions on Beginner tours, on Intermediate tours we are happy to find them. A few intermediate trips include surf landings. If you have been on Beginner programs, have taken a few instructional programs and find Beginner programs easy, then an Intermediate program is your next step. You might want to try the Power Paddle to see if you are ready for full day Intermediate programs. This half day program from Annsville Creek moves at an Intermediate pace, but for a shorter distance and time. As an intermediate paddler you should now be carrying more safety and preparedness equipment, including a compass, first aid kit, tow line, paddle park, storm cag, etc.
Advanced
This is where it really becomes fun. An Advanced tour can include any combination of longer distance, faster pace, and potential for rough conditions. Beginner programs try to avoid rough conditions, Intermediate programs deal with rough conditions, Advanced programs look for rough conditions. A 4 knot pace is common on Advanced programs. Advanced paddlers need to have reliable skills and high group-awareness. You need to be able to take care of not just yourself, but also others in the group. A full kayak kit should be carried. This would include all the same equipment needed for an Intermediate tour, plus a chart, signaling equipment, flashlight (headlamp), repair kit, extra food and clothing, and a boat designed for advanced conditions.
Icons
Most programs have a few of the following Icons next to the program title.
Click the sun next to the program title to get current weather information.
Map of the general area. Detailed directions will be sent upon registration.
1.0 - Meeting place is within walking distance of the train station. The number next to the icon represents the walking distance (in miles) to the meeting place. Click for the train schedule.
3.0 - You need to take a taxi from the train station. The number represents the milage. Train and taxi phone numbers are in the trip descriptions you receive with registration.
Lodging Information Icon.
Camping Information Icon
Link to Restaurant information.
Link to history information website or page.
Client Letter about the program.
Click Icon for a photo.
Adobe PDF file.
