ASTROExperiences

Boat Rentals · Chicago, IL

Kayak Chicago - Chicago River

Kayak Chicago is an original kayak and paddleboard outfitter offering rentals and guided tours on the Chicago River.

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Overview

About Kayak Chicago - Chicago River

Guests can begin in the calm waters of the wild mile, observing floating gardens and turtles, before paddling downtown to see skyscrapers and the riverwalk. Personal lessons are provided for all guests, covering paddle strokes, safety, and boat control. Equipment is included for all rentals, tours, and classes.

ArtWildlifeKayakBoat

Made for

  • Guided kayak and stand-up paddleboard tours are offered.
  • Classes for sea kayaking, SUP, SUP yoga and paddling fitness suit every level.
  • First-timers receive a personal lesson from an instructor covering strokes, safety and balance.
  • Rentals cover the boat, paddle, flotation device and a kayaking orientation.

The packages

Learn to Kayak

Beginner class covering basic techniques for flat calm water.

Sea Kayaking

A 4-hour introduction teaching nomenclature, paddling techniques and rescues on the water.

Intermediate Kayaking

Requires prior kayaking experience or completion of the introduction course.

Intro to Stand-Up Paddleboard

Covers board parts, standing up, balance, turning and basic rescues.

Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga

The SUP yoga instructor is certified through the American Canoe Association.

City Lights Night Paddle

Paddle begins at dark down the Chicago River, with city lights reflecting off the water.

Shoreline Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour

Paddleboard tour along the Montrose Beach coastline with balance and stroke instruction.

Sunset, Bon fire & S’mores

Guests relax in Adirondack chairs with music by the fire and s'mores.

St. Paddy’s Day Green River Tour

Options are single or double kayaks, or an 18 passenger Voyageur canoe.

Air and Water Show Tour

Guests watch planes fly overhead from the water during the Air and Water Show.

The styles

Single Kayak

Single kayaks can be rented at the Chicago River, Montrose Beach and North Ave Beach.

Electric Boats

CraigCat electric boats suit a relaxed afternoon outing on the water.

Classic 1950's Milo Boat Rental

Classic Milo boat rental suited to a weekend afternoon on the river.

Event experiences

  • Waterproof phone cases are sold on-site.

How it works

  1. Make a Reservation

    Reserve online by choosing boats and a start time.

Good to know

  • Kids under 12 need an adult with them in a double kayak.
  • Walk-ups are accepted first come, first served.
  • Rentals are prorated by the quarter hour after the first hour.
  • Equipment is provided for guided tours, classes and rentals.
  • Guests must arrive at least 15 minutes before the event starts.
  • Latecomers cannot join once the group is already on the water.
  • Weather cancellations earn a rain check for a rescheduled date.
  • Cancel at least 48 hours before an event to be refunded.
  • Registering 2 – 7 days ahead is recommended to secure a spot.
  • A strict no alcohol policy applies for safety.
  • Storage cubbies at each location hold belongings.
  • Lightweight synthetic clothing, sunglasses, sunblock and a hat are advised.
  • Moisture-wicking synthetic activewear is recommended for the architectural tour.
  • Open 7 days a week at this location.
  • Fireworks paddles run every Wednesday and Saturday.
  • The architectural tour runs daily.

Details from kayakchicago.com

Plan your visit

Duration
2 hrs

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