FAQs

What to know before you go

Below you’ll find all the answers to the most frequently asked questions people ponder before they paddle. If you don’t see the answer you're looking for here, feel free to contact us by reaching out via social media or by email.

KAYAK FAQS

ARE KAYAKS SAFE?

Kayaking in Austin is safe for people of all skill levels, including beginners. We use high quality equipment that’s well maintained, and our dock attenants can help you select the kayak that’s best suited for your adventure on Lady Bird Lake.

Do I Need to Wear a Life jacket While Kayaking in Austin?

Anyone under 13 years old will be required to wear a lifejacket, and it’s highly recommended for everyone else and you are required to keep a life vest on your vessel. But don’t worry, we have lifejackets in all sizes that are free to use with your rental.

Can Kids or Dogs Ride in an Austin Kayak Rental?

Kids can ride in our kayaks.Dogs and other pets are permitted at this time. Please note, given the history of poisonous toxins found in the blue-green algae in Lady Bird Lake, if you decide to bring your pet, you are doing so at your own risk. The City of Austin recommends that all pet owners do not let their pets/dogs swim or drink the water in Lady Bird Lake.All pet owners will be asked to sign a pet waiver that details the history of the algae and the current status. For reference, our pet waiver is here.To learn more about the history of toxic algae in Lady Bird Lake, please visit: austintexas.gov/algae

Do I Need to Make a Reservation for Kayak Rentals?

Nope. For all of our boats, we operate on a first come, first served basis all day, every day. To avoid long lines, we recommend arriving early on weekend mornings.

What Should I Bring While Kayaking in Austin?

At Rowing Dock we provide lifejackets and paddles, but there are a few things we highly recommend taking on your kayaking trip on Lady Bird Lake. While we sell sunscreen, water, and hats at the dock, you are welcome to bring your own. Kayaking down Lady Bird Lake provides a lot of opportunities for amazing pictures of the Austin skyline, Barton Springs, Congress Bridge and much more. If you need, we have dry bags at the dock to keep your cameras and smartphones protected.

Do you have one and two person kayaks for rent?

Yes, we have single kayaks and double kayaks for rent. A single is $20/hour and a double kayak is $25/hour. We also have pedal kayaks that seat one for $30/hour.

What types of kayaks do you have?

We have sit-inside kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks, and pedal kayaks.

Do you offer fishing kayaks?

Many of our kayaks are well suited for fishing and have scupper holes and rod holder options. All of our boats have plenty of room for your fishing gear. Our Pedal Kayaks are also a great fit for fishing.

Canoe FAQ

Do I Need a Reservation to Rent a Canoe?

Nope. There’s a first come, first serve policy at Rowing Dock, but we have plenty of boats. If there is a line, it moves quickly.

Are Canoes Safe for Beginners?

Canoeing in Austin is safe for experienced paddlers as well as beginners. It doesn’t take long to get the hang of making turns and maneuvering a canoe. We use high quality equipment that’s well maintained for enhanced comfort and safety while you’re out on the water.

Can Kids Rent Their Own Canoe?

Yes, under most circumstances kids can rent their own canoe as long as a guardian signs the rental waiver, but they would need to bring two additional guests to balance the weight. However, kids under 13 years old must ride with a parent/ guardian in their canoe. For kids in this age range, we would recommend renting a kayak, as they are easier to navigate.

How many people can go in a canoe?

A canoe can fit three adults or 2 adults and 1-2 small kids depending on their size.

What Should I Bring While Canoeing in Austin?

At Rowing Dock we provide life jackets and paddles, but there are a few things we highly recommend taking on your canoeing trip on Lady Bird Lake. While we sell sunscreen, water, and hats at the dock, you are welcome to bring your own. Canoeing down Lady Bird Lake provides a lot of opportunities for amazing pictures of the Austin skyline, Barton Springs, Congress Bridge and much more. If you need, we have dry bags at the dock to keep your cameras and smartphones protected.

SUP FAQS

Is Paddle Boarding in Austin Difficult for Beginners?

Paddle boarding is much easier than it looks, and if you want you can sit down or kneel rather than standing up on the board. The great thing about paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake is the water is extremely calm. Lady Bird Lake is a no-wake lake, which makes it easier to glide through the water on a paddleboard.

Can Kids Rent a Stand Up Paddle Board in Austin?

Yep! We have paddle boards that are suitable for kids as young as eight years old. However, if a child is under 16 they have to be accompanied by a parent when they’re out on Lady Bird Lake.

Do I Need to Wear a Life jacket While Paddle Boarding in Austin?

The city ordinances state that anyone under 16 years old must wear a life jacket out on Lady Bird Lake. We encourage all paddlers that are not strong swimmers to wear their life jackets to be safe. All others must have a life jacket with them in boats but aren’t required to wear the life jacket. You can bring your own life jacket with you or use one of ours at no extra charge.

What Should I Bring While Paddle Boarding in Austin?

At Rowing Dock, we provide lifejackets and paddles, but there are a few things we highly recommend taking on your paddle boarding trip on Lady Bird Lake. While we sell sunscreen, water, and hats at the dock, you are welcome to bring your own. Outside of those items, we do not recommend taking too much more with you due to the design of the paddle board. Paddle boarding provides a lot of opportunities for amazing pictures of the Austin skyline, Barton Springs, Congress Bridge and much more. If you need, we have dry bags at the dock to keep your cameras and smartphones protected.

Can my child rent a paddle board?

Minors 8-15 years of age may paddle board only if a parent is on the water and will be next to the minor for the duration of the rental. Minors 16 and older may paddle without a parent on the water with them, but are required to have their parent sign our rental waiver.

Will I fall off of my paddle board?

You might, but most paddle boarders do not. Don’t expect to fall in, but be prepared to fall in. Leave behind anything you don’t want to get wet. If you fall off your board, do not linger in the water. It is very easy to get back on the SUP boards from the water.

Can both my child and I be on one stand up paddle board?

You can bring your child as long as they are under 50 lbs. We have larger boards available in these instances. They should not paddle, but they can enjoy the ride.

Are you allowed to wear water shoes on the SUP?

We do not permit water shoes as they make the boards quite dirty and can damage the padding.

Can I dock my paddle board and go explore the shore?

No, docking the paddleboard damages it. You must be with your boat at all times. If you lose or damage any equipment, you will be held financially responsible.

General FAQs

Can I just get a waiver at the dock?

Yes.

How do I get to Rowing Dock?

Given limited parking options throughout Zilker Park, we heavily encourage ride-sharing, biking, or public transit via CapMetro. There is a large gravel lot east of Mopac for easiest parking, with a 5-10 minute walk to Rowing Dock ($7/vehicle). We ask that all are respectful of our neighbors including the Nature and Science Center, and do not park in their bus/handicap lane. If you do plan to attempt to drive closer, there will be limited parking on a first come, first serve basis in the Rowing Dock parking lot or under the Mopac bridge. Due to an increase in theft in the area, please do not leave any valuables in your car.

Do you have a private parking lot?

Yes, we have a parking lot that is available to our customers free of charge, but parking tends to fill up quickly. Given limited parking options throughout Zilker Park, we heavily encourage ride-sharing, biking, or public transit via CapMetro. If you do plan to drive, there will be limited parking on a first come, first serve basis in the Rowing Dock parking lot, under the Mopac bridge and a paid parking option in the gravel lot just East of Mopac off Stratford ($7/vehicle). We ask that all are respectful of our neighbors including the Nature and Science Center, and do not park in their bus/handicap lane. Due to an increase in theft in the area, please do not leave any valuables in your car.

Do I need an ID to rent a boat?

At least one person in your group is required to have a valid ID and matching credit card in order to rent.

How old does my group need to be to rent at Rowing Dock?

If you are under 18 years old, a parent or legal guardian must sign your rental waiver for you. If you are under 16 years of age, a parent or guardian must accompany you on your trip.

Can I pay with a Credit Card?

Yes! We accept all credit cards. We also like cash.

Do you have changing facilities?

Outhouse, yo!

Do you have bathrooms on-site?

Yes, we have several port-o-johns to use on-site.

Do you have lockers?

No. We have open cubbies to store your shoes, towel, and other items. We strongly suggest leaving all non essential items and valuables at home. Splash bags are available to rent for small items like cash, credit cards, and your ID. If you must bring other items, medium and large dry bags are available to rent. DO NOT LEAVE VALUABLES IN YOUR VEHICLE. Leave valuables at home or take them on the water with you in a dry bag.

Do I need to be in shape to rent a Kayak, Canoe or SUP?

All our boats require physical work, but participants do not have to regularly exercise to enjoy their experience. Renters of all sizes and ages generally enjoy their experience on Lady Bird Lake in our boats.

Do I need to bring a life jacket?

We provide paddles and life preservers for each renter.

Is there an age limit for kids to go out on the water?

No. As long as parents are on the water with the children and feel comfortable taking them, we allow children of all ages. We do require children to wear life jackets and have sizes specifically for infants, youth, and children, in addition to adult life jackets.

Can I bring my infant with me?

Yes, we do allow infants to go out on the water. We do recommend two adults for every infant so that one individual can paddle while the other holds the infant. Rowing Dock has infant life jackets and a few options for boats with jump seats (small seat right next to the parent) for small children.

Will I have to wait long for a boat?

Not usually. On busy weekends, plan to come earlier in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds. If you have to wait a while, it is very pleasant hanging out at the park in the shade chatting with friends.

What is the longest time I can be on the water?

You are welcome to stay out on the water as long you prefer; however, you must return your boats BEFORE we close. Make sure to check our current hours of operation as they change throughout the year.

Do you offer storage for my own kayak or SUP?

No. Unfortunately, we do not have space available.

Do you sell drinks?

We encourage you to bring your own beverages in non-glass, reusable containers. If you forget, we sell cold bottled water for $2 and Gatorade for $3.

How do I get to Rowing Dock?

Given limited parking options throughout Zilker Park, we heavily encourage ride-sharing, biking, or public transit via CapMetro. If you do plan to drive, there will be limited parking on a first come, first serve basis in the Rowing Dock parking lot, under the Mopac bridge and a paid parking option in the gravel lot just East of Mopac off Stratford ($7/vehicle). We ask that all are respectful of our neighbors including the Nature and Science Center, and do not park in their bus/handicap lane. Due to an increase in theft in the area, please do not leave any valuables in your car.

Can I fish using a Rowing Dock boat?

Yes, but you must bring your own fishing rod, crate for tackle and gear, and anchor. Our kayaks do have a rod holder attachment.

Can I launch my boat from Rowing Dock?

No, due to liability reasons, you are not able to launch from our dock. There are a variety of public dock launch points with ample parking and easy access, including: Texas Rowing Center, Austin High Launch, and Festival Beach.

Do you sell used boats and if so, how much do they cost?

Yes, we sell our used SUPs and kayaks on a seasonal basis, typically during late Fall or Early Spring. We will advertise each sale on our social channels. Typical prices for used boats range from $200 - $600/vessel, depending on the age and condition.

Are kayaks safe? Do I need to have experience?

Our kayaks are very stable boats and are easy to use for a wide range of ages and sizes. Fear not! Our knowledgeable dock attendants will help you choose the right boat.

Can my child rent a paddle board?

Are dogs allowed?

Dogs and other pets are permitted at this time. Please note, given the history of poisonous toxins found in the blue-green algae in Lady Bird Lake, if you decide to bring your pet, you are doing so at your own risk. The City of Austin is recommending that all pet owners do not let their pets/dogs swim or drink the water in Lady Bird Lake.All pet owners will be asked to sign a pet waiver that details the history of the algae and the current status. For reference, our pet waiver is here.To learn more about the history of toxic algae in Lady Bird Lake, please visit: austintexas.gov/algae As a courtesy to others, all dogs must remain on the leash and under owners control at all times.

Will I fall off of my paddle board?

Do you offer deals for frequent visitors?

We sure do! Customers who want to paddle on the regular can purchase one of our Regulars Cards at the dock or online HERE. Regulars cards are $135 and are good for 10 hours of paddling.

Do I need a reservation?

You do not need a reservation for regular rentals which we offer on first come, first served basis. We do offer reservations for groups that are 10+. For more information about group outings and reservations, visit our Group Rentals Page. .

Do you have an All-Day Rate?

We do offer an all-day rate, but it is one-time use, meaning you can not start your rental, leave the dock for lunch, and then return. Our "all-day" rate is available for SUPs, single kayaks, double kayaks and canoes. We do not offer an all-day rate for our pedal kayaks.

How does the all-day rate work?

When checking in, you can choose to pay for 1 hour, 2 hours, or for the all-day rate. If you choose the all-day rate, you pay the max fee upfront and can paddle as long as you want. Just make sure you return the boats and close your ticket before we close. If you aren't sure whether you want the all-day rate upfront, you can still choose one or two hours upfront and if you end up staying out longer, charges will accrue until you reach the all-day max pricing. Please note that the all-day rate is not a come-and-go option. You can stay out on the water all day, but once you return the boats back to the dock, the rental ends. We don't have an option where you can leave for lunch and come back, etc. **The all-day rate does not apply to Pedal Kayaks.

Do You Have a Military Discount?

We do! We offer 20% off regular rentals for Military personnel 7 days a week. Police Officers and Firefighters are also eligible for the 20% discount. We offer specials on Veterans Day as well.

What is Yappy Hour and College Day?

Yappy Hour and College Day are specials we offer each week. Every Tuesday is Yappy Hour and all pet owners who bring their pet with them will get their second hour free. Please be advised that due to the toxic algae found in Lady Bird Lake, you will be asked to sign a pet waiver. Every Wednesday is College Day. Bring your college ID and get 50% off any regular rental.

Pedal Kayak FAQs

How is a Pedal Kayak Different Than Regular Kayak Rental?

Customers use their legs to navigate through the water, instead of using their arms to paddle. This is a great option for people who want to be hands-free and get in a nice leg workout.

Are Pedal Kayaks Safe?

Pedal kayaks are safe and easy to use for people of all skill sets.

Do you have to be a certain height to rent a pedal kayak?

We recommend that renters are 5 ft tall or more in order to safely use a pedal kayak.

Is a reservation required to rent a pedal kayak?

At this time, we are not offering reservations for pedal kayaks. They can be rented on a first come, first serve basis.

What is the longest time I can be on the water in a pedal kayak?

You can rent our pedal kayaks for as long as you like. We do not have an all-day rate for our pedal kayaks since we do have a limited quantity and want to ensure as many people are able to experience them as possible.

Can Kids Rent Pedal Kayaks?

We do not recommend pedal kayaks for kids under 5 ft tall.

Are Dogs Allowed on Pedal Kayaks

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on pedal kayaks. Dogs and other pets are permitted on our other vessels at this time. Please note, given the history of poisonous toxins found in the blue-green algae in Lady Bird Lake, if you decide to bring your pet, you are doing so at your own risk. The City of Austin is still recommending that all pet owners do not let their pets/dogs swim or drink the water in Lady Bird Lake.All pet owners will be asked to sign a pet waiver that details the history of the algae and the current status. For reference, our pet waiver is here.To learn more about the history of toxic algae in Lady Bird Lake, please visit: austintexas.gov/algae

How many people can fit in a pedal kayak?

Pedal kayaks can only accomodate one person. If you would like to paddle with a partner, we recommend a double kayak or a canoe.

Pricing, Deals & Discounts

How does the all-day pricing work?

All-day prices apply for our canoes, kayaks and paddle board rentals. We collect payment for the first hour of rentals up front. If you stay out on the water longer than an hour, additional charges will accrue and are prorated by the half hour up to a max price per boat based on our all-day rate. For clarification, after you reach the all day rate price, additional charges do NOT accrue. You will pay your remaining balance when you check your boats back in at the returns window. We do not offer all-day rates for our pedal kayaks.

Do you have an all-day rate?

We do have an all-day rate for people that want the flexibility to paddle as long as they please. Please note, the all-day rate is specific to one-time use only. That means once you bring the boat back to the dock, the rental is over. You cannot return the boat and go back out later the same day. Additionally, we do not refund unused time. Our all-day rate does not apply for pedal kayaks.

Do you offer deals and discounts for frequent visitors?

We sure do! Customers who want to paddle on the regular can purchase one of our Regulars Cards at the dock or online. Regulars cards are $135 and are good for 10 hours of paddling which can be applied to any any of our canoes, single/double kayaks or paddle boards (does not include our pedal kayaks).

Do you have a discount for military, fire and police personnel?

We do! We offer a 20% off Hero Discount for kayaks, canoes and paddle board rentals for Military personnel seven days a week. Austin Police and Fire are also eligible for the 20% discount. We offer specials on Veterans Day as well.

Do you offer discounts for college students?

Yes, Every Wednesday is College Day. Bring your college ID and get 50% off any regular rental (kayaks, canoes and paddle boards). Additionally, we offer discounts for college students who are booking large group reservations. If interested, inquire at manager@rowingdock.com

Do you sell gift certificates?

Yes, please visit https://www.rowingdock.com/gift-certificates for a full list of our available gift certificates.

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes, based on the group size and need, we can provide special group discounts. To learn about our offerings, please visit our Groups page and fill out an inquiry form based on the activity you're most interested in.

Pets

Are dogs allowed?

Dogs and other pets are permitted at this time. Please note, given the history of poisonous toxins found in the blue-green algae in Lady Bird Lake, if you decide to bring your pet, you are doing so at your own risk. The City of Austin is still recommending that all pet owners do not let their pets/dogs swim or drink the water in Lady Bird Lake.All pet owners will be asked to sign a pet waiver that details the history of the algae and the current status. For reference, our pet waiver is here.To learn more about the history of toxic algae in Lady Bird Lake, please visit: austintexas.gov/algae

Do you offer life jackets for dogs or do we need to bring our own?

Yes. We rent dog life jackets for $3 each.

Do you offer any discounts for people that have pets?

Yes, generally we do. Every Tuesday is Yappy Hour. All pet owners who bring their pet down on Tuesdays will get their second hour free.

What boats can I rent if I am bring my pet?

You can rent our RUFF sups, single and double kayaks or canoes. Please note, given the history of poisonous toxins found in the blue-green algae in Lady Bird Lake, if you decide to bring your pet, you are doing so at your own risk. The City of Austin is still recommending that all pet owners do not let their pets/dogs swim or drink the water in Lady Bird Lake.All pet owners will be asked to sign a pet waiver that details the history of the algae and the current status. For reference, our pet waiver is here.To learn more about the history of toxic algae in Lady Bird Lake, please visit: austintexas.gov/algae

Do you expect algae to come back annually?

Yes - based on the history over the last few years, we do expect it will be an annual occurrence. For the latest information on algae in Lady Bird Lake, please visit: http://austintexas.gov/page/algae

Events

What is Yappy Hour and College Day?

College Day and Yappy Hour are specials we offer each week. Every Wednesday is College Day. Bring your college ID and get 50% off any regular rental. Every Tuesday (during non algae-season), we offer Yappy Hour - all pet owners who bring their pet down will get their second hour free.

Do you offer lake clean up days?

Yes, check out the happenings page and take a peek at the Kayak Clean Up Crew. We provide weekly clean ups every Saturday, which are free to the public and require advance RSVP from meet up.

Are your events ticketed or first come, first serve?

Each event is different. Currently, our full moon paddles will be ticketed as well as specialty events like our Fireworks July 4th paddle and Paddle for Puppies are ticketed. Yappy Hour and College Day are first come first served.

Can I bring a pet that is not a dog and receive the yappy hour discount?

Yes, you may - but please make sure to read up on the algae on the City of Austin website.

Can I bring my cooler to ticketed events?

Sure thing, feel free to bring along whatever you like. Keep in mind there is limited space inside of boats, so small coolers generally work better. Please do not bring any glass.

Do I need to wear my life jacket during events?

While life jackets do not need to be worn during day-time events, we do require life jackets to be worn during after hours events. Regardless, life jackets are always recommended.

Groups

Can my group show up without a reservation if we have 10 people or less?

Yes, on weekdays we can accomodate large groups without a reservation, although we always appreciate a heads up as volumes are busier. On weekends, if you have a party of less than 10, we recommend arriving early in the morning. We also accept reservations for parties larger than 10 on weekdays and weekends but they must be made days in advance. To book, visit our group reservations page.

How many people can you accommodate at Rowing Dock?

We can rent to groups as small as 10 and as large as 300. If you do have a large group, please inquire for our buy out rates and email manager@rowingdock.com.

How long can we use the picnic area and how many people do the tables hold?

You can use the picnic area for the duration of your event. Depending on your group's size, our tables can fit up to 40 if you are the only group that has an event for that day. We will have it prepped and ready for your arrival.

Do I have to pay upfront to book a group experience?

A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to secure all reservations and hold your group’s timeslot, and you will be billed this amount immediately upon booking. Final payment is due the Monday before your event and will be processed automatically using the card on file unless a different payment method has been coordinated in advance. If you have changes to your final headcount, they must be submitted in writing one full business day before your final billing date.

Can I reschedule my group reservation if something comes up?

To reschedule your outing at no additional charge, a written request must be received at least 1 business day prior to your final payment date.

What happens if people in my party are running late?

Group paddle schedules are strictly adhered to. Hosts must arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your event to meet with your dedicated attendant. Rowing Dock is not responsible for late arrivals or late starting times. Your paddle ending time will not be adjusted to accommodate late guests. Encourage your guests to arrive early.

What happens if the weather looks bad for my upcoming reservation or the experience is cancelled due to weather?

Texas weather is consistently dry and hot with very mild winter conditions. Rowing Dock considers the following conditions acceptable for paddling: Temperatures above 50 degrees, winds below 17mph, light rain, overcast skies and high waters with a flow rate below 4000 CFS. In the event of inclement weather, you may reschedule your outing 48 hours prior to the outing at no additional cost. If you are unable to reschedule your event or if Rowing Dock cancels your event due to inclement weather, you will receive a full refund minus a 10% guided paddle staff retainer fee.

Group Reservations

Can my group show up without a reservation if we have 10 people or less?

If I book a group reservation, what is included?

There are several perks to booking a group reservation, including but not limited to guaranteed reservation and equipment, an expedited check-in process plus an attendant to check you in, exclusive use of our picnic area for those into snacks and things and 20% off merch.

How many people can you accommodate at Rowing Dock?

We can rent to groups as small as 10 and as large as 300. If you do have a large group, please inquire for our buy out rates and email manager@rowingdock.com.

How long can we use the picnic area and how many people do the tables hold?

Can I reschedule my group reservation if something comes up?

To reschedule your outing at no additional charge, a written request must be received at least 1 business day prior to your final payment date.

What happens if people in my party are running late?

What happens if the weather looks bad for my upcoming reservation or the experience is cancelled due to weather?

How long can we stay out on the water?

We book groups for 1 hour and 2 hour time slots.

Will I have a guide if I book a group reservation?

No, our group reservations do not have guides. See our "Guided Tours" page if you would like a dedicated guide.

Can we rent multiple types of boats for a group reservation?

Yes, you are able to rent stand up paddleboards, kayaks and canoes. If your group desires to travel together, we recommend renting a mix of kayaks/canoes or stand up paddleboards, as they all go at different speeds.

Private Guided Tours

Can my group show up without a reservation if we have 10 people or less for a guided paddle?

No, all guided tours/paddles require a reservation. You can make a reservation for a guided paddle for groups of 2 or more.

If I book a guided paddle, what is included?

There are several perks to booking a guided paddle, including but not limited to guaranteed reservation and equipment, an expedited check-in process, dedicated dock attendants and guides throughout experience, free splash bag rentals, complimentary water or Gatorade per person (it’s important to hydrate y’all)!, exclusive use of our picnic area for those into snacks and things and 20% off merch.

How long can we use the picnic area and how many people do the tables hold?

Can I reschedule my guided paddle if something comes up?

To reschedule your outing at no additional charge, a written request must be received at least 1 business day prior to your final payment date.

What happens if people in my party are running late?

What happens if the weather looks bad for my upcoming reservation or the experience is cancelled due to weather?

Texas weather is consistently dry and hot with very mild winter conditions. Rowing Dock considers the following conditions acceptable for paddling: temperatures above 50 degrees, winds below 17mph, light rain, overcast skies and high waters with a flow rate below 4000 CFS. In the event of inclement weather, you may reschedule your outing 48 hours prior to the outing at no additional cost. If you are unable to reschedule your event or if Rowing Dock cancels your event due to inclement weather, you will receive a full refund minus a 10% guided paddle staff retainer fee.

What type of guided paddles do you offer?

We provide three tour options - our guided bat tour (seasonally), our 'Journey to the Springs' guided tour, and our 'Round Red Bud Isle guided tour.

How long are guided paddles?

Our typical guided paddles are about 2.5 hours. But, for our bat paddles, the bats dictate our timing so plan to be on the water anywhere between two and three hours.

How many people can go on a guided paddle?

We can accommodate groups of all sizes. We recommend groups of 2-12, however, we can add additional guides to accommodate larger groups.

Is there a minimum age you have to be to go on a guided paddle?

All ages are welcome. If your group is taking out SUPs, children under the age of 16 are required to have a parent or guardian on the water with them. For kayaks and canoes, children under the age of 13 are required to have a parent or guardian on the water.

Can you bring your pets on a guided paddle?

We do not recommend bringing pets on guided paddle experiences.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on your eco and historical tour?

The animals really dictate things, but there is a high likelihood you'll see turtles, ducks, a variety of different types of birds and potentially snakes. You might also see schools of fish and/or fish jumping from the water.

Can I book a guided tour if I have less than six people?

Yes, you can book a guided tour if you have 2+ people.

Can people take different boats out for guided paddles?

Yes, but we do recommend renting the same boat if you'd like to all travel at the same speed.

Teambuilding & Games

Can my group show up without a reservation if we have 10 people or less for teambuilding and games?

No, to book a teambuilding and games experience, you must have a reservation. Please fill out the form fill on the teambuilding and games page to inquire.

If I book a group reservation for teambuilding and games, what is included?

There are several perks to booking a reservation for teambuilding and games, including but not limited to guaranteed reservation and equipment, an expedited check-in process, dedicated dock attendants and guides throughout experience, free splash bag rentals, a complimentary water or Gatorade per person, exclusive use of our picnic area for those into snacks and things and 20% off merch.

How long can we use the picnic area and how many people do the tables hold?

Can I reschedule my group reservation for teambuilding and games if something comes up?

To reschedule your outing at no additional charge, a written request must be received at least 1 business day prior to your final payment date.

What happens if people in my party are running late?

What happens if the weather looks bad for my upcoming reservation or the experience is cancelled due to weather?

What is the average cost for teambuilding and games?

Since every experience is customized based on the individual group needs, please inquire via the form fill on our teambuilding and games page and we'll get back to you with a quote based on your goals.

We are interested in teambuilding activities but don't want to get too wet. Do you get soaked?

We can customize the experience based on your desired goals. If your group prefers games that are focused on mental strength, teamwork and collaboration, we can create activities around that goal that are less likely to involve people getting super wet.

Do you do kids birthday parties?

Yes, we have so many different super fun activities for kids on the water, although we will likely work with you to ensure there are "parent guardians" who join for additional supervision depending on ages.

Corporate Experiences

Can my group show up without a reservation if we have 10 people or less?

Yes, on weekdays we can accommodate groups of 14 or less without a reservation, although we always appreciate a heads up as volumes are busier. You could shoot us a note at info@rowingdock.com with your party size and estimated time of arrival or email us for tips on how to expedite your check in process. If you are a larger party coming on a weekend, it is best to book a reservation via our "Groups" page. Guided paddles and our teambuilding and games activities must be reserved in advance.

If I book a group reservation, what is included?

There are several perks to booking a group reservation, including but not limited to guaranteed use of equipment, an expedited check-in process, a dedicated dock attendant and guides throughout experience, free splash bag rentals, complimentary water or Gatorade per person , exclusive use of our picnic area, 20% off merch and access to our full size parking lot.

How many people can you accommodate at Rowing Dock?

We can accommodate parties of 10 to parties of 300. Very large groups could require a partial or full dock buyout. To inquire, fill out the form above.

If I book a reservation, guided paddle or teambuilding experience, is a deposit required?

Yes, a 25% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. Deposit invoices will be sent via email and will be payable online. Final payment is due the Monday before your event and will be processed automatically using the card on file unless a different payment method has been coordinated in advance. If you have changes to your final headcount, they must be submitted in writing one full business day before your final billing date.

How long can we use the picnic area and how many people do the tables hold?

Can I reschedule my group reservation if something comes up?

To reschedule your outing at no additional charge, a written request must be received at least 1 business day prior to your final payment date.

What happens if people in my party are running late?

What happens if the weather looks bad for my upcoming reservation or the experience is cancelled due to weather?

Do you have a photographer or videographer if we want to capture our outing?

We can arrange for a photographer and/or videographer to capture your experience on the water at an additional cost. When filling out the form fill, we recommend including that information in the "anything else we should know" section.

How long is the average experience?

It really depends on what you're looking to do. Experiences can be as short as an hour or as long as a half day if interested. Most corporate groups book for 2 - 2.5 hours.

Can we bring food on-site?

Yes, you may. We do not have refrigerated storage though, so do recommend coordinating with a caterer or UberEats to drop off food when your full group is ready to enjoy the experience.

For teambuilding and games, can you customize the content and activities based on the industry of focus?

Yes, we are happy to work with an event coordinator to customize activities around particular content topics based on what your team is interested in doing.

Can we bring alcohol?

No alcohol is permitted while you are on site.

Can you arrange for transportation to and from our location?

We are happy to provide the names of transportation companies to reach out to, but this is not something we typically coordinate.

How large is your parking lot?

We can accommodate roughly 40 cars and there are additional parking options along Stratford drive.

Can we do a private event?

Yes, we can accommodate private events. Pricing ranges based on size of the event, event needs, time on-site and weekday/weekend. To inquire about a private event (dock buyout), please email manager@rowingdock.com

Reservation Policy

Can I make a reservation?

At this time, we are only offering reservations for groups of 10 or more. To learn about our groups offerings, visit our "Groups Overview" page.

Are reservations required?

No, we offer rentals on a first come, first serve basis.

Can I book online before I come?

No, at this time, we are offering walk up rentals only. We can accommodate reservations for large parties of 10+. Please visit our "Group Reservations" page which will walk you through the process for booking online.

What if I make a group reservation and you close due to weather?

If Rowing Dock closes due to inclement weather, we will refund your reservation in full.

Still can’t find what you’re looking for?

Send us a note and we will get back to you as soon as possible!

FAQS

FAQs

What to know before you go

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SUP FAQS

General FAQs

Pedal Kayak FAQs

Pricing, Deals & Discounts

Pets

Events

Groups

Group Reservations

Private Guided Tours

Teambuilding & Games

Corporate Experiences

Reservation Policy

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