What is the water like?
We are located at the confluence of the West River and the Connecticut River. Seven miles south of us on the Connecticut River is the Vernon Dam which controls the water level and current. Most days, except after heavy rain, there is hardly any current and paddling on both rivers is like being on a lake. On days when the Connecticut River has a strong current, the West River still offers peaceful paddling in a large protected area called the Retreat Meadows that is a short paddle and is protected and calm.
Do I need previous experience?
Most renters have never been in a canoe or kayak so experience is not necessary. The water is calm enough that new paddlers will have an easy time getting around and exploring. We get the boats in and out of the water for you so you just have to get yourself in and out, but we are always close by to assist if needed.
Do we get shuttled up stream?
We do not offer a shuttle service but we do allow you to transport boats off property if you wish to do so. Most paddlers choose our hourly rates and paddle directly at our location since we are on a large area of flat, calm water.
Do you rent motor boats or jet skis?
Unfortunately we do not rent motorized boats, just canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. Most states, including Vermont, require all motorized boat operators to have a boating license, including Vermont. You will see personal motor boats on the Connecticut River but the closest rental business is High Country Marine in Wilmington, Vermont.
Are dogs allowed?
Absolutely! Just be sure to clean up after them and keep them on a leash until they are in the boat with you. We do not provide flotation vests for four-legged friends, so you may want your own. Dogs are not allowed on our paddle boards as they are inflatable and can easily be punctured by dog teeth and claws.
Can we reserve boats?
We do not take reservations, all rentals are walk-in and we have a large rental fleet.
Do you provide dry bags?
We do not provide dry bags but we are happy to hold your car keys or mobile device in our office while you are out. In a pinch, a zip-lock bag works great for phones, wallet, and keys if you want to take them with you and keep them dry.
Do you accommodate large groups?
Yes, just give us a call and we will be happy to accommodate you and your party. We have a lot of boats available!
We are located at the confluence of the West River and the Connecticut River. Seven miles south of us on the Connecticut River is the Vernon Dam which controls the water level and current. Most days, except after heavy rain, there is hardly any current and paddling on both rivers is like being on a lake. On days when the Connecticut River has a strong current, the West River still offers peaceful paddling in a large protected area called the Retreat Meadows that is a short paddle and is protected and calm.
Do I need previous experience?
Most renters have never been in a canoe or kayak so experience is not necessary. The water is calm enough that new paddlers will have an easy time getting around and exploring. We get the boats in and out of the water for you so you just have to get yourself in and out, but we are always close by to assist if needed.
Do we get shuttled up stream?
We do not offer a shuttle service but we do allow you to transport boats off property if you wish to do so. Most paddlers choose our hourly rates and paddle directly at our location since we are on a large area of flat, calm water.
Do you rent motor boats or jet skis?
Unfortunately we do not rent motorized boats, just canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. Most states, including Vermont, require all motorized boat operators to have a boating license, including Vermont. You will see personal motor boats on the Connecticut River but the closest rental business is High Country Marine in Wilmington, Vermont.
Are dogs allowed?
Absolutely! Just be sure to clean up after them and keep them on a leash until they are in the boat with you. We do not provide flotation vests for four-legged friends, so you may want your own. Dogs are not allowed on our paddle boards as they are inflatable and can easily be punctured by dog teeth and claws.
Can we reserve boats?
We do not take reservations, all rentals are walk-in and we have a large rental fleet.
Do you provide dry bags?
We do not provide dry bags but we are happy to hold your car keys or mobile device in our office while you are out. In a pinch, a zip-lock bag works great for phones, wallet, and keys if you want to take them with you and keep them dry.
Do you accommodate large groups?
Yes, just give us a call and we will be happy to accommodate you and your party. We have a lot of boats available!
