Downtown Boathouse050

The Downtown Boathouse is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to providing free public access to the Hudson River in New York City. The Boathouse owns about 50 kayaks which are available to the public, under supervision, on weekends and holidays from mid-May through mid-October.

The kayaks may be used in the local embayment areas directly in front of the Boathouse facilities. You'll be provided with brief instruction and the necessary safety equipment, and Boathouse volunteers monitor your progress. Paddling is restricted to the embayment, which is large enough to give you a taste of the open river, but still safely protected from currents. You must sign a liability waiver and agree to Boathouse rules.

Most of the boats are self bailing, sit-on-top kayaks. Your feet and the seat of your pants will get wet, so you should wear shorts or a swimsuit or bring something to change into. A changing area, portable toilets, and a hose to rinse off with are available on-site, but there are no showers or real bathrooms.

A parent must sign a waiver for any child under 18, and the Boathouse people prefer the parent to have seen the activity before signing. Kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (double kayak). Kids ages 16 to 18 may go solo on a kayak if accompanied by a parent or guardian on another kayak.

Membership is voluntary and is not required to participate in any of the programs, or to volunteer to help out. Members receive no exclusive benefits, other than the privilege of voting in Boathouse elections. Membership is open to all for a $50 annual, tax-deductible, donation, which supports free access to non-motorized boating.

Call 646.613.0740 for basic information about locations, hours, and programs; more complete information is available online.