Kayak & Paddling Rentals

Community Boating offers an opportunity to view the great city of Boston from an angle rarely seen. Rent a kayak and explore the Charles River Basin and Frederick Law Olmstead esplanade lagoon system while enjoying breathtaking views of historic Back Bay, Beacon Hill, MIT, and the Zakim and Longfellow bridges. This is a can’t miss experience for both out of town visitors and longtime residents alike.

Two-hour kayak (single or tandem) and stand-up-paddle-boards rentals are available for $34 per person.

Note that membership includes Kayaks and SUPs at no cost (not including Wicked Basic Sailing Pass). Please review our members’ guest policy if you are planning to take non-member guests paddling with you.

Paddling rentals are limited to the Storrow Lagoon on red flag (high wind) days.

2024 Season Weekdays Weekends
April 1 – June 16 1:00 pm to 30 minutes before sunset 9:00 am to 30 minutes before sunset
June 17 – August 23* 3:00 pm to 30 minutes before sunset 9:00 am to 30 minutes before sunset
August 24 – October 31 1:00 pm to 30 minutes before sunset 9:00 am to 30 minutes before sunset

All rentals must be off the water 30 minutes before sunset.

*Rentals will be closed on Wednesday July 3rd and on Thursday July 4th

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do rentals cost?

Our kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are $34 per person for two hours.

Can I reserve kayaks or stand-up-paddleboards?

Kayak and SUP rentals are available exclusively on a walk-up basis. We do not take reservations.

Where can I store my stuff?

Day lockers are available for use, although you must provide a lock. Locks may be purchased in the Front Office for $5. All items you bring, including cell phones, bags, and shoes, must be stored in a day locker or brought out on the water; we are unable to store any possessions for you.

What kind of kayaks are available?

Our kayaks are sit-on-top kayaks. You will get wet.

Do I need to bring my own life jacket?

Lifejackets are provided and must be worn at all times.

Where can I paddle?

Paddling is limited to the basin between the Mass Ave. bridge and the Longfellow bridge, as well as the lagoon system between the Esplanade and the small islands. Paddling will be limited to the lagoon system on high-wind days.

Can I bring food and drink out on the river?

Food and drink is welcome on all of our boats. However, we do ask that you clean up after yourself. The consumption of alcoholic beverages on CBI property or boats is not allowed.

What about bad weather?

Our dockmaster-on-duty may set additional restrictions for watercraft based on the weather conditions, powerboat boat traffic, special events, incidents, etc. This may include a restricted paddling area or a suspension of rentals.

What are the restrictions for children under 18?
Age Restrictions
Age 9 and Below Must be 40 inches tall and in a double kayak with their parent or guardian at all times.
Ages 10-15 Must be 40 inches tall and accompanied by a parent or guardian who is on the water providing direct supervision at all times. Kids may kayak in a separate kayak than their parents.
Ages 16-17 May kayak on their own with signed permission from a parent or guardian.
Do you offer corporate paddling outings?

We offer special discount rates for corporate group outings of 20 people or more. Kayaks may be reserved for $17 per person for two hours. Please note that any groups between 10 and 20 are still able to reserve kayaks for the regular rental rate of $34 per person. We need at least two weeks notice to ensure that we have enough kayaks available and can only host these outings on weekdays. Email [email protected] if you are interested or have any questions.