Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What Should I Wear For My Tour?
A: You will get "up close and personal" with nature and the elements on your tour. With a sit-on-top kayak, you will get wet from the waist down, so do wear clothing that can handle some water. With a SUP rental or tour, be prepared to get completely wet if you happen to fall. Use common sense about the predicted temperature and wind conditions for the day. In the heat of the summer, wear a bathing suit. If it's cool and breezy, wear a windbreaker.

Here's a list of other things to bring:

• Towel- usually for after the trip
• Sunglasses- with a retainer is a good idea
• Sunscreen- don't forget legs and feet!
• Insect Repellent- bugs usually aren't bad, but good to have it just in case.
• Sandals or water-friendly shoes (Crocks, Tevas, Keens, Aqua-shoe)
• Waterproof camera/ case for smartphone (we loan cases out on first-come/first-serve basis)
• T-shirt (sold at Aqua Trails)
• Hat- the wider rim, the better
• Re-Usable Water Bottle- we provide bottled water as needed, but we try to reduce single-use plastic

Q: Do I need experience to take a tour or rent a kayak/SUP?

A:  Experience is not required.  We pride ourselves on our instruction before heading out on the water.  We are happy to advise a beginner if conditions are suitable to head out as well.  

Q: Is a kayak tour good for families?

A:  Yes!  Our morning tour at 9:30 is a bit long for young children (under 8).  Double kayaks help share the workload, but remember, having a small child in a double on a longer trip can be a lot of work for the adult.  We do offer a shorter 2:00pm tour designed for beginners and families with smaller kids.

Q:  We want to rent kayaks and SUPs as a family.  What ages are appropriate for particular gear?

A:  Conditions vary, but on a fairly calm day we suggest kids under 12 double up in a tandem kayak with an older paddler.  A single kayak can be too much for younger kids.  SUP rentals are for 12 year olds and up.  But, feel free to mix kayaks and SUPs to keep everyone happy!

Q:  When we rent a kayak or SUP, where can we go?

A:  We launch you into the cove of Cape May Harbor where it is beautiful, fairly quiet and often only used by sailboats.  US Coast Guard Base is off-limits and is to the east of our location just past the Yacht Club.  Most folks head toward the Cape Island creek marshes past the small bridge under Rte 109.  That area has the most wildlife and natural vistas.  Some people enjoy a stop at the Lobster House (Schooner) for a snack or drink along the way.  The Cape May canal is off-limits.  The calmest, quietist time is usually mornings during weekdays.  We are happy to help show you where to go once you are here.

Q: Do your guides and staff accept tips?  If so how much?

A:  Tips are always greatly appreciated.  If your feel your guide or rental agent gave you great service, most patrons tip between 15-20%.  Please understand that nobody expects tips, but we do strive to provide outstanding service.  Thanks!

Q:  Can I take a kayak on a SUP tour?

A:  Yes!  Kayaks have no trouble keeping up on a SUP tour.  Conversly, you cannot take a SUP on a kayak tour.  Those tours go further and the boards have trouble keeping up with the kayakers.

Q:  Can I bring my own kayak on a tour?  

A:  Usually... it depends on the kayak.  We take 13 foot long or longer kayaks on our tours.  If your kayak is under 12 feet long we will likley ask you to take one of our kayaks at the normal tour price.  We do not permit inflatable kayaks on our tours.  If your kayak is deemed able to keep up on our tour, we offer a discount for not needing one of our kayaks.

Q:  Do you have an ATM on site?

A:  Sorry, no we do not.  The closest ATM is at the Texas Ave WAWA store about 3/4 mile away.