Get Up & Go! Boats Ahoy!

Life in Massachusetts offers many recreational activities – including easy access to boating during the beautiful summer weather months. No ocean view outside your apartment home? No problem! A taste of the nautical life awaits—no kayak, canoe or jet ski needed! This week’s “Get Up & Go!” provides suggestions for nearby facilities where you can enjoy boating on a lake, river or the ocean—of course! Whether you are an experienced boater or a novice, there’s nothing like a day on the water when it comes to family fun or recreational pleasure with friends. When you go, don’t forget to tag a digital snapshot on our Facebook page!

Nantasket Kayaks – Located at Steamboat Wharf Marina in Hull less than 30 minutes from The Commons, guests here rent kayaks and standup paddleboards (SUP) for use in the Weir River Estuary and access to the Boston Harbor Islands. The amazing World’s End in Hingham is also accessible via kayak . Novices and beginners take note: calm estuary waters offer a safe, scenic spot to perfect kayaking skills or give SUP a try!

Fishing fanatics will love the Nantasket Kayaks’ “Redfish Anglers” service, which allows kayakers to fish from deck-mounted rod holders. Some of the larger bass are rumored to give fisherman free kayak rides!

REI – Hingham’s REI Store at the Derby Street Shoppes offers an Outdoor School that includes standup paddle boarding (SUP) and kayak tours.  This month and in September, the shop is offering a “Full Moon” paddle tour (August 10^th and September 7^th) where, weather permitting, an entourage of kayakers and SUPs will take an evening tour of the Charles River Peninsula after completion of introductory kayaking lessons. Visit REI’s website for a full listing as well as times and pricing. 

Plymouth Water Sports – Fun is the operative word at Plymouth Watersport, located on Town Wharf Drive on the harbor. Especially when it comes to the single, double, and triple jet ski rentals that PWS offers to guests. Instructions and life vests are included in all rentals, but drivers must be 18 years of age with a driver's license (any age can ride as a passenger.)  PWS offers an amazing “Fly Board” rental with Jet Skis (see picture below) that is all the rage in water sports. Users literally fly “Iron Man” style up to 25 feet in the air while leaping headfirst through waves like dolphins!

Boston Sailing Center – The Sailing Center gives beginners a chance to learn sailing in the open waters of Boston Harbor. In addition to free Sailing Open Houses (including 30-minute sail cruise around the harbor), BSC’s Learn-To-Sail program starts covers nautical sailing and on-the-water experience. The program offers students use of boats outside of class as well! 

Paddle Boston – This canoe and kayak rental service has five different locations along the Charles River in Boston, Cambridge, Newton and Waltham. Offering guided tours, lessons and rentals, Paddle Boston also has Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP). Check out their SUP yoga classes, which provide a full workout on the water!

Courageous Sailing – Courageous Sailing (CS) offers another opportunity to learn to sail on the Boston Harbor but has special focus on children and families.  Visit their website for a full listing of courses, camps and activities.