Information for Reserved Custom Groups

Custom Group Paddle Tour posing for a picture all holding paddles and sitting on and around kayaks.

What do I need to do before arriving?

What to Wear & Bring

  • Shoes should be worn at the Boathouse and on the dock. Sandals, flip flops or foam clogs are ideal for paddling.
  • Clothing appropriate for the temperature of the air and the water. We recommend synthetic clothing made of wicking fabrics like nylon or polyester. On cool or breezy days, you will want to wear a fleece and/or rain jacket.
  • Sunglasses with a strap or float
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Snack
  • NOTE: If you bring your phone, electronics, medications, or valuable personal items, we recommend keeping them in a waterproof, floating case, or borrowing a dry bag from us. Alternately, you can leave them in your vehicle or with our staff on shore. 
  • Our rule of thumb is: don't bring anything in the kayak that you don't want to get wet or sink to the bottom of the river.
  • PFDs (personal flotation devices) will be provided for each person and are required to be worn at all times while in our boats. 

Meeting Location

Meet at the Bellegarde Boathouse and Kayak Center, 500 Pawtucket Boulevard, Lowell, MA 01854.  

Get directions to the Bellegarde Boathouse and Kayak Center.

Parking is available for free in the adjacent parking area for the Vandenberg Esplanade along the shoulder of Pawtucket Boulevard. 

Itinerary to Expect for Custom Groups

  1. Please meet on time or a few minutes early at the Kayak Center, which is the riverside bay door. Staff will typically wait for the whole group to arrive before starting. 
  2. Spend about 10-20 minutes meeting, confirming paperwork, filling water bottles and distributing gear (paddles, life jackets). This will go faster if everyone arrives on time and has submitted a waiver in advance.
  3. Spend about 15 minutes on basic kayak or canoe instruction, safety briefing and fitting people to kayaks.
  4. Launch on the water! Groups generally tour upstream, possibly including Stony Brook. Your instructors will share information about the area and paddling techniques throughout the tour. 
  5. Most groups return to the Boathouse between 5-10 minutes before your group's end time. Return gear and enjoy a quick reflection. Feel free to visit the restrooms before you head home.  
a tandem kayak floats in the river watching the sunset with upward rays

What if it's raining on our reserved day?

  • Don't worry! A little rain doesn't stop the adventure! In fact, paddling in the rain can be very peaceful. The river is often quieter, the water is typically calm, and it's a unique way to experience the outdoors.  
  • In the case of thunderstorms or high wind, we will contact your group organizer the day before or the day of your trip if conditions require cancellation or rescheduling.  

What kind of boats can I choose?

  • We have solo kayaks, tandem kayaks, and canoes available for you to choose. We have a selection of sizes for most bodies. It is up to you to decide what boats you would like to take, and you can decide when you are here. 
  • SUPs are generally not recommended to combine with kayaks or canoes during custom group tours, as they move much slower and the group won't be able to stay together. 
  • Any participant in a custom group with their own personal kayak is welcome to bring it if they choose. 

Physical Exertion Level and Prerequisites

  • Expect low to moderate physical exertion, varying with river conditions and wind speed and your personal physical condition.
  • Staff will be very happy to help you succeed on the water! Custom groups typically have two to three staff, and we will make sure your whole group has a great time and stays together.  
  • No previous experience required.