We offer custom tours and programs for diverse groups with a variety of outcomes in mind. Whether you want to take your family and friends on a sunset tour, teach your scout troop about water safety and environmental stewardship or provide a team building experience for your office, we have something for everyone!
We will typically base the lesson plan and itinerary off of our standard programs, but with a twist for your group and their needs on the Merrimack River. If you are looking for something completely new, we may be able to do that too! Custom programs may be run from early June through late September.
Maximum group size limit is typically 21 people. But, talk to us if you have a bigger group!
Minimum custom group size is six or more. Groups smaller than six people are encouraged to register for a pre-scheduled tour, or may rent boats on their own during our normal operations.
Please contact us about your group with our Kayak Center Custom Group Request Form and how we can set up a great program that meets your needs!
| Program Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard 2-Hour Program | $30 per person |
| Standard 3-Hour Program | $40 per person |
| River Cleanup Programs, generally 2.5-3 hours | $15, flexible pricing depending on your group |
Helpful Information
- To book a custom group, we will generally need to know how many people and their ages, your preferred date(s) and time of day, as well as goals or outcomes. Please see the form below to make your request.
- Most groups decide to book and pay as one group. Some groups may request to have individuals register and pay separately.
- A deposit of half the expected cost is due at least 21 days before the trip date.
- We will ask for a roster no later than 7 days prior to your scheduled program to ensure all participants' registrations & waivers are complete.
- It is recommended that you review our Plan Your Visit page for more information, including all Kayak Center policies.
- We still paddle in the rain!
- You may book a custom tour that is a focused tour, like our sunset tour or a paddle basics class, or you may book a tour for "just for fun!"
Cancellation Policy
- We ask for a deposit of half the expected cost in order to reserve the trip and put staff on the schedule. The deposit is due 21 days before the trip date, and may be paid earlier if you so choose. We will send you an online registration link to make the payment.
- Deposits may be refunded if you cancel 22 days or more before the trip.
- Deposits will not be refunded if you cancel 21 days or less before the trip.
- Full payment is due on the day of the trip, based on the exact number of participants.
Cancellation Policy due to Weather
- If we are forced to cancel your trip due to weather, we will strive to reschedule if possible. If it is not possible to reschedule, you will be fully refunded. Cancelling due to weather is somewhat rare and is usually due to either high winds or thunderstorms. We will decide if conditions are unsafe and will be in touch with you the day before or morning of to let you know if that is the case.
- Please note, rain is not a reason that we cancel! Rain is actually a really great time to be on the water, it's typically very calm and can be super memorable to spend time outside in the rain. If your group decides not to come or you have fewer people than you reserved for, you would not be eligible for a refund.
Schedule a Custom Program
To schedule a custom program please fill out the Kayak Center Custom Group Request form or you may contact Kate Ford, Outdoor Programs Coordinator and Boathouse Manager by phone at 978-934-1549 or by email: kate_ford@uml.edu.