FAQ's
What should I wear to go kayaking or paddleboarding?
Clothing that is considered "active wear" is appropriate for kayaking and paddleboarding. We recommend synthetic, quick-drying clothes, long sleeves and a hat. Wear shoes that will stay on your feet (e.g. Tevas, not flip flops).
What should I bring?
We recommend at least 1 liter of water per person and sunscreen. If kayaking, you can pack an easy to eat snack like a granola bar or trail mix. For longer trips, more water and food will be necessary-- but we'll let you know what to bring. Otherwise, a camera and/or a pair of binoculars will all be handy for your expedition. We'll provide the rest!
Why is a 'half-day tour' three hours?
We've been in operation for over 20 years and in that time we've tried every type of kayaking trip possible. From that experience, we've found that in order to give you tour that doesn't feel rushed, it takes three hours. This includes time to teach you some basic kayaking skills and time to properly outfit you for the expedition.
Will I be in a kayak for the entire time?
No, but that is a great question. In order for you to have a great time on the water, we've got to do some pre-trip preparation and lead you through some basic kayak instruction. Once we've gotten that out of the way we'll begin the kayak tour. For longer trips, the tour will include breaks on creekbanks or islands for lunch and to stretch our legs.
What is the difference between a tour and a rental?
With a rental, we'll give you a few pointers, help you pick out your route and assist you onto the water. Once you are in the water, you're on your own to explore! Kayak tours are led by one or more of our skilled guides who will work hard to create an experience that you won't forget! We'll share the intricacies of the creeks and rivers with your, weaving together the natural and human history of the area. Each tour is tailored to your group and is managed for the highest degree of comfort, education and fun!
What if I've never been kayaking or paddleboarding before?
That's great! We'd be thrilled to be the ones to introduce you to these sports.We'll teach you all you need to know before we get on the water so that you feel confident during your tour. Our guides will help you with technique along the way to make your expedition is as enjoyable as possible. Kayaking and paddleboarding are 'lifetime sports' and are suitable for all ages and skill levels. If you have concerns or questions, please call our office and let us know.
If I have a disability, is it possible for me to go kayaking?
If you have a disability, you may find that kayaking gives you freedom that being on land doesn't offer! Prior to making your reservation, call us to see how we can adapt a kayak to meet your needs and teach you the skills needed to enjoy a kayak tour.
We have a kayak that customized for adaptive paddling, and one of our lead guides, Wick Bouton, has participated in ACA Adaptive Paddling training to ensure a comfortable and fun day on the water!
Why is there a 24-hour cancellation policy?
If you cancel within 24-hours of your tour and don't schedule another trip, it is our policy to charge 50% of the total. Because we keep our tours small for a high-quality experience, a guide is reserved for your trip when you book a tour. If you cancel within 24 hours, it means that we have turned down other clients for that time and it impacts the guide that has been scheduled to lead your group.
What happens if it looks like the weather is going to be bad?
If there is a significant threat of a thunderstorm, high winds or other inclement weather, we will reschedule your kayaking trip. Safety and comfort are our highest priorities; If conditions are dangerous, we will not kayak.
If the tour is going to cancel, we will call you and let you know! If a tour cancels due to inclement weather or conditions, you will not be charged.
Why are your kayak tours slightly more expensive than some of the other places in town?
There are several reasons why we don't do Groupon and we have modestly higher rates than some of the other kayaking liveries. First, we keep our tours small with an average 1:6 ratio of guides to kayaks to give you personal attention and a high-quality experience. If we did lower prices, we'd be forced to put you on a super-sized tour, and we just don't want to do that.
Second, we've invested in great guides, private on-water locations and top-of-the-line equipment. You'll be in a professional-grade kayak with associated gear and be led by a guide with advanced certifications who is knowledgeable about the natural and cultural history of Charleston.
And third, we give back in our community. Every tour you take into Cape Romain gives a percentage to Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. And throughout the year, we make large donations environmental causes like the Cape Romain Sea Turtle Project, Center for Birds of Prey, Swallow-tailed Kite research in Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge and more.
How much should I tip my guide?
If your trip was great, 15-20% is the standard amount for guiding services.
May I bring my dog? May I go fishing?
Not for a guided tour. If you'd like to take your dog or go fishing, we can rent you a kayak that can accommodate this. Be sure to let us know when you make a reservation so that we can outfit you with an appropriate boat.