Kayak or paddleboard?
Both ride the same calm water, but they suit different people. A kayak keeps you seated and low, so balance isn't an issue. It also stays steadier in a light breeze. A paddleboard asks more of your legs and core, and it gives a better view down into the water. Many groups try both on the same trip.
If standing sounds like more fun, read about our paddleboard rental option.
Life jackets and New York rules
New York requires a Coast Guard approved life jacket for every person in a kayak. Children under 12 must wear one at all times. From November 1 to May 1, everyone in a boat under 21 feet must wear one. We have life jackets aboard in adult and child sizes.
You don't need a boating license to kayak. The state's boating safety certificate covers motorboat drivers, and on your charter the captain drives.
Where to paddle
Your captain picks the anchorage based on wind and tide that day. Sheltered water on the calm side of an island or point makes for easy paddling. Most Shelter Island kayak rentals launch from shore, and getting there from Sag Harbor means a ferry ride. On a charter, the kayak rides with you. Your captain anchors off a quiet Shelter Island shoreline and the kayak goes in from the boat. Charters that stay around Shelter Island are covered by our local fuel rate. Longer runs, like Montauk, add a fuel charge.
When you can kayak
Our Hamptons charters run 7 days a week from May 1 to October 15, with morning trips at 10:00 am and afternoon trips at 2:30 pm. Bay water near Sag Harbor averages about 70 to 72 degrees from July through September, so a tip into the water is no big deal in midsummer.
See the full list of gear on our watersports and water toys page. Kayaks are one more way to enjoy our Hamptons boat rentals
