Kayaking on the Charles River

Glide through the water at your own pace

Word to the wise: When waters dip below 50° F, which may include fall or spring days, all paddlers are required to wear a wetsuit or drysuit. Rentals are available.
You can balance your calorific intake with some healthy adventure by kayaking along the Charles River. It's a more intimate experience with water, wind and sun, as you slice through the river alongside other boats. Splash away at a leisurely pace with frequent rests for photo-ops or race the preppy oarsmen and women on Harvard and MIT crew boats. Sadly, personal coxswain are not for rent.

Charles River Canoe and Kayak rents out various kayaks, canoes, and rowboats (for those wielding parasols and poetry) from five locations. Rentals are by the hour and day, and include Coast-Guard-approved life jackets that will support even non-swimmers. Don't worry, though - the Charles isn't whitewater rafting.