Downtown Boathouse
- Hours:
Sat-Sun 9 am - 6 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
25 reviews for Downtown Boathouse
25 reviews in English
-
Review from Ana M.
Brooklyn, NY
6/15/2011
i couldnt help but be lured by the sign with the most beautiful words " free kayaking". how can i? how can i just ignore the opportunity of kayaking for free on a blazing hot day? i couldnt and i wouldnt.
I've never gone kayaking berfore and i dont know how to swim so my friend was freaking out about me falling overboard and sinking deep into the river being lost forever but i didnt care and took the risk. i lied saying that i did know how to swim, signed the waiver, took of my sneakers and put on the biggest live vest there was just in case. and i was set to kayak!!! i wish i knew they had free sunscreen because my friend is as white as paper and she had no protection against the sun's rays and after kayaking for 5 hours straight she was as red as a lobster!!! i do feel like i might be responsible for her sunburn but whatever! she should've known :P
it was the most fun i've had and i mightve found a new hobby. so when ever i'm feeling like being cheap and in need of a tan i'll go kayaking!!!! -
Review from Mickey M.
7/18/2011
Free kayaking is an amazing opportunity, and a Sunday morning guided three hour tour is also an amazing thing. Unfortunately, due to the interest of a lot of people and the lack of kayaks, you may find yourself getting up early on a Sunday to be disappointed.
I think their Sunday morning three hour tour is a fantastic option for people who live in the immediate area of Pier 96, but perhaps not so much for people who have to make a trek there.
Their website stresses that you should arrive by 7:45AM on Sunday to get into the lottery for the kayaking that morning. Your name is pulled from a hat(which you indicate solo or double) and the first 7 or so solo kayaks are chosen, and the first 3 or so double kayaks are chosen. In total, about 15 people will get the opportunity to kayak that morning.
Expect about 45 people to show up for the 15 spots. Their website does say that you have a 50% chance of getting the chance to kayak. I think during the peak summer days, it might really be about a 25% chance.
I might try the Sunday morning kayak trip again towards the end of the season, but probably not. -
Review from Norma S.
Flushing, NY
5/26/2011
It is run by donations yet it is offered for free. Make sure to drop a few bucks when you visit. This little spot is awesome and just like central park it takes you away from the traffic and rush of the city.
When you kayak you are in a sectioned area. You need to wear a life jacket and there is staff (volunteering) that is help you get started. Wear clothes you can wet in and a change of clothes. There is a changing area. There are small lockers you can put away your personal stuff. Stop by once and you will see yet another great spot in NYC -
Review from Amy S.
9/10/2010 2 photos
FREE KAYAKING!! Kayaking is already a really fun thing to do on a hot sunny day. Add the word "free" in front of it, and it becomes irresistible. I went to the Pier 96 location which is off of W 56th Street on the Hudson.
All you have to do is sign a waiver (which is valid for a year) and you're good to go. They require you to know how to swim, but life jackets are mandatory and provided for you. There are also lockers for you to store your stuff so don't forget to bring a lock. You will get wet, so I'd recommend kayaking in a swim suit and bringing a change of clothes.
I was impressed with how much space they block off for us to paddle around in. Yes, the Hudson is disgustingly dirty, but it's not like we have to swim in it. My sister and I opted for single kayaks instead of sharing a double one, so that we could race each other around the boundaries. When we got tired, we hooked our oars together so we could lean back to chat and enjoy the nice weather. There's a 20 minute limit that's loosely enforced. Since it wasn't busy when we went, we stayed out on the water for a little over half an hour. Then we stayed another half hour on the dock to sun bath. Awesome, FREE fun! -
Review from Greg O.
Manhattan, NY
6/4/2011
Absolutely free kayaking on the Hudson river! The all-volunteer staff is very friendly, there is lots of equipment available and the whole process is really simple even for a complete novice. You show up, sign a liability waiver, put on a life jacket and get in. They explain the basics and off you go!
Couple of things to keep in mind:
1) You have to know how to swim. Duh.
2) You will get wet from the waist down at least (if you don't capsize), so either bring a change of clothes (they have changing rooms) or wear a swimsuit. -
Review from Mike P.
Manhattan, NY
5/16/2011
I discovered this little-known gem at the start of last summer and have been volunteering there ever since.
When I first stopped by to paddle around I was greeted by some of the friendliest and most knowledgeable people I've come across in my five or six years of paddling, and they all went out of their way to make my experience as safe, comfortable and enjoyable as it could be. I locked up my bike, threw my stuff in a locker (they even provided the locks), signed a waiver, clipped on my life jacket and was on the water before I knew it. My roommate and I kayaked around the embayment for twenty minutes or so and spent another fifteen minutes talking to the volunteers to learn more about the program ("Yes, FREE!" "Yes, it's clean enough to swim in," "Yes we're funded exclusively by donations from the public" "Yes, we run trips up and down the Hudson every Saturday morning,""Yes, you can keep your boat here eventually.")
I went back the following week to start volunteering, and spending time at the pier quickly became one of the highlights of my week. Over the course of the summer I got to know a great group of volunteers, I met hundreds of people from all walks of life and helped get them out kayaking on the Hudson, and I got to spend time out in the sun and on the water doing something I love. Anybody can volunteer and some days I enjoy the time I spend 'working' on the dock more than the time I spend on the water.
The Downtown Boathouse is one of the city's best kept secrets. It's a really unique organization and it offers a chance to explore a side of the city that few people would otherwise get to see. I'd absolutely recommend it to everyone and anyone, just remember to wear a bathing suit or bring a dry change of clothes. -
Review from Sarah H.
Brooklyn, NY
7/4/2007
Want to do something fun and free? Totally, 100% FREE? Get thee to the Downtown Boathouse for some kayaking on the Hudson.
I gave the boathouse five stars, but it really deserves six. Or seven.
I've been to the lower Manhattan location, off Houston St, twice now, and I plan to go back. All they require before you get on the water is that you know how to swim, that you sign a waiver, and agree to their rules. Once you've done that, you grab a lifejacket and throw your personal belongings into one of the lockers provided (they even have locks so if you don't bring one, no worries!), and head down to the small dock. A volunteer will get you settled in a kayak and give you some pointers on how to kayak if you've never done it before. They have both single and double kayaks, so if you don't want to go it alone you don't have to.
The kayaking area seems fairly large to someone like myself who has now only kayaked twice in my life. The area is restricted so newbies don't go out onto the Hudson in the path of speedboats and barges and such. The second time I went, I actually saw JELLYFISH in the water. Jellyfish! In the Hudson! Who knew?!?
You are supposed to return to the dock after about 20 minutes but I haven't seen this enforced yet; I guess it depends on whether they have people waiting to get out on the water. I've never been there when it's very busy.
After you are finished, you can hose off the Hudson River water and then change into dry clothes in the "changing room" which is just a private area designated by a white tarp.
It's a good workout and a really good time. Also...FREE.
My recommendations: wear a bathing suit; also, bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag to put your river-y clothes in when you're done. You WILL get wet. -
Review from Greg M.
New York, NY
8/9/2010
How can you deny a fifth star to free kayaking? I mean, it's kayaking! In the Hudson! For free!
The folks who put this together do an outstanding job of organizing it and provide literally everything you need right down to free sunscreen, lockers, changing rooms and even a shower.
So why only four stars? Because the Hudson River stinks. The last two times I went we encountered large amounts of free-floating garbage in the part of the cove closest to the shore.
It's still a fun activity and still has outstanding organization. But bring a full change of clothes if you're going anywhere besides home after kayaking. -
Review from Sergio R.
New York, NY
Updated - 6/2/2010
Kayaking season is open. All 3 locations have already been open and putting people on the river for 3 weekends. Weekday evening kayaking starts at the Pier 96 location on June 21st, every evening at 5pm 'til the end of August.
The weekend morning paddling trips up or down the Hudson are very popular. Due to overwhelming demand, spots are allocated by lottery among those who arrive BEFORE 8am on a Saturday or Sunday morning on a trip day. Recreational paddling is available at 9am on weekends and holidays, even when trips are out. Some volunteers run the public program, while others simultaneous escort the group out on the morning trips.
Waits are usually short, especially early in the day. Lines can get quite long toward the end of the day, especially when the weather is amazing. Late arrivers are often not able to be launched when those waiting on line exceed the capacity of the facility. So go early and have fun. FOR FREE.
Kayaking is absolutely free. No one guilts you into a donation, but they gladly direct you to the donation box if you insist on making a contribution in gratitude for the awesome experience.
How can you beat the opportunity to paddle on the Hudson? Did I mention that it's free. Sometimes the best things in life are free. Kayaking on the Hudson is one of those things.Listed in: Romancing the River
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
-
10/7/2009
Last weekend of the season:
Sat, Sun & Monday all day, opening @ 9am Go early .
What a great year it… Read more »
-
-
Review from Colin B.
New York, NY
6/9/2010
I went last Saturday and it still feels like one of those Manhattan experiences you "got away with." How can it be free? I was assuming we'd hear some kind of hard sell from them to buy their tours but nope - pure enjoyment on the water.
Choose from a 1 or 2 person kayak, strap on a life vest, stay within 75 feet of the designated area and GO!
We stayed out for over an hour, did a bit of kayak bumping and the only time we ever received a gentle yelling was when we got too close to the docks.
Paddle over to one of the boats and ask to come in!
Head over to the Frying Pan afterwards to complete your day as a mariner. -
Review from Jennifer M.
New York, NY
6/16/2008
I envisioned rapid tides and intense paddling, but this is very tame - akin to paddle boats. They have a rather smallish area roped off in which to take your kayak. So, you're never in any danger of being nears other ships. It was fun, but I really wanted a more intense physical workout. Mostly me and my friend (we shared a kayak) paddled for a bit then put our oars down and laid back and talked while soaking up the sun. I did get a tan, so that was nice! We were told we could be out for 20 minutes - but they let us stay for over an hour.
My friend and I went on a Saturday afternoon around 1:00pm and got a boat immediately. They have a locker to put your bags in (you have to bring you're own lock) and I brought a change of clothes, as my shorts were completely soaked after my excursion. I do recommend wearing a bathing suit and lots of sunscreen.
It's free, the staff is very friendly and I do recommend checking this out. I really want to try their three hour tour they do on Saturday mornings. -
Review from Joanie K.
8/4/2010
One of my favorite places to go in NYC during the summer.
Not sure how the other piers are, but this one def. doesn't see that much traffic so it's perfectly OK to stay in the water for more than 30 min.
the last time i went was right after it rained so the current was really strong and the tide high. that was a little rough... so def. choose your weather wisely! -
Review from Juliet S.
6/10/2009
My 200th review! Couldn't be for a better place.
On a hot summer day in New York, many people tend to want to stay inside and survive with air conditioning. I CHALLENGE you all to step outside your comfort zones and enjoy an afternoon of safe, easy, and relaxing fun kayaking on the Hudson.
There are so many amazing things about the Downtown Boathouse organization. Most importantly, kayaking is FREE. Yes, fellow broke New Yorkers, this is absolutely, without a doubt, 100% free of charge. This is run entirely by volunteers - you can of course make a donation in the box made available, but even this is not pushed on visitors. DTBH is also not affiliated at all with NYC parks and rec.
Another plus: there are several locations. Pier 40, Pier 96, and 72nd Street. Check out website for more info: http://www.downtownboa...
I went to the one on W 72nd Street. My boyfriend and I took the cross-town 72 bus, got off by Riverside park, walked down the stairs and down along the water until we reached the pier (you can't miss it, just look for the bright red and yellow kayaks!).
***Personal suggestion if you go to 72nd street location: after spending some time kayaking in the late afternoon, head up a few blocks to the Boat Basin Cafe (79th Street) and enjoy a burger and beer overlooking the Hudson.***
We didn't have to wait very long (20 min) on Sunday afternoon (we went around 1), but soon after we arrived a tremendous line formed. I don't know if there is a best time to go, but I would assume the closer to opening time the less of a wait you'll have. Hours are 10 am - 5 pm Saturday and Sundays.
Here's how it works when you arrive: go to the little desk with the kind volunteers and fill out a waiver. Signing the waiver once will last you for a year. Put your belongings in a provided locker (they have locks, I brought my own though) and grab a life jacket. Wait by the railing until a kayak is available for you, head down the gangplank (maybe not what it is called...ha) and the volunteers will instruct you how to get into your mighty plastic vessel. Pretty much, sit down on the dock and slide your butt into the seat.
I would recommend that you wear bathing suit bottoms as your behind will probably get a tad wet from the seat (or from your partner splashing you...). There are changing rooms and running water at the Pier 40 and 96 location, but not at 72nd, so come prepared accordingly.
There are single and double kayaks available. Both are great options. Parents, you can get a single and put small children in your lap.
There is a small area the shape of a square in which you can paddle. If you try to go much further you may get a sharp warning from a worker (as we did - whoops!) but you won't get kicked out. There are sometimes waves from passing boats, but nothing too bad. The closer to low tide, however, the larger the waves, so keep that in mind.
Time limits: technically about 20 minutes, but that isn't really enforced, especially on days where the line isn't long. Just remember to be considerate of others who are also wanting to partake in this fantastically free recreation.
This is an EASY way to spend a free afternoon on a summer's day in NYC. Take advantage of it. NOW! -
Review from Jade H.
5/23/2010 2 photos
FREE?????? OK!
They will lend you a locker (if you have a lock) and a life vest and a kayak and paddles for as long as you want. Sign the waiver that says that you are really putting your own life in peril and you are off to kayak the hudson for free.
FIRST COME FIRST SERVE. Come early. -
Review from Elizabeth A.
Brooklyn, NY
7/27/2009
Pier 96 (at 56th Street) - Offers free three hour tours on the Hudson from 8 am (don't be late) until 12 noon, run entirely by volunteers. This is 50 times better than any upper body gym workout you'll ever do; you will have a nice suntan (or sunburn, as the case may be) when you return, and a wild sense of accomplishment as it will be only 12 noon.
3 hour tour not recommended for 1st timers! (Yes, my miserable mistake). Show up after 12 noon when the 30 minute short paddle outings begin and do those first!
What to bring: trail mix, sunblock, bathing suit, gatorade, at least $5 donation. -
Review from Felicia B.
Manhattan, NY
8/23/2011
The Downtown Boathouse is pretty cool...free kayaking...no strings attached! It's usually not too busy...The times I went I was allowed to stay out in the water for as long as I wanted. It's pretty amazing to have this available. I just wish they offered more times during the week in summer months! Also, I was worried about buying a lock for my locker, but pier 41 had tons ready for people to use.
-
Review from Vivian H.
3/26/2010
I've only gone to Pier 40, but there you can borrow 1- or 2-person kayaks FOR FREE! My friends and I went there a couple times over the summer, and the wait was never more like like 5-10 minutes. The area is kind of small, but it's great being out on the water! A great workout too :)
The staff is really friendly and they help you into the kayaks so you don't just flip over. They have tiny lockers, so I wouldn't recommend bringing too much stuff. You also might get wet, so maybe bring an extra pair of bottoms.
They also have rowing, I think.. in some capacity. -
Review from Tyler C.
New York, NY
7/17/2009
We went for the free kayaking at Pier 96 (at 56th Street) last Saturday around noon, and only had to wait maybe five minutes for kayaks to become available. The operation seemed very well organized and they had lockers, a changing area (a wooden booth with a curtain), a big jug of sunscreen, and sanitizer to help wash the Hudson off your hands when you're done.
The kayaking was pretty fun, but the area you paddle around in is limited so you may get bored before too long. Nevertheless, it's definitely worth trying out at least once, if only to experience the dirtiness of the Hudson River up close. Your butt will get wet, so dress accordingly. -
Review from Minhan S.
5/29/2010
First time kayaking here and I loved it!!!
On every weekend and holidays Downtown Boathouse has free kayaking! Staff members are all volunteers and donation-driven! Don't forget to donate!!
I got there at about 2pm on Saturday, and there were a bunch of people waiting for their turn. I signed up, put my bag in a locker, took a life-jacket, and waited for my turn. I got a single-kayak, and the staff members were really kind and helpful! There was a boundary, so I couldn't go far, but every Saturday at 7am there is a lottery to pick people who get invited to kayak to the statue of liberty!! I will get that chance next time!
My advices for you:
- Get there early.
- Restroom is outside. (Don't annoy the staff there for it!)
- Extra cloths are a must!(You will definitely get wet!)
- Bring a lock for a locker! (There are not many lockers, so feel comfortable with waiting!)
- Last, DONATE!!! -
Review from Min P.
San Francisco, CA
7/25/2010
Free kayaking on the Hudson River from 10-5 on all weekend days. How awesome is that? The limit is 20 mins. per ride, but if it's not too busy, you can just chill and kayak for as long as you want.
Did I mention the key word in the last paragraph? FREE! I usually try and tip them because they are just so awesome, but there is no fee involved. I can't believe how fun it is.
The Hudson water is definitely not the cleanest, so try to not get it in your mouth, but if you are up for a good chill daytime activity, here you are! -
Review from Tiffany T.
New York, NY
9/30/2007
Fun, little known secret....so let's keep it on the downlow, ok? Wouldn't want longer lines, right? ; )
Friend and I went to the 72nd location on a Saturday morning around 10:30. I think that's the best time to go. Then you make up for all that exercise by lounging over brunch at Sarabeth's! Go, strap on a life jacket, sign a waiver...hop in! You should bring sunscreen and a change of clothes cuz your bottom will be soaked. There's restrooms to change in near the cafe. There are lockers for you to store electronics like cell phones. You can leave your shoes down on the pier and go kayaking barefoot.
Have to stay within a set area. If you've been kayaking before, then this is pretty tame stuff. They have one- and two-person kayaks. A must do if you have little kids! I would have loved this sooooo much if I was 10 years old or younger. And it's free!! -
Review from Maria B.
10/15/2009
Who knew that they had this FREE activity in NY on the Hudson???
I didn't. Wow. Wish I had known sooner so as to get more time on the water.
It is a fun activity for anyone!
It gets crowded, so I recommend going early. Also, bring a pair of extra shorts to change into afterwards.
The only downfall is that there is no bathroom.
My friends and I had a great time! So will you! -
Review from Emily D.
San Francisco, CA
5/4/2007
ah, wanna know about a relatively undiscovered gem in NYC? the Downtown Boathouse.
Kayaks (and paddles and life jackets) can be borrowed for free with little more than a signed waiver. I used to race from work on Tuesday evening to play kayak polo (no experience necessary...) and it was great fun. Or you can just take a boat and simply splash around or join a tour across the river. There's something really special about watching the sunset on a hot summer evening from atop the Hudson river. and it's all free!
-sigh- I wish San Francisco had something like this. -
Review from Kat B.
New York, NY
5/28/2007
I agree about the gem that is Downtown Boathouse. I just recently discovered this wonderful group. I went with a friend to the 56th street location around 3pm on Memorial Day. We signed a waiver and were in the water in about 10 minutes. We splashed around in a double kayak for 20 minutes. Then we hopped on two single kayaks for another 20 minutes. It was my first time so my arms are a bit sore today! The people who run it are quite friendly, and while sunning ourselves dry on the dock the lady chatted with us. They even have free lockers with locks to store your stuff! I can't WAIT to go on a 3 hour tour!
Listed in: Where I tri
-
Review from Jesse N.
New York, NY
9/19/2010
What an AMAZING summer program run by these fine people!!! I've been ADDICTED to the free kayaking since I moved to NYC a few weeks ago and have been going every weekend since! Went to the one in Riverside Park but there are numerous locations throughout the city. I recommend kayaking SOLO. Better control over the kayak and it's just more fun to do it by yourself!
