Tandem Kayak Rental

Milwaukee Tandem Kayak Rental runs through Brew City Kayak LLC. Rated 4.9 across 10 reviews. Runs 4 hours. From $89.75.

Overview

This rental puts a two person kayak in your hands for four hours on the Milwaukee River, launched straight from Brew City Kayak's dock on South Water Street. Because the shop sits at the water's edge, there is no car roof rack to fight with and no shuttle to arrange. You walk down to the dock, get a short beginner tutorial, and paddle off at whatever pace suits you.

The package covers the essentials: the tandem kayak itself, paddles, life jackets, and instruction before you set out. It is built to work for first timers as much as for people who paddle regularly, since the tutorial covers the basics and the water here is described as calm. The tandem design simply means two people share one kayak.

Four hours is generous. The listing describes the water as tranquil, and you explore it at your own pace for the full rental period. The rental ends where it started, at the blue shipping container by the dock, and drinks and snacks are sold on site if you want something at the end.

What's Included

Included

Kayak
Paddle
PFD (Life Jacket)
Instruction

Not Included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks (available to purchase)
Gratuity
Hotel pickup

Itinerary

Meet at the dockArrive at Brew City Kayak, 820 S Water St. Park in the lot shared with Boone and Crockett or on the street.
Check inCheck in at the blue shipping container at the back of the parking lot, near the water. Reviews describe check in as quick.
Beginner tutorialStaff give a short instruction session covering paddling basics, suitable for first timers.
Paddle the riverTake the tandem kayak out on the Milwaukee River for four hours at your own pace.
Return the kayakBring the kayak back to the same dock where you launched.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make the four hours go more smoothly.

Getting wet. The listing suggests bringing a change of clothes because you may get a little wet from time to time. It lists this as optional rather than required.
Weather and sun. Dress for the weather, and bring water and sunscreen. A hat is optional but sensible on a bright day.
Fitness and pace. The listing says most travellers can participate, and the pace is entirely your own. The beginner tutorial means the rental suits first timers as well as regular paddlers.
Group size. The activity runs with a maximum of 20 travellers. One reviewer noted staff let their group out early rather than making them wait for their scheduled time.
Food and drink. Food, drinks, and alcoholic drinks are not included but can be purchased at the shop. Gratuity is also not included.
Getting there. There is no hotel pickup. The meeting point is near public transportation, and parking is available in the shared lot or on the street.

Common issues. The main practical limit is weather: the listing states the activity can be canceled due to inclement weather, so have a backup plan for the day. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the 10:00 start, no refund is given and changes are not accepted. Alcohol and food cost extra, and gratuity is not included. There is no hotel pickup, so you need to make your own way to South Water Street.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tandem kayak rental?

The rental includes the kayak, paddles, life jackets, and instruction. It lasts four hours and starts and ends at the Brew City Kayak dock on South Water Street. Food, drinks, alcohol, and gratuity are not included, though drinks and snacks can be purchased on site.

Is hotel pickup provided?

No. There is no hotel pickup for this rental. You meet at Brew City Kayak, 820 S Water St, where you can park in the lot shared with Boone and Crockett or on the street, and check in at the blue shipping container near the water.

What time does the rental start?

The listing gives a start time of 10:00. Arrive a bit ahead to park and check in. One reviewer said staff let their group out early when they arrived ahead of their scheduled time, though that is not something to count on.

Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes. The rental includes a beginner tutorial, and the listing describes the water as tranquil and the experience as suitable for anyone from first timers to regular paddlers. The listing also says most travellers can participate and that the activity is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?

Bring water and dress for the weather. Sunscreen and a hat are optional, and a change of clothes is a good idea since you may get a little wet. The activity runs in a group of up to 20 travellers.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancel at least 24 hours before the 10:00 start time for a full refund. Cancel or request changes inside that 24 hour window and no refund or change is given. Cut off times are based on local time in Milwaukee.