Family youth sea kayaking in a protected bay on Mount Desert Island
2.5 hours water time
Guided tour, Tandem sea kayaks
Paddle with your family on a youth-focused sea kayaking tour from Hadley Point Public Beach. Your Registered Maine Guide chooses the route based on wind, visibility, and tides.
Ages 6+ for children, and each child under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Tandem kayaks are primarily used; solo or odd-numbered paddlers may be paired with a guide or another guest. No pets are allowed on the property or on the water.
Cancel or change at least 48 hours before tour time for a full refund. Changes or cancellations within 48 hours are not refunded or rebooked. If inclement conditions (heavy wind/significant rain) cause the operator to cancel, you can cancel out or reschedule for a different day/time.
Arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
Bring footwear you don’t mind getting wet, plus sunglasses, sunscreen, and water or another non-alcoholic beverage. You can also bring a camera and binoculars.
Each child under 16 must be at least 6 years old and must be paired with an adult from your party. The tour primarily uses tandem sea kayaks.
This kayaking operation gets consistently high marks for knowledgeable, passionate guides who really make the experience. Reviewers specifically call out Brad, Carrie, Andrew, Isaiah, Kyle, and Casey for their expertise about local wildlife, history, and ecology. The tours regularly deliver on wildlife sightings, with seals, bald eagles, porpoises, and other creatures making frequent appearances. People appreciate the beautiful, remote locations on the quieter side of Mount Desert Island, away from the crowds. The vibe here is decidedly low-key and unpretentious. This isn't a polished resort operation with fancy amenities. For rentals, you'll need to transport kayaks yourself on a two-wheeled cart down to the water, which some found more challenging than expected, especially with kids. The equipment is functional rather than luxurious (minimal seat cushioning), though generally well-maintained. If you're looking for a DIY rental experience, come prepared for some extra effort. The guided tours, however, seem more streamlined and well-organized. First-timers consistently report feeling comfortable and well-instructed, with guides adapting to weather conditions and group abilities. The thoughtful touches, like homemade muffins after a tour, capture the authentic, personal approach here.