10 Reasons to Try Public Boathouse Kayaking in NYC
New York City is an amazing place to visit or live as there is such a diverse range of things to do and see. These include museums, galleries, landmarks, parks, theaters, and events. One of the best-known features of the city is the harbor. Most people are happy to simply admire this from the waterfront unless they are taking one of the tourist boat cruises. However, the harbor also provides the opportunity to get involved in some fun and interesting recreational activities, one of which is kayaking. Many people believe that this activity is limited to rivers in rural locations, but it is also something that you can enjoy in the urban setting of the harbor. If you want to try public boathouse kayaking, the best place to go is The Downtown Boathouse, which is located on Hudson River Greenway, New York City. Here are just ten of the reasons you should try public boathouse kayaking in New York City.
1. A Free Activity
If you have a limited budget, then you may need to look for activities in NYC to enjoy that are free. The Downtown Boathouse says that they offer free public kayaking sessions in the harbor. This includes hire of the kayak and all safety equipment, plus some basic instruction on kayaking. This means it is a fantastic free activity to include in your vacation itinerary if you need to watch your budget.
2. Enjoy the New York Skyline and the Surrounding Views
The New York skyline is a magnificent sight, and there are several ways that you can view. For example, you can take a walk, climb one of the taller landmarks, or take a boat trip. A unique and enjoyable way to get an alternative perspective of the New York skyline is to see it from your kayak, says Time Out. Similarly, the views across the Hudson River are equally impressive.
3. Try Something Different and Exciting
Whenever you get the opportunity, you should try something new. It is only by doing this that you will gain new experiences and find activities about which you may become passionate. If you have never kayaked before, then the public boathouse kayaking is a fantastic opportunity to try something new.
4. A Safe Way to Try Kayaking
Safety is essential when kayaking due to the currents and the risk of drowning. Therefore, it is important to learn this activity in a safe environment where there are experts on hand. When you go kayaking at New York’s public boathouse kayaking, you can learn the activity in a safe environment. Not only are you given the safety equipment you need, but you are also learning in an area of the harbor that is cordoned off for safety.
5. Enjoy the Outdoors
Other than the parks, many of New York City’s most famous attractions and activities are indoors. However, many people prefer activities that are outside where they are not cooped up and limited by their surroundings. If you prefer spending time in the outdoors enjoying physical activities in the fresh air, then this is a great option. You have a large open space to enjoy and you can burn off some energy.
6. Have Some Fun
Anyone who has ever tried kayaking will tell you what a fun activity it is and how it is something that people of all abilities can enjoy. If you are bored of touring the museums, art galleries, and landmarks in New York, then this is something different you can try that will add an element of fun to your time in New York.
7. An Activity for all the Family
There are some activities in New York that are only suitable for adults, and others that are best suited to children. It is sometimes tricky to find something that all the family to enjoy together. Public boathouse kayaking is an activity that everyone in the family can try, regardless of their age. However, it is important to note that for safety reasons, anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult or they are not allowed out in the harbor in a kayak.
8. The Option for Expert Lessons
Although there are free sessions that allow people to use the kayaks and to kayak around the restricted area of the harbor at their will, there is also the option to take a paid lesson from an expert. This will teach you additional kayaking skills, which is useful if you plan to take up this activity as a hobby. It is also a good option for those who do not feel confident in the water and need a little extra instruction before heading out into the harbor alone. The instructors available are qualified and highly experienced.
9. Meet Some New People and Make Friends
Lifehack suggests that one of the reasons to give kayaking a go is to meet new people and to make new friends. If you are visiting New York, it is an excellent way to meet some of the locals and fellow tourists. Similarly, residents of the city can make new friends that share their love of kayaking and other outdoor activities.
10. Watch the Sights of the Harbor
The harbor is a busy place with lots going on daily. You can watch how the harbor functions and the boats come and go while you kayak, and this is an interesting sight to see. There are boats and ships of all sizes, and there are the tourist cruises filled with exciting people who will probably wave at you as they pass. It is also a good activity for people watching, as the harbor is a hive of activity. Furthermore, you can take delight at your fellow kayakers enjoying themselves. No matter how many times you head out into the harbor in a kayak, you will see something new and interesting every time in these ever-changing surroundings.
