Please keep in mind we require at least 24 hours’ notice for all cancellations. If you have any other questions, please email us at [email protected] or call the retail shop at 312.965.0035. Thank you for choosing Urban Kayaks to service your paddling needs.
TOUR INFORMATION
- Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to use the washroom and stow items you don’t want to bring on the water.
- If you are late to a scheduled Tour, we can get you caught up as long as the group is still on land. Once the group is on the water, we can no longer get you caught up and you will need to reschedule.
- Plan on being on the water for approximately 90 minutes.
- A normal tour travels about 2.5 miles along the Chicago River, stopping frequently to rest and chat.
WATER/FOOD
- It’s a good idea to bring a bottle of water and any other foods/snacks you may want during the tour.
- We do sell beverages, food, and other kayaking essentials you may need.
APPROPRIATE WARM WEATHER CLOTHING
- Beach attire is ideal, so think bathing suits/board shorts. In other words, plan on getting wet.
- Flip flops or sandals also are a great idea.
- Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen are all suggested.
- We have a room where you can change into and out of clothes you plan on wearing on the water.
APPROPRIATE COLD WEATHER CLOTHING
- Spring skiing attire is appropriate.
- Waterproof pants/jacket.
- Gloves/hat also are suggested.
- We have a room where you can change into and out of clothes you plan on wearing on the water.
CLOTHING
- Keep in mind we will be kayaking through downtown Chicago. Do not wear nice/dressy clothing. If you plan on going out after kayaking, bring a change of clothes.
- The chances of tipping our kayaks is extremely low, however, you will get wet. Please dress appropriately.
- Wear athletic clothing, preferably no jeans or cotton pants. You’ll be happy you did once off the water.
- Water-resistant clothing/quick-drying materials are suggested.
- We have a customer changing room on-site for your convenience.
- Protect your skin and wear sunscreen.
STORAGE/BATHROOMS
- We have a few portable toilets on site.
- Locker rentals are available on-site for a minimal fee. Free open-air “cubbies” also are available.
- Bring all belongings at your own risk. We are not responsible for valuables lost or damaged during the outing.
- We do not provide free dry bags, but we do sell them for $10. Please plan accordingly for any electronics or other valuables you wish to keep dry.
GUIDED TOURS: ALL PARTICIPATING INDIVIDUALS MUST...
- Be at least 18 years of age or be accompanied by a parent or guardian who can give consent on your behalf.
- Be physically able to perform the basic tasks necessary to paddle safely.
- Be willing to sign a release of liability and indemnity waiver.
- Be willing to disclose any and all medical conditions that may inhibit your ability to participate safely.
- Be capable of understanding and communicating with the staff and accompanying tour members.
RENTALS: ALL PARTICIPATING INDIVIDUALS MUST...
- Be at least 18 years of age or be accompanied by a parent or guardian who can give consent on your behalf.
- Be physically able to perform the basic tasks necessary to paddle safely.
- Be willing to sign a release of liability and indemnity waiver.
- Be willing to disclose any and all medical conditions that may inhibit your ability to participate safely.
- Have had prior experience paddling a kayak on flat water and demonstrate proficient skills before entering the water.
AGE RESTRICTIONS
- In order to paddle a single kayak as an unguided rental you must be 18 years of age or older.
- Teenagers 15-17 may paddle single kayaks in guided or supervised situations with parental consent.
- Children under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in a tandem (two-person) kayak.
- Toddlers ages 2-4 who weigh under 40 pounds must ride in a toddler seat between two adults. Toddler life vests are limited, so if you have one, bring it! Only very experienced paddlers can/should bring toddlers with them on the river.
- All minors must have signed liability waivers and parental consent.
EQUIPMENT INFORMATION
- A single kayak holds one person and has a weight capacity of up to 250 pounds.
- For those who are bigger, our tandem kayaks can be converted for a single kayaker.
- A tandem kayak can hold one or two people and has a weight capacity of up to 425 pounds.
- Life vests and paddles are included with all tours and rentals.
WEATHER POLICY
- The weather changes quickly in downtown Chicago, and it is often hard to predict what will happen in advance, so we will make a call on the weather at the tour start time.
- In the event of severe weather, such as heavy rain and thunderstorms, we will cancel and offer a refund or option to reschedule.
- If there is light rain or scattered showers, we often stay open. If we are open and you would like to cancel, you must do so at least 24 hours in advance of your tour or rental time to receive a refund. You always have the option to reschedule.
- Our Lakefront location may close in the event of high winds on the lake.
ALCOHOL POLICY
- We have a no alcohol policy.
- For your own safety, we do not allow drinking alcoholic beverages before or during kayaking.
- We invite you to enjoy a beverage AFTER kayaking at our restaurant next door, TacoRio, where kayakers receive 20% off.