Wateriders -- Chicago River Kayak Tours and Rentals - Chicago, Illinois

Alvin M.

What an amazing experience! And Wateriders made it safe and easy!

We had originally booked a 2 hr kayak rental, but when we were arrived, noticed there was a public tour and decided we wanted to take part in that instead. Charlie and his team were very accommodating and (for an upcharge) we were able to join. There were only 4 people in our group, so there were no problems with feeling too crowded.

We went on a Saturday at 10:30 am for the Architectural Tour. That day we also were able to experience the rare event of sail boats going through the city and the draw bridges going up!

Our tour guide, Phil, was great and answered all of our questions. He was very knowledgeable when it came to Chicago architecture and history. My friend and I had a great experience. We were able to keep up with the tour guide and ask lots of questions during the transitions.

If you are new to kayaking, just remember like any typical tour, the group will travel to specific locations, listen to the tour guide, and then move on to the next location. All that to say, there's lots of paddling in between, so my advice is just to enjoy the experience and take in the sights!

Definitely a unique experience a fun way to learn about Chicago!

Would highly recommend if you're looking for something different!

Raphael N.

Thank you, Philip, for the incredible kayak tour! We had a fantastic time and loved exploring the river. We also appreciated all the fascinating details you shared about the city's iconic buildings. The kayak tour was an essential part of our visit. If we return to Chicago, we'll definitely book it again. I highly recommend this tour—it's a memorable way to experience the city!

CoachJennMyzia

This Chicago Ghost and Gangster Kayak tour was awesome. I chose it because my 82 year old mother said she wanted to go kayaking and she has told me numerous times she wants to go on a ghost tour but not at night. This tour covered both items. Charlie our tour guide was phenomenal an so wonderful helping my mother in and out of the kayak. Thank you Wateriders for an amazing experience.

Nicole A.

My friend and I had an excellent experience with Wateriders. We made sure to come 30 minutes early like they requested which is very important so you know the safety guidlines and do some preparation before taking off. Our guide Jim was very caring and made sure we had proper guidance on safety and made sure it was safe for us to Kayak. He was very nice and helpful showing us where to go and what cool animals to look out for. It was definitely worth paying for the 2 hours. I would definitely do this again!

Jason P.

Five star water experience . I booked the sunrise trip. Guide was well informed and worked to keep different skill levels moving in the river . He even ordered perfect weather😎! They had multiple types of boats single tandem and sit in tops. Gear was in good condition and clean . The paddle was fun and a great way to see a different view of Chicago.

Jess L.

Me & my friend had the best FIRST time experience ever !!!!. Our instructor taught us what we needed to know, after that he trusted us to do the right thing. We will be coming back this will be our new activity spot for sometime now. I also loved learning about the history of Chicago on the tour !!!

Raleigh M.

I celebrated my sobriety with a solo trip to one of my favorite cities, and couldn’t of asked for a more beautiful experience then kayaking the river watching the firework show. The guides were very helpful and would highly recommended this to anyone whether you’re new to the city or just visiting! Thank you Wateriders for such an beautiful experience

Anastasia B.

We had an amazing time with Sauce & he did a great job giving us a spectacular tour of Chicago by water!! We learned & laughed & got in a good workout! A wonderful family outing! Thank you