Spending the day out on the water slows down time a bit and allows people to fully enjoy the present. Water sports activities in Detroit are pleasurable for those looking to try something different and for anyone that sees summer as a time to get in and/or on the water…and not want to get out.
Be in flow this summer. Whether you’re an avid kayaker, a first-timer testing the waters, or prefer the stand-up paddles, you’re free to move at your own pace.
Soak up the fun and sun of this colorful city. Earth Day in Detroit isn’t the only day to appreciate the land and water. Detroitisit rounded up a list of the best water sports activities in Detroit
PHOTO BRANDON MCDONALD / UNSPLASH
DETROIT RIVER SPORTS
Explore the motor city on water! Open May through October, Detroit River Sports offers kayak and paddle board tours of the Detroit River and the islands of the city’s East side. Public tours are available on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays and are a very relaxed and interesting way to see Detroit and meet new people. For a more intimate experience with family or friends, private tours are available for booking every day of the week. Visit Wednesday- Sunday – 10:00am – 6:00pm. Click HERE to view their site.
Located at 14601 Riverside Boulevard, Detroit. PHONE: 313-908-0484
BELLE ISLE TOUR (DETROIT RIVER SPORTS)
Water sports activities in Detroit rely on the natural beauty of the river. Take in the unique views on this Belle Isle Tour. Up for the challenge? This excursion is their most difficult paddle! It lasts 3.5 to 4 hours including check-in, gear distribution, safety talk, and boat loading. It’s $63 per paddler (not including taxes and fees). Experienced kayakers can expect an enjoyable 2-mile up-river journey back from Belle Isle. Book a tour HERE.
DETROIT’S HISTORIC CANALS (DETROIT RIVER SPORTS)
PHOTO LAURA LEFURGEY-SMITH / UNSPLASH
Looking for an easier paddle? We got you. Try their most popular tour! Take delight in a quiet paddle through Detroit’s historic canals. From the Fisher Mansion to Harbor Island, there are city sights that shine. Glide through the waterfront neighborhoods of Detroit’s east side. It wouldn’t be as enriching without learning a bit of the cherished history of this cultural city!
DETROIT OUTPOST
Outpost has relocated to Grayhaven State Harbor. This Kayak rental service is open seven days a week from dusk until dawn. Choose between a private excursion or an open paddle. The Detroit skyline is one of the most iconic, natural views and you’ll get to soak it in while floating along the Detroit River. Click HERE to view their site.
Located inside of Grayhaven Marina at 12550 Avondale St. Detroit, MI 48215
PHOTO WALTER MARTIN / UNSPLASH
PORT OF DETROIT
The Port of Detroit is located along the west side of the Detroit River and is the largest seaport in the state of Michigan. The Port of Detroit contains a number of terminals in Detroit, River Rouge, and Ecorse. Click HERE for more information. You can simply admire the water activity or you can participate and rent a paddleboard to enjoy the Detroit River. Paddle on! You’ll be surprised how far you’ve gone.
Located at 130 E. Atwater Street, Detroit, Michigan 48226. PHONE: 313-259-5091
RIVERSIDE KAYAK CONNECTION
Be a tourist for the day. It pays off to know the area’s rivers, lakes, and channels. Riverside Kayak Connection offers a wide range of kayaks you can rent for the day so you can explore the waterways at your own leisure. The company also offers spectacular tours. Paddle down the Detroit River with your guide or arrange a custom tour where you can request a tour in German or Swedish. Tours are a somewhat more organized experience, but still an adventure!
PHOTO NICK FEWINGS / UNSPLASH
GAME ON PADDLEBOARDING
Perhaps you’re looking for other water areas and places to rent paddleboards and kayaks in Michigan. Within 5 miles of 10 inland lakes, Game On is a prime place to rent! They know how to provide the tools for your perfect summer water activities in Detroit. Rentals, classes, and programs are available for all ages and abilities. Click HERE to view their site. They have various locations in Oakland County. Delivery is also available. PHONE: 248-690-6241
MOTOR CITY CANOE RENTAL
Oakwoods Outpost: Oakwoods Metropark, Cedar Knoll Picnic Area
Atwater Paddles: 26425 Atwater Street, Flat Rock
Fun summer water activities in Detroit are affordable. Canoe or kayak along the Huron River at Motor City Canoe Rental. Bring your own gear or rent their equipment for the day. They have a free transportation service that picks you up from the take-out point.
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