Review : Kayak Annapolis

I don't buy every local deal that comes out via Groupon or similar sites, but I try to post reviews when I do (this week there were a few good Annapolis deals that were just over too quick to share with you all!) In my most recent  , I shared a great half-off deal from Kayak Annapolis which we just used (it was my husband's surprise gift for our anniversary!).

This was such an awesome steal that I had to post a review to share with you all immediately as it is an awesome local summer activity.

I purchased the deal through Living Social. Like Groupon, they e-mail you local deals, often daily, at steep discounts. In this case, a kayak tour was offered at $32 (regularly $65). As my husband often comments that he would like to kayak more often, I knew this would be the perfect gift.

The deal was offered on a Friday and it was available for purchase both Friday and Saturday.  I had some questions before purchasing, and they were quick to return my call and clarify how everything worked.

Again, like Groupon, you purchase the deal online and receive vouchers to present at the time of redemption. When I made the purchase, I received an e-mail saying I would not get the vouchers until Monday. Well, as our anniversary was only 9 days away, I figured I’d at least try to get the date I had in mind. I called and explained that I had purchased the vouchers but was hoping to secure a specific tour date now if available as it was a gift. Again, they were very accommodating and agreed to let me schedule immediately.

Anyway, on to the tour. All participants meet at Truxton Park where a quick paddling lesson is given then you get in the water! User-friendly sit-on-top kayaks were used (most parties used 2-seaters with the exception of the guides and one participant).

The guides (and owners) of the 2-hour guided historic tour are a very friendly married couple who really make the whole thing a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Whether you’ve kayaked before or not, they make you feel comfortable and are happy to answer any questions you may have. Instead of a stuffy monologue speech or recording, the guides are interactive and the information may vary based on questions the participants throw out.

The tour runs from Truxton Park up through Annapolis’s Ego Alley, then back down to the park and includes short stops for historical trivia along the way. There is also a quick stop to stretch your legs (drinks and snacks provided!)

I must admit I was worried about paddling a kayak for two hours, but the time flew by and I was sad to see how quickly the tour ended. The weather was ideal and the experience overall was relaxing; no sunburns, sore arms, or tipped over kayaks! By the time we had finished, we were already talking about other people we wanted to bring back on another tour with us!

Tours are offered three times a day, seven days a week, so all you need to do is call ahead and pick your time. You will speak with an owner directly who can address any questions or concerns. Again, the tour is normally $65 (kids 12 and under $55), but the tour even at full price is well worth it, and you can always watch out for more deals!