Canoe Policies

Canoe trips are $10 per person.

Payment (cash or check) must be received to reserve spots.

Phone, fax or email reservations are not accepted.

 

  • We cannot accept credit cards.
  • Walk-in registrations will be accepted on a space available basis.
  • Refunds can't  be given for cancellations or for "no shows."
  • If the Sanctuary must cancel a trip due to bad weather (unsafe conditions), low enrollment, or to lack of leader, we will provide a full refund.
  • Canoes, life vests, and paddles are provided by JBWS. Our fleet consists of '158' and '174' model Old Town Discovery canoes.
  • Private canoes or kayaks are not allowed.
  • Participants can provide their own paddles or Coast Guard approved PFD (life vest) if they wish.
  • Children must be at least seven years old. For children under 16 years old, there should be at least one adult for every two children; preferably one adult per child.
  • The trips start promptly and leave the Wetlands Center approximately 15 minutes after the stated starting time. Participants who arrive more than 15 minutes late may not be able to join the excursion, although we will do our best to help latecomers catch up with the group.
  • Trips are four hours long and include: general orientation, basic paddling lesson, walk to canoes at River Pier, launching canoes, and paddling. Plan to be on the water for approximately 2.0 to 2.5 hours.

What to bring on the trip:

  • Plenty of drinking water or other liquids.
  • Lunch or snack to eat on the water.
  • Sunscreen
  • Broad-brimmed hat
  • Synthetic clothing that dries quickly and shoes that can get wet
  • Optional: binoculars and camera. Remember we will be on the water and personal items may get wet. Canoes can tip over, paddles drip water into the canoes, and feet can get wet when entering or exiting the canoe. We claim no liability for personal items or electronic equipment (cell phones included) that are damaged during the canoe trip.
  • Recommended: Waterproof dry bag to protect expensive electronic items from water.
  • It is an easy one mile walk to the canoe launch site (River Pier) so you may wish to wear comfortable walking shoes before changing into paddling "wettable" shoes at the launch site.