Frequently Asked Questions
Check out some of the most frequently asked questions at Naperville Kayak.
- What are your hours?/Are you open today? The best way to determine if we are open and have availability is to go to “Book Now” and select a date and time you would like to kayak to see if it is available. The booking site will only show days and times we are open and that are available.
- Where do I go for River Trips? Please park at Zion Lutheran Church, Naperville ( 11007 Book Road, Naperville, IL 60564)
- What should I bring? Sunblock, hat for sun protection, snacks, and water. Waterproof bag to keep camera or cell phone in. Clothing that will keep you warm, dry, and protected from sun.
- Do you rent kayaks? Yes, we rent kayaks. We recommend you make an online reservation, however will accept walk-ins if boats are available. The lake location makes for a great experience on non-moving protected water.
- Do you rent stand-up paddleboards? Yes, we have stand-up paddleboards available for our river trips. Choose the BOOK NOW button below to schedule your river trip.
- Do you offer kayak river trips on the DuPage River? We do! We offer kayak and stand-up paddleboard river trips on the DuPage River in Naperville. Choose the BOOK NOW button below to schedule your river adventure!
- Are there age and size minimums for River Trips? Yes, for the river, all solo paddlers must be either 13 years old or 5 feet tall and 100 pounds minimum. Children 8-12 can ride in the front seat of a tandem kayak with a parent. Children under 18 on the river will need to have a parent with them at all times.
- Are the age and size minimums for Kayak Rentals? Yes, paddlers younger than age 8 can paddle in the front of a two-person boat with a parent. Children must be able to sit independently and remain seated without getting up or trying to stand on the kayak. Children 8 and up can usually paddle a kayak or paddleboard on their own, depending on their strength and coordination. Children under 13 will need to have a parent on the water with them at all times. Children between 13-18 can paddle by themselves but will need to have a parent signed waiver.
- Are there weight maximums? Yes, our kayaks are rated at 300 pounds for a single kayak and 450 pounds for total weight on a tandem kayak. Total weight capacity for our paddleboards is 400 pounds.
- Will I get wet? Yes, you will get wet from splashing yourself, or from water dripping down the paddle. So long as conditions allow, we will paddle in the rain, so please dress appropriately. If there are thunderstorms in the area and we cancel your outing and you will be given a full refund.
- Do the boats tip easily? No, our kayaks and paddleboards are recreational kayaks and are very stable. That said, we recommend that you dress to get wet in the event that you tip over, and secure anything that you don’t want to lose.
- Is kayaking dangerous? With any body of water there are always certain risks that must be considered. We take all necessary precautions we can to ensure safety. We also ask all participants to always be aware of their surroundings, watch for and avoid hazards, and look out for each other while on the water.
- What is the refund policy? We require at least 24 hours notice for any cancelations otherwise you will not be refunded. If weather limits your paddle, we will gladly provide a rain check coupon to come back at another time. We are unable to extend coupon dates or provide refunds for coupons. If your river trip is cancelled prior to start, you will not be charged.
- Do you allow alcohol? Alcohol and drug use is prohibited. Any paddlers suspected of being under the influence we will not be allowed on the water and will not be refunded.
- Can I bring my own boat? Yes, all of the launches we use are open to the public and anyone may launch their own boat provided it meets proper safety standards
- Can you handle large groups or private parties? Host your scout troop, church group, day camp, company outing or just a group of friends to Naperville Kayak for something different. If you have a group of 10 or more, contact us at (630) 300-4527 and we will find the best experience for your outing.