Elevate your next corporate event with an urban kayaking adventure on Cleveland’s scenic Cuyahoga River. Choose from beginner or intermediate tours while paddling past iconic city sights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness and be comfortable with light physical activity for a few hours.
Wildlife
History
The Cuyahoga River has played a key role in Cleveland’s industrial growth and is famous for inspiring environmental cleanup efforts.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain water quality and river habitat have greatly improved the health of the Cuyahoga, benefiting local ecosystems and recreation.
Great Lakes Watersports
Elevate your next corporate event with an urban kayaking adventure on Cleveland’s scenic Cuyahoga River. Choose from beginner or intermediate tours while paddling past iconic city sights.
Great Lakes Watersports is a Cleveland, Ohio-based water recreation company offering parasailing, pontoon and speedboat rentals, captained cruises, jet ski rentals, and urban kayaking experiences.
The company operates on Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River, providing USCG-certified captains for captained cruises and supervised rides where noted. Parasailing flights lift riders up to 400 feet for panoramic views of Cleveland’s lakefront. The fleet includes a 22-foot Avalon Tritoon pontoon accommodating up to 13 people and a 24-foot 2022 Barletta Cabrio pontoon also seating up to 13, both equipped with Bluetooth audio and bimini tops. For faster outings, a 2022 Sea Ray SPX 230 23-foot bowrider seats up to 10 guests and includes shade and audio features. Captained Cruise options on Sea Ray and Ocean Pro vessels navigate the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie with opportunities to pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and other riverfront landmarks. Jet ski experiences use a Sea Doo GTI 130 with a 130 hp engine for one or two riders. Urban kayak rentals and guided corporate kayaking tours run on the Cuyahoga River—promoted as a top North American urban kayaking destination—with rental hours from 10am to 6pm. Seasonal evening "Unknown" events run Tuesdays and Fridays from June 1 to September 1, 7:30pm–9:45pm. Selected boats permit swimming, fishing, dogs; Bluetooth audio and bimini shade enhance comfort, jet ski rides are guided by expert staff.
Location
Cleveland, OH
Lake Erie & Cuyahoga River access
Group Capacity
Up to 13
Pontoon boats seat 13 passengers
Top Kayak Spot
Best Place (NA)
Cuyahoga River urban kayaking
Seasonal Nights
Tues & Fri
June 1–Sept 1, 7:30–9:45pm
Book parasailing, pontoons, captained cruises, jet skis, or kayak rentals — summer slots fill quickly.
Wear Quick-Drying Clothes
Dress in moisture-wicking or quick-drying layers to stay comfortable on the water.
Bring Sun Protection
Apply reef-safe sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure on the river.
Stay Hydrated
Even on cooler days, bring water to stay hydrated throughout your kayaking trip.
Listen to Your Guide
Follow safety instructions and paddling tips provided by your guide to ensure a smooth experience.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your belongings safe and dry while on the water.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from sunburn during long exposure.
summer
Lightweight Layered Clothing
Adjustable layers keep you comfortable as temperatures fluctuate.
spring
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial during any outdoor activity.