Paddle the Cuyahoga River with Great Lakes Watersports in Cleveland, Ohio. Experience scenic urban kayaking with single or double rentals and soak up stunning city views from the water.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness is sufficient; kayaking on calm urban waters requires moderate paddle strength and balance.
Wildlife
History
The Cuyahoga River played a crucial role in Cleveland’s industrial development and was central to environmental cleanup efforts in the late 20th century.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on maintaining the river’s water quality and supporting the return of native wildlife amid urban growth.
Great Lakes Watersports
Paddle the Cuyahoga River with Great Lakes Watersports in Cleveland, Ohio. Experience scenic urban kayaking with single or double rentals and soak up stunning city views from the water.
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 clothing
Choose synthetic or moisture-wicking fabrics to stay comfortable during your kayak trip.
Bring sunscreen
The river offers limited shade, so protect your skin from sun exposure while paddling.
Keep an eye on weather conditions
Check the forecast before heading out to avoid strong winds or sudden storms on the water.
Secure your belongings
Use waterproof bags or dry boxes to protect your phone and valuables from splashes.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Safety first—wear a PFD for every kayaking trip on the river.
Waterproof dry bag
Keep your belongings dry and safe from splashing water.
Lightweight water shoes
Protect your feet while easily entering and exiting the kayak.
summer
Sun hat and sunglasses
Protect your eyes and face from prolonged sun exposure on open water.
summer