Can I show up and rent a kayak?

All kayaks must be reserved in advanced. You can reserve a kayak up to two hours before the start of the rental. If you would like to go out on shorter notice, call 757-744-3408 to check availability.

Where are you located?

Meet us at 4414 Colley Ave, Norfolk, VA

Kayaks launch from the Highland Park Veterans Kayak Launch

Will you provide a life Jacket?

All rentals will come with a United States Coast Guard approved life jacket.

Do I need to have previous experience?

No!  Norfolk Kayak Rentals is open to all experience levels. 

Are there any age limits?

Participants 13 and under are required to be in a tandem kayak with a parent or guardian. Participant must also be at least 40 inches tall. 

Infants are allowed, but the renter is required to provide their own infant life vest. Infants must remain in lap of parent or guardian at all times.

You must be 18 or older to rent a kayak from Norfolk Kayak Rentals.  Ages 16-17 may operate a kayak without a parent or guardian present on the water, but the parent or guardian must be present at the time of rental.  Ages 14+ may independently operate a kayak under the supervision of a parent or guardian on the water at all times.

Are you ADA Accessible.

Yes, we launch kayaks off of an EZ-Dock EZ Launch.  

Where can I kayak?

One hour kayak rentals can kayak in between the Hampton Boulevard Bridge and the Granby Street Bridge.  There are several inlets to explore and plenty of ground to cover here during your rental.

Two hour kayak rentals can kayak in between the Hampton Boulevard Bridge, Lakewood Bridge and the Lafayette Bridge. 

You are responsible for keeping track of time and making sure you are back when your rental is due.

View our map

What type of kayaks do you have?

We rent sit on-top, sit inside and tandem kayaks.

Will I get wet?

Yes.  Unless you capsize or fall in the water, you will not get soaked; however, being on the water comes with getting wet.  We would advise wearing a bathing suit and bringing a towel.

Can I bring food and drinks on my kayak rental?

You can bring food and drinks on your kayak.  Absolutely no alcohol.  You must take ALL trash with you at the end of your kayak rental and leave no trace.  We strive to keep our river as clean as possible and that starts with you!  A $10 cleaning fee will be charged if any trash is left in your kayak. 

What happens if it storms, rains or is too windy to kayak?

We closely monitor the weather and will not send out any renters if there is a chance of inclement weather.  Additionally, all rentals will be canceled if there are sustained winds of 15 MPH or higher.  Any cancellation due to inclement weather will receive a credit for future date.

Can I swim in the Lafayette River?

We do not recommend swimming in the Lafayette River.  It is not dangerous and you don’t need to worry if you capsize or fall in, however, it is not commonly used for recreational swimming. 

What happens if I need to cancel my rental?

Cancellations made over 24 hours in advance will receive a credit for a rental at a future date.  Cancellations made with less than 24 hour notice will not be issued a credit.  Any cancellation due to inclement weather, including but not limited to storms or wind, will receive a credit for future date.

What are your late fees?

Late fees are $10 for every 15 minutes your rental is late. If you are 30 seconds late, don't worry, we're not charging you.  However, there is no grace period for late rentals and you will be subject to full or pro-rated late fee.

Do your kayaks have a weight limit?

Our single kayaks have a weight limit of 270 lbs. Our tandem kayaks have a weight limit of 400 lbs.

Do you have parking?

We do not have any parking. There is plenty of street parking on Colley Avenue, 44th Street and 45th Street.

Do you have a bathroom?

We do not have a bathroom. There are no public restrooms available.

Do you allow pets?

While we love animals, we do not allow pets on our boats to prevent possible damage.