Free Kayaking in Penn’s Landing

What does Philadelphia’s riverfront now have in common with New York City and Pittsburgh? Urban kayaking! Kayaking is one of the fastest growing sports in the country – and now Philadelphians have a chance to “test the waters” by kayaking for free in the Penn’s Landing Marina. Kayakers will be fitted with a PFD (lifejacket), given basic paddling and safety instructions, and helped into boats for about 20 minutes of paddle time. The marina offers relatively calm water separate from the main channel of the Delaware River.

The program launches Saturday, July 11th and the schedule is:

• Thursdays and Fridays: 4-7 pm
• Saturdays and Sundays: 12-4 pm
• Weather permitting

The first weekend was incredibly successful - 120 people got out on the water in kayaks! There are only 6 solo boats and 1 tandem (2-seater) so show up early and be prepared to wait your turn.

Check out the photo album of the first weekend posted below:

2009 Delaware River Sojourn

Philadelphia like they've never seen it before - from the water! On Saturday, June 27, about 50 kayakers participated in the last day of the 2009 Delaware River Sojourn. The Sojourn is a week-long kayaking and camping trip down sections of the Delaware River. Some kayakers had paddled the entire week (starting in New York state), while others joined for one-day.

Starting from Pennsauken, NJ, kayakers headed onto the Delaware River, underneath expansive bridges, past industrial and historic sites as well as natural landscapes like Petty Island. Kayakers continued down the river along the Philadelphia riverfront, and ended their journey at the Penn’s Landing Marina. Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter greeted kayakers and was honored as Lord High Admiral.

See a photo album of the trip below: