Boat 5 (Sandy Hook Canoe Cruise)

Gateway National Recreation Area - Sandy Hook Canoe Cruise

The Sandy Hook Canoe Cruise requires booking a minimum of two paddlers to occupy the front and rear paddling positions in the canoe. A maximum of three may ride in boat but only when the third occupant is a child age 14 or under (see canoe diagram). Tours are separated into boats to ensure proper seating arrangements, but all boats join the same tours at the same time.

Due to tidal conditions in the bay, the rear of the canoe (position A) requires a strong, adult paddler.
A child 14 years or older may occupy the front (position B) but will also require enough strength to paddle through possibly strong tides.
Experienced park rangers will outfit visitors with a pfd (personal flotations device), a whistle, a canoe and a set of oars for an early morning canoe cruise on the bay.
Rangers will review safety protocols, how to communicate on the water and basic canoeing techniques before departure.
Along the route to Skeleton Hill Island visitor take in breath taking views of Sandy Hook mainland and Sandy Hook Bay.
Visitors will likely observe shore birds, fish and possibly Diamondback terrapins while paddling.
Once the group reaches Skeleton Hill Island it will be much easier to communicate and ask questions.
Rangers will gladly discuss wildlife spotted in route, and on the island along with the cultural and natural history of the area.
Shore birds, turtles, fish, hermit crabs, snails and horseshoe crabs are observed regularly during the canoe tours.
Once the group has rested, they will paddle back to the launch site.
Canoe Tours will be cancelled if the wind speed is over 10mph, if the tidal bay is too choppy, if there is a potential rain storm or lightning/thunderstorm.
Select a date to see a list of times

Need to Know
- Wear water shoes and a hat. Bring water, snacks, bug spray and sun screen.
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Boat 5 (Sandy Hook Canoe Cruise)

Need to Know

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