AtlanticKayak Company, located in Fort Washington, Maryland, is just a short drive from Washington, D.C. (for those dependent on public transit, try taking the yellow line down to King Street & taking a cab for the 20 mile ride, or better yet, hop in a ZipCar or rental). It’s easy to miss the little shack at the far end of the marina, but it’s there. We went on the sunset Piscataway Tour, which explored the marshy area around Fort Washington, & briefly paddled out to the Potomac River. While paddling, we saw several bald eagles, an otter (a first for our guide) & lots of birds. I was actually really surprised how much wildlife we saw, so close to an urban area.
Since we’re experienced kayakers, we chose to paddle in single kayaks & enjoyed the freedom they afforded. However, beginners should choose tandem kayaks. Unlike the ones we had been on in Maine, these tandems were open, meaning you don’t have to mess with a spray skirt. You might get a little wet, but they’re definitely cooler, especially in the humid mid-Atlantic air.
After our tour, we chatted with the owner about their kayak rentals & lessons. She recommended we both take safety rescue classesbefore we try an ambitious 20 mile paddle up the river to Washington. Since they’re closing up shop for the year (they do have a few scheduled tours left though), I guess that will be a priority for next spring!
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