Day Trip from Boston: Kayak Castle Neck River at Crane Estate

(1 Review)
  • From North Station
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Tour Duration: 4 hours

Paddling Through Paradise: Kayaking the Castle Neck River | The Details

Experience the stunning natural beauty of the Crane Wildlife Refuge from a whole new perspective—by kayak! This guided paddling adventure takes you through quiet salt marshes, tidal rivers, and serene estuaries, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Crane Estate. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and coastal tranquility.

What You’ll Experience

🛶 Guided Kayaking Excursion – Paddle through the calm waters of Essex Bay and the Crane Wildlife Refuge alongside expert guides who’ll share the ecology, wildlife, and history of this extraordinary landscape.

🌿 Scenic Salt Marshes & Estuaries – Glide past golden marsh grasses, winding creeks, and hidden channels teeming with birdlife and coastal creatures.

🏖️ Free Time at Crane Beach – After your paddle, enjoy time to relax, sunbathe, grab a snack at the Crane Beach Snack Shack or stroll along the pristine sands of Crane Beach—one of the most beautiful beaches in Massachusetts.

What's Included

  • Weekend Commuter Rail Pass
  • Step-by-step instructions on how to get to North Station & what train to take
  • Transportation from the outlying station to the activity and back
  • ACA Certified Guide
  • Single Ocean Kayak Rental
  • Life preserver and paddle

What to Bring

  • Sunscreen/sun protection
  • Snacks
  • Water
  • Swimwear, or clothes you don't mind getting wetIf you want to hang out at the beach post-tour we recommend bringing beach towels as well

Why You’ll Love This Tour

✔️Great for Nature Lovers & Outdoor Enthusiasts – A fun, low-key adventure in a protected coastal habitat.
✔️ Beginner-Friendly – Easy-to-navigate waters and expert guides make this a stress-free introduction to kayaking.
✔️ Breathtaking & Off-the-Beaten-Path – Discover a lesser-seen side of the North Shore’s iconic Crane Estate.
✔️ Seamless & Stress-Free – Round-trip transportation from Boston is included.

Need-to- Knows:

there are restrooms, showers, and changing areas at the beach for your connivence

Please note: Per the Trustee’s guidelines Participants must be competent swimmers and age 15 or older. 

Sample Itinerary

Please note that this will vary based on the departure time you select. Actual timeline will be sent to you upon booking your tour

11:15pm

Arrive to North Station to catch the 11:30pm Newburyport line train to Ipswich

*Note: You may be directed to a different arrival station based on the departure time you select. Please refer to your booking details for more information.

11:30am

Your train to Ipswich departs

12:21pm

Arrival at Ipswich Station, when you exit the station our private van will be waiting for you

12:45pm

Arrival by van to Crane Beach, the starting point of your tour and where your guide will meet you.

1:00p- 3:45pm

Enjoy your  Kayak with an ACA Certified Kayak Instructor

3:45-4:30pm

Time on your own to explore enjoy Crane Beach and grab a snack at the snack shack

4:45pm

Board the bus back to the station

5:20pm

Your train back to boston departs

6:20pm

Arrival back to Boston

We will also send these details along via email with more information on how to get to/from North Station upon booking. Your train ticket will be emailed to you 48 hours in advance of the trip.

A Trustees of Reservations Property

Crane Estate is part of The Trustees of Reservations, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting Massachusetts’ most treasured landscapes and historic sites. Founded in 1891, The Trustees manage over 100 special places across the state, from grand estates to scenic trails, ensuring these cultural and natural landmarks remain accessible for future generations. 

Price
From$115
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Have questions or interested in a private group tour?
Send us an email!


contact@keolismassadventures.com

1 Review
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Noriko V

Solo Traveller

Everything about this tour was wonderful for me. People were very nice. Small group with lots of hands for a beginner kayaker like me. Early morning without crowds The sand dune was amazingly beautiful with low tide. It’s so different from other beaches, I love Crane beach! I will go back.

08/25/2024