Hit the Water: Boating Across Massachusetts

Experience Massachusetts from a new point of view. Whether joining a public program, renting equipment, or taking a self-guided tour, there are ample opportunities for boaters of all levels to make memories on the water this summer at select Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuaries. 

Rent a Canoe, Kayak, or Paddleboard  

Need gear? No problem. Several wildlife sanctuaries have canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards to rent for a self-guided experience. 

Meander Down the Ipswich River  

The Ipswich River winds through Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield and boasts serene sights by canoe. At the edge of the slow-flowing water, boaters watch Great Blue Herons fishing, turtles basking, and cavity-nesting birds such as Wood Ducks in the trees lining the river.  

Canoe rentals are available to members from May-October on a first come, first served basis. 

Canoe Wildlife Pond  

Spend a peaceful afternoon floating on Wildlife Pond at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary in Princeton. This active beaver habitat offers unforgettable opportunities for boaters of all levels to enjoy wildlife experiences on the water. Paddlers can spot a wide variety of species including Belted Kingfishers, Hooded Mergansers, woodpeckers, mink, beavers, River Otters, and plenty of reptiles and amphibians.  

Canoe rentals are available May-October whenever the Nature Center is open.  

Sightsee on Sengekontacket Pond  

The picturesque Sengekontacket Pond on Martha’s Vineyard is best enjoyed on the water. Reserve a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary in Edgartown and head out on a self-guided treasure hunt to discover the stories behind the pond’s people, places, and wildlife. Float near Sarson Island to spot shorebirds and look for salt marsh species in the wetlands surrounding the sanctuary. With single and double kayaks and two stand-up paddleboards available, grab a friend and enjoy a perfect island day.  

Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available on weekdays from May-October with reservations. Contact the sanctuary to reserve. 

BYOB (Bring your Own Boat)  

Pack up your boat and gear and head to a wildlife sanctuary. 

Brewster’s Woods, Concord  

While you can't start your paddling adventure at Brewster's Woods Wildlife Sanctuary in Concord, you can make a pit stop during your trip down the Concord River. The river-access temporary boat storage allows you to hop out of the water and take a stroll through the sanctuary before resuming your adventure down the river.  

Arcadia, Easthampton & Northampton  

Take off in your canoe or kayak from the boat launch on Old Springfield Road in Northampton. Starting at the edge of the Oxbow River, paddlers can turn into Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, going under the Old Springfield Road bridge and continuing up the Mill River for views from within the wildlife sanctuary. 

Join a Paddling Program or Nature Cruise 

Sign up for a naturalist-led paddle program and boat cruises to learn about local ecology and the wildlife living beneath the water’s surface, overhead, and on the shore.