By Amber Blueford

Make new friends, get fit and see Baltimore from its beautiful waterways this summer with the Canton Kayak Club.

“Joining the CKC makes kayaking on the Inner Harbor so easy that you smile while you are doing it,” said club board member Rebecca Pepkowitz.

The Canton Kayak Club is a non-profit organization. Everyone on the staff is an extremely helpful volunteer. They give three hours of certified training to each member, and new members are invited to “Newbie Nights” where advanced kayakers can help them learn new skills and improve their paddling.

For $135.00, the Canton Kayak club offers the opportunity for people from all walks of life to get together and enjoy a great sport. Membership includes unlimited usage of the kayaks, paddles and safety gear, which are located in five different kayak docks around the Baltimore Harbor.

The season usually runs May to October, whenever the water temperature is at least 60 degrees. With over 80 boats in the fleet, members can always take full advantage of membership.

Complimentary happy hours are another way for members to get to know one another, with events held at restaurants and bars around the Baltimore Harbor. An online bulletin board is available for members who would like to have company or arrange group trips when they go out on the water. Occasional eco-tours are another thing the club offers to promote environmental awareness.

Canton Kayak Club is a great way to make new friends and have a blast. Don’t worry if you have never gone kayaking. The helpful staff will have you comfortable in no time.

Next time you are sitting around in the muggy city this summer, think about how beautiful and peaceful it is out on the water and give the Canton Kayak Club a call.

Kayak Docks in Baltimore:
Anchor Bay East Marina:
8500 Cove Road, Dundalk

Inner Harbor East Marina:
Lancaster Street, Inner Harbor East

Bond Street Wharf
Corner of Thames and Bond streets

Tide Point Office Complex & Waterfront Place
The end of Hull Street in Locust Point

Nick’s Fish House
2600 Insulator Drive in South Baltimore