Policies & FAQs
If this doesn't cover your questions, give us a call!
Do the kayaks have weight limits?
Yes. Our small single kayaks can carry up to 190 lb., and our larger singles can carry up to 235 lb. The tandem boats can carry up to 450 lb.
Do renters need to be able to swim?
Safety is our top priority, so we require that all renters have the ability to swim. If your group includes a non-swimmer, ask about one of our guides attending your group on the water. A Guest taking a lesson or a guided tour can be a non-swimmer.
Is there an age minimum to paddle?
Kids need to be 16 years old to rent a stand up paddleboard, 5 years old to ride along in a tandem kayak, and at least 10 years old to paddle their own single kayak. ALL RENTERS MUST BE 18 years old TO SIGN A WAIVER. Minors are signed for by a parent or legal guardian.
Can kids under 18 come and rent equipment without adults?
The minimum age for being on the water without an adult is 16 years. They still must have a waiver filled out and signed by a parent or legal guardian. Younger than 16, please ask for one of our guides to serve as an escort for two or more youth. Sorry, no private escorting or instruction of anyone under 18.
Can dogs ride along?
Dogs may ride in a tandem kayak and must be no more than 25 lbs. Dogs in a single kayak with one paddler depends on combined weight and the conditions. Unfortunately, dogs cannot ride on the stand up paddleboards.
What is the longest duration we can rent a kayak or SUP for?
In most cases, the maximum rental time is 4 hours.
Can you rent a kayak without experience?
Yes! We spend extra time with you in orientation and paddling instruction to make sure you feel confident. An exception might be if the wind and tidal conditions are too challenging for a first time paddler.
What should I wear?
For both kayak and stand up paddling, anything but cotton! Jeans and thick hooded sweatshirt is about the worst thing. Board shorts, polyester leggings or pants and a long sleeve quick dry shirt, light windbreaker, wind pants, short or long wetsuit during the colder months are best choices.
Can you accommodate large groups?
We love large groups! We can launch up to about 40 guests at once. Large groups with youth need to have sufficient adult attendants on the water with them, preferably at a 1:8 ratio. Our guides can help lead your group on the water if needed.
Can you rent a stand up paddleboard without experience?
Absolutely! We'll make it easy and comfortable. We do ask that you follow our instructions for direction of travel though! We may decline a first time paddler if the winds or current pose too much of a challenge.
Do you have any craft that can carry three or more adults?
No. Sub Sea Tours rents canoes for several paddlers though!
Do you rent any motorized vessels?
No. If you are looking for a motorized boat rental, please contact Estero Adventures just down the street from us!
Do you sell kayaks and paddleboards?
Yes. However, since COVID, equipment availability has been reduced. We are not stocking new kayaks, but we do sell used kayaks on consignment. We do stock new stand up paddleboards but availability has been reduced. We also offer some demo kayaks which are sold elsewhere.
Which payment methods do you accept?
We accept all forms of payment.
Are kayaks and paddleboards allowed to go into the open ocean?
NO! All craft stay in the protected confines of the harbor. Morro Bay has very unpredictable and challenging offshore conditions.
Do you rent kayaks or paddleboards to be taken elsewhere?
All rental equipment must be launched and returned here at our location only. An exception is the carry-out inflatable SUP.
Do you offer gift cards?
Do you rent enclosed cockpit (sit-inside) kayaks?
No. Capsize is unlikely but does happen, and getting back into an enclosed kayak in our cold water is not that easy! Once a closed cockpit goes upside down and fills with water, 99% of renters will need rescue and recovery of the kayak by Harbor Patrol.
Do you offer any discounts?
Yes! Active college students, active military, 501c3 nonprofits and public schools will receive discounts.
Do renters need to wear the life jacket? All that is required of boaters is to carry a flotation device.
YES. Our insurance requires that vests/jackets are worn. You may bring your own if you like, as long as it is Coast Guard Approved.
Do you allow renters to fish off the kayaks or SUP's?
No, not at this time. Our kayaks are not equipped to safely hold and transport fishing poles.