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OPEN FOR SUMMER 2025

Booking is now open - Reserve for your paddle adventure today. 

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Welcome to the West River Paddling Co. located in the beautiful harbor town of Vermilion, Ohio! Our crew is waiting to provide the water lovers of the world with the opportunity to engage in unforgettable adventures along the Lake Erie Shoreline and Vermilion River Watershed. Whether you are looking to cruise at your own pace, hone in on some skills, or learn something new with our informative team… we have got you covered!

We welcome those both skilled and new to the world of paddle sports! Our guests can rest assured knowing that each paddler will receive prior instruction for their kayak, canoe or paddle board before setting off on your new adventure.

$20 / 1st Hour

($5 each additional 1/4 hour)
 

HALF DAY $50

(2.5- 4hr Block)
 

ALL DAY $70

(8hr Block – Must launch by 10:30AM)

$25 / 1st Hour

($5 each additional 1/4 hour)

HALF DAY $60

(2.5 – 4hr Block) 

ALL DAY $80

(8hr Block – Must launch by 10:30AM)

$25 / 1st Hour

($5 each additional 1/4 hour)

HALF DAY $60

(2.5 – 4hr Block) 

ALL DAY $80

(8hr Block – Must launch by 10:30AM)
OUR KAYAKS

Our Kayak Fleet & Weight Guidelines

Explore the kayaks we offer and find the right fit for your body type and paddling experience.
Each boat’s recommended weight range helps ensure safe and stable adventures on the Vermilion River.

Kayak – Old Town Vapor 10
Old Town Vapor 10
Kayak – Wilderness Aspire 105
Wilderness Aspire 105
Kayak – Old Town Vapor 12
Old Town Vapor 12
Kayak – Perception Prodigy 12
Perception Prodigy 12
Model Length Novice Comfortable Capacity Max Capacity
Old Town Vapor 10 10 ft 235 lbs 278 lbs 325 lbs
Wilderness Aspire 105 10 ft 6 in 290 lbs 340 lbs 400 lbs
Old Town Vapor 12 12 ft 270 lbs 319 lbs 375 lbs
Perception Prodigy 12 12 ft 2 in 250 lbs 300 lbs 350 lbs
OUR CANOES & TANDEMS

Our Canoe & Tandem Kayak Options

Whether you’re heading out with a partner, kids, or extra gear, our canoe and tandem kayak options deliver stability, space, and shared paddling experiences on calm waters. Canoes are capable of seating up to 2 adults and 1 to 2 small children.

Canoe & Tandem Kayak Weight Guidelines
Model Length Novice Comfortable Capacity Max Capacity
Sun Dolphin Scout SS 14 ft 550 lbs 625 lbs 765 lbs
Wilderness Pamlico 135T 13 ft 6 in 425 lbs 480 lbs 550 lbs
OUR PADDLEBOARDS

Our Paddle Board Fleet & Weight Guidelines

Discover the perfect paddle board for cruising the Vermilion River or relaxing on open water. Each board offers exceptional stability and is matched to ideal weight ranges for performance and safety.

Paddle Board Weight Guidelines
Model Length Novice Comfortable Capacity Max Capacity
BOTE Wulf Aero 10’4″ 10 ft 4 in 200 lbs 230 lbs 250 lbs
BOTE Breeze Aero 10’6″ 10 ft 6 in 215 lbs 245 lbs 275 lbs
BOTE Breeze Aero 11’6″ 11 ft 6 in 240 lbs 270 lbs 300 lbs
WEIGHT CAPACITY DEFINITIONS

How to Choose the Right Vessel

  • New to paddling? Stick to the Novice Capacity range for added stability and control.
  • Comfortable Capacity is ideal for most paddlers with a little experience and light gear.
  • Max Capacity includes paddler + gear, but we don’t recommend it for newer riders.
  • Note: Our team will outfit you with the most suitable kayak based on availability and your experience level. While specific model requests are welcomed, final placement is made by our staff for safety and balance reasons.
  • Not sure what’s best for your size or skill? Contact us and we’ll help match you to the right boat.

Choosing the right vessel starts with understanding how weight affects performance and safety.


Novice Capacity

A conservative range (20–25% below comfortable capacity)
Designed for newer paddlers or less confident riders. Staying within this range improves balance, tracking, and control across all vessel types — from kayaks and paddle boards to canoes. It minimizes the risk of tipping and makes learning easier on calm or slightly choppy waters.


Comfortable (Usable) Capacity

The sweet spot for stability and performance
This range includes your weight and basic gear — ideal for short to mid-range paddles. It allows for light-to-moderate cargo, well-balanced handling, and efficient paddling across various water conditions. Whether you’re solo or with a tandem partner, this is where most people paddle comfortably.


Maximum Capacity

The vessel’s upper limit — not recommended for beginners
Exceeding this weight range risks compromised flotation, flex, wobble, and poor tracking. Kayaks and canoes may ride low or swamp, while paddle boards may lose rigidity. Only experienced paddlers with well-distributed gear should operate near this limit — typically for longer journeys or heavier loads.


Note: Our team will match you with the ideal vessel based on your weight, skill level, and available equipment. While we welcome requests, we reserve the right to assign the safest and most appropriate craft based on real-time conditions and inventory.

Groups renting 6 vessels or more will receive 10% OFF
Groups renting 8 vessels or more will receive 20% OFF
Call for overnight rates
(440) 967-5292

Group Rates

Make it a group adventure and save big.

  • 6 or more vessels – 10% OFF total rental
  • 8 or more vessels – 20% OFF total rental

Discounts apply to a single checkout/payment.

Planning an extended trip? Call us for overnight rental rates and custom packages.

Group bookings must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

Do I have to make a reservation?

Reservations are not required, but they are very much recommended. While we accept walk-ins, it more convenient securing a craft by placing a reservation for your planned arrival window. 

Do you provide paddles and PFD's?

We provide all safety and paddle equipment with each watercraft rental. This includes your Personal Flotation Device, paddle and safety whistle. PFD’s must be worn and secure before each launch and will be asked to remain on while on your craft or along the shoreline.

Where can I launch my own vessel?

Unfortunately, we do not allow the launch of personal water crafts at our location due to marina policy. However, we are a 30 second drive from the public boat launch where you will find a self assisted launch. The cost is $3 and can be found at 777 W. River Rd, Vermilion Ohio, 44089. 

If you are planning a group outing, this location is only a 2 minute paddle away and makes a great meet up point.

Do you shuttle?

We do not shuttle. All rented equipment will return back to the launch point. You can paddle upriver about 3 to 3.5 miles for a more scenic trip, or to Lake Erie (on advisable days) about a 1/4 mile. Make a day and paddle both and at the end of your trip come back to the launch point for an assisted exit from your watercraft.

What should I bring?

Plan on how the outdoor elements may affect you. You may want to bring the following;

Bottled water and snacks
Sunscreen
Zip-Lock bags for belongings (we do not have them available)
Change of clothes
Water shoes or change of shoes
Sunglasses
Indians, Browns or Cavs ball cap
Bug repellent

Minimum age requirement

The minimum age to ride your own watercraft is 14 years of age. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a Parental Consent form signed and available at the time of registration. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult

Public beach access points.

Main Street Beach is the only public beach accessible from the water. All other beaches are private.

Can I bring alcoholic beverages?

In order to ensure a safe experience we prohibit alcoholic beverages on our trips.

There is NO SMOKING

We do not allow smoking while paddling in our equipment or wearing our PFD’s.

Can I pack a cooler, or bring snacks and beverages?

Absolutely! We ask that you bring all your disposables and recyclables back and will happily collect it upon your return. 

Are public facilities available along the route?

There are no public facilities along the river. Facilities are available at launch point only and available during your visit. All properties along the river are private. Please plan all trips accordingly.

Can I bring my pet with me?

At this time, we only allow K9 companions at a max weight of 35 lbs in Canoes Only. We do not allow animals that must be held due to their coats coming into contact with our PFD’s or padded seat rests. We do not allow animals that are kept in pet carriers due to the likelihood of a capsized vessel. If your pet is a Service Animal and does not fit within our acceptable criteria, paper work for your service animal must be provided. 

Contact
(440) 967 5292

Info@westriverkayak.com

HOURS OF OPERATION
Open daily 10AM – 6PM
Memorial Day to Labor Day
Last admission at 5 PM.
All vessels due back by 6 PM
 .

SITE LOCATION
655 W. River Rd.
Vermilion, OH  44089
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