1000 Island Kayaking is one of the best ways to see the islands! With their experienced tour guides to show you all the must-see locations and some of the hidden wonders that the islands have to offer. They have a wide variety of tours from half and full day guided tours and even a guided two-night camping excursion on an island! 

During our half day guided tour, they showed us the ropes of kayaking on the river before our departure. Once out on the water they took us into the heart of the islands, making a few stops along the way such as McDonald Island (formerly known as Hog Island because of the pigs that used to live there), which islands you can rent tents to camp for the night, and Half Moon Bay; an outdoor church where people would come by boat, kayak, or canoe, and can be on the water during the Sunday service. 

There are also some underwater treasures that you get to experience as they take you to see a shipwreck of a ship that is over 100 years old and is still sticking out of the water; it’s one of the only ships that you can see without having to go scuba diving to find! Throughout the 1000 Islands region there are actually over 1800 shipwrecks scattered beneath the waves. 

During the tour you may also get the opportunity to spot all kinds of wildlife like fish, turtles, blue herrings, and if you’re really lucky, maybe even a bald eagle. Stories of the history of the river, facts about the area and the guide’s tips make this activity fun for everyone and all skill levels! This is the perfect way to see the islands up close and personal and it’s great for the whole family; even folks who have never kayaked before can make it through the tour. Just be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen, bring plenty of water and maybe a snack to help you get the most of your trip on the water!

Written by the 1000 Islands Tourism Ambassadors, Kiana & Paige.