Crew Paddle Experience
A private, fully guided group paddle designed for friends, celebrations, and social gatherings looking to experience Chicago together from the water.
Built around the group
The Crew Paddle Experience was created for groups looking to share time together in a relaxed and social setting on the Chicago River.
Unlike a standard kayak rental, this is a fully guided private experience designed specifically for groups who want something more connected, organized, and memorable.
Starting from Ping Tom Park, participants paddle together along the South Branch of the Chicago River while guides remain on the water with the group at all times helping create an experience that feels welcoming, smooth, and approachable for all experience levels.
Whether it’s a celebration, birthday, gathering with friends, or simply an excuse to experience the city differently, the Crew Paddle Experience is designed around movement, connection, and shared moments on the water.
"Had a great time on the river! Staff were super friendly and informative. The equipment was great and the views from the park and river can't be beat. We're excited to come back and do a tour with them!"
Melissa Poole - Google Maps
What to expect
The experience begins at Ping Tom Park, where the group is welcomed by the team and guided through a simple preparation and check-in process before heading onto the river.
Each participant receives:
A kayak and paddle
A life vest
Basic kayaking instruction
Guided support throughout the experience
Before launching, participants receive a short introduction focused on comfort, safety, and basic paddling techniques to help everyone feel confident before entering the water.
Once on the river, the group follows a guided route along the South Branch toward the Willis Tower area and back while guides remain present on the water throughout the experience.
The atmosphere is intentionally social, relaxed, and beginner-friendly allowing the group to focus on enjoying the experience together while the Collective handles guidance, flow, and support.
Advance reservation is required, and scheduling is flexible based on group availability.
What is included
Who this experience is for
Everything included for your group
Private guided paddle experience
Kayaks and paddles
Life vests included
Introductory kayaking instruction
Guided route along the South Branch
On-water support from trained staff
Beginner-friendly environment
Flexible scheduling for groups
Designed for groups looking to share the moment
This experience is ideal for:
Friend groups
Birthday celebrations
Bachelor and bachelorette outings
Social gatherings
Community groups
First-time paddlers
Private outdoor group experiences
No prior kayaking experience is required.
The Crew Paddle Experience was designed to make group experiences on the water feel approachable, guided, and memorable for everyone involved.
