Below are the most common question we are asked on a regular basis. If these do not answer your specific question, please feel free to drop us a line.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN MY KAYAK TOUR?
With every Historic Bethlehem River Tour, guests will get to pilot their own kayak (or ride in a tandem), on a journey through the Metro Wilderness of the Lehigh Valley.
On our signature tour, the Steel Stacks Run, we begin at Sand Island in the heart of Historic Bethlehem. Each guest will be issued a kayak, paddle, and life jacket for the trip.
Complimentary photos of individuals and groups will be taken as they pass by the Bethlehem Steel Stacks. This is a truly unique photo opportunity! Photos will be emailed to the address given on the reservation form.
When you finish your kayak paddle, trade-in your kayak for a mountain bike and ride back on the Historic D&L Trail that runs along the river.
A courtesy shuttle back to Sand Island is available for anyone who does not want to ride a bike.
HOW DO I RESERVE A TOUR FOR ME OR MY GROUP
Use one of the direct links below or visit our Tours and Excursions page for more details
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
Cancellations made up to 10 days prior to a trip may be rescheduled or refunded. If you cancel within 10 days of your trip, we would be happy to provide gift certificates to have you come tour on another day. Gift certificates are good till the end of the current season. For extenuating circumstances, tours can be rescheduled for the next season.
Call 484-894-2973 for details.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING ON MY KAYAK TRIP
Swimsuits with a tee shirt work fine most days but always dress for the weather. Remember sunscreen, and a hat. Use eyeglass straps if you wear eyeglasses. A towel and change of clothes should be left in your vehicle. Remember, Synthetic or wool fabrics work best, cotton fabrics are the worst. Old tennis shoes or water shoes are the best footwear. NO BARE FEET OR FLIP-FLOPS.
Remember: don’t bring anything with you in the kayak that you are not comfortable losing to the river. (cell phones, keys, etc.) We have a key bag that we will lock up in the trailer for your safety.
CAN WE TIP OUR RIVER GUIDE?
Historic Bethlehem River Tours strives to provide a memorable experience for each guest on the river. River guides and the knowledge they share about the river and the area are a large part of the value of this experience. If you feel your guide has exceeded your expectations, appreciation in the form of a tip is always welcome. Typical tips are $5 -$10 dollars per guest and should be given directly to your guide.
WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?
At Historic Bethlehem River Tours, we run our kayaking tours rain or shine. If you decide that don’t want to tour for any reason, you can reschedule your tour for another time. In accordance with our cancellation policy, if you cancel a tour within 10 days of your trip, we will send you gift certificates to come back and take a tour another day. Gift certificates are good through the end of the current season. For extenuating circumstances, tours can be rescheduled for the next season.
Call 484-894-2973 for details.
DO I HAVE TO FILL OUT A LIABILITY WAIVER?
Yes. Every person that is participating in any activity with Historic Bethlehem River Tours is required to fill out a liability waiver. Anyone under the age of 18 needs a signature from a parent or guardian. Everyone will receive a liability waiver when they check-in.
You can also fill out e-waivers when registering and they will be in our system ready for the day of your trip.
CAN I GO ON THE KAYAKING TOUR IF I CAN’T SWIM?
Yes, you can still go kayaking. Knowing how to swim is not necessary but you do want to have a basic comfort with water and the ability to stay calm should you end up in the river.
You will be given a lifejacket and a safety briefing prior to your tour. Your lifejacket is to be worn at all times on the river.
ARE THERE HEALTH AND WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS FOR THIS TOUR?
Yes, You should be healthy and capable of getting back into your kayak should you fall out.
If you cannot confidently do this, we do not recommend this trip for you. With everyone’s safety in mind, we reserve the right to refuse service to those whom we believe are a risk to themselves and others.
