The Charles River extends into Boston Harbor, right next to the city's magnificent downtown skyline. Paddle yourself or take tours offered by a handful of companies. One route brings you past the Charlestown Navy Yard and big ships like the U.S.S. Constitution and the U.S.S. Cassin Young. You'll also pass the original Charles River Dam built in 1910, Nashua Street Park and the Zakim Bunker Hill Bridge. If you want romance, leave right as the sun is setting for ambiance.
Located in East Boston, the Belle Isle Marsh Reservation is Boston's last remaining salt marsh and preserves 152 of the marsh's 241 acres, according to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. It's an ideal place for a kayak ride. You'll see bird species such as herons and falcons, salt marsh plants, wildlife and a landscaped park.
The national park area, which consists of 34 islands off Boston Harbor, is a great setting to sea kayak. Park rangers, and professional kayaking instructors on special days, give tours around the harbor leaving from Grape Island, known for its camping. The Boston Harbor Web site offers advice that all kayakers should heed: "The harbor is an active port used by HUGE cargo ships and tankers. They cannot stop to avoid a kayak!"
The Ipswich River sits on Boston's North Shore and offers a peaceful, yet challenging ride for kayakers and canoers. You'll pass swampy wetland areas that offer a prime place for bird watching along the way. More experienced riders will enjoy the spots where the river flows fast during the spring runoff.
