Discovering Cape Cod’s Great Marsh by Kayak: A Review of RideAway Adventures
If you’re looking for a way to see Cape Cod from a fresh perspective, a kayak tour in the Great Marsh is a fantastic choice. For just $50 per person, you get about three hours of paddling through one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich areas on the Cape. Located in East Sandwich, the tour is offered by RideAway Adventures, a company renowned as the best adventure outfitter on Cape Cod for twelve years running. Their customer-focused approach, with top-of-the-line equipment and convenient transportation, makes this an accessible, relaxed experience for nearly everyone with moderate physical fitness.
What we love most about this tour is how easy and stress-free it is. The process is seamless — their team handles all equipment staging and transportation, so you just need to arrive, get briefed, and launch from a sandy beach. Plus, the stunning views of the marsh and coastline make every paddle stroke worthwhile. On the downside, since the trip is self-guided at your own pace, it might be less suitable if you prefer a guided, narrated experience. This adventure suits those who enjoy independence, wildlife watching, and beautiful, unspoiled scenery.
Key Points

- Locally loved: Riding with RideAway Adventures means supporting a Cape Cod-based business with a stellar reputation.
- Flexible experience: You paddle at your own pace, making it perfect for leisurely explorers.
- Top-tier gear: High-quality equipment ensures comfort and safety.
- Wildlife and scenery: Expect to see abundant wildlife and stunning vistas of the Great Marsh and coastline.
- Convenient logistics: The company handles all staging and transportation, simplifying your day.
- Book ahead: The tour is popular, typically booked 9 days in advance.
An In-Depth Look at the Kayak Tour

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The Location: East Sandwich’s Great Marsh
The Great Marsh in East Sandwich is one of Cape Cod’s best-kept secrets. It’s a vast, protected estuarine area teeming with bird life, fish, and plant species. Its natural beauty is unmatched, offering a peaceful respite from busier tourist spots. Paddling through these waters gives you a close-up experience of the marsh’s serenity and diverse ecosystems, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
What to Expect at the Meeting Point
The tour begins at 449 MA-6A in East Sandwich, a straightforward spot with easy access. The RideAway team is there to welcome you, give a quick rundown of the area, and help you launch from a sandy beach. They handle all logistics, including transporting the equipment, so you don’t need to worry about lugging kayaks yourself.
Equipment and Preparation
The top of the line kayaks are well-maintained and comfortable, with supportive seats that reviewers have appreciated. Their equipment is described as being in excellent condition, which is crucial for a hassle-free paddling experience. Since the tour is self-guided, you’ll receive guidance on the best routes, but you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace. Participants should have moderate physical fitness, which means you’ll need to be comfortable with paddling for a few hours but don’t need to be an athlete.
The Paddling Experience
Once on the water, you’ll glide through calm marsh channels, passing reed beds, tidal creeks, and perhaps catching sight of wildlife like herons, egrets, and ducks. The reviews highlight how beautiful the coastline in East Sandwich is, with one reviewer calling it a “spectacular” area. Paddleboards are also available for delivery, which is a bonus if you prefer a stand-up paddleboard to a kayak.
Highlights and Review Quotes
One reviewer summed it up as a “great experience,” mentioning that they rented kayaks and took their own tour out to the ocean, emphasizing the excellent equipment and comfortable seats. They described their day as a “10/10,” noting the spectacular coastline and the creek leading out to sea. Another reviewer appreciated the local knowledge shared by staff, who suggested scenic routes and points of interest, demonstrating the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
Who Is This Tour For?
This experience is ideal for adventurers who enjoy self-guided exploration, wildlife viewing, and scenic tranquility. It’s suitable for families, couples, or solo paddlers who are comfortable on the water and want to see a less touristy side of Cape Cod. Since the company provides all logistics, it’s also great for those who want a hassle-free way to enjoy the marsh without worrying about equipment or transportation.
Practical Details: Booking and Cancellation
The tour costs $50 per person and can be booked about nine days in advance, which indicates good availability for planning ahead. The process is straightforward with a mobile ticket, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, providing peace of mind.
Why We Think This Is a Great Choice
The combination of top-quality gear, local expertise, and a scenic, wildlife-rich environment makes this kayak rental in the Great Marsh a fantastic value. For $50, you get around three hours of flexible paddling in a wildlife sanctuary, supported by a reputable company that handles all logistics. The reviews reinforce how beautiful and peaceful the experience is, with many mentioning the excellent service and spectacular scenery.
This tour is especially suited for those who want to explore independently but with the security of a well-organized outfitter. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet immersive way to see Cape Cod’s natural beauty, this trip offers an authentic, memorable experience.
FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or beginners?
While no specific age restrictions are mentioned, the tour requires moderate physical fitness, so children or very beginner paddlers should be comfortable on the water and possibly accompanied by experienced adults.
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
Since this is a self-guided experience, basic kayaking skills are helpful, but the company’s staff provides guidance on launching and route options, making it accessible for most paddlers.
What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, and comfortable clothing suitable for water activities. The company supplies top-notch equipment, so extra gear isn’t necessary.
Can I rent paddleboards instead of kayaks?
Yes, paddleboards can be delivered to your location, as some reviews mention, making it easy to try a different style of paddling.
Is the trip weather-dependent?
Yes, like all outdoor activities, it’s best to check the weather forecast. The company’s flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours) allows you to reschedule if needed.
How long in advance should I book?
Booking about 9 days in advance is typical, suggesting good availability if you plan ahead.
Is transportation included?
Yes, the company handles equipment staging and transportation, so you simply arrive, launch, and enjoy.
Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this activity.
To sum it up, if you’re eager to see Cape Cod’s stunning marshlands at your own pace, RideAway Adventures’ kayak rentals deliver a perfect mix of scenic beauty, wildlife watching, and hassle-free logistics. It’s a smart choice for nature lovers, solo explorers, or families wanting a relaxed, beautiful day on the water. With top equipment, local expertise, and excellent reviews, this tour offers real value and an authentic taste of Cape Cod’s natural splendor.
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