… celebrates our “city of water” by reconnecting NYC residents with our waterways, providing access and instruction for recreational kayaking, an energizing and fun sport for everyone.
Our Mission
To provide residents and visitors with educational and recreational paddling opportunities. Our programs raise awareness about estuary ecology, supporting the goal of restoring the natural beauty and health of New York Harbor for all to enjoy.
Kayaking with LICCB provides
Opportunities to experience New York City from the water, including trips for volunteers to paddle around Roosevelt Island, to Governor’s Island and to many other waterfront destinations around the boroughs
Free “walk-up” kayaking at Hallets Cove in Astoria; children are welcome if accompanied by a parent or guardian
Great exercise and beautiful views of Roosevelt Island, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn and the Bronx
Our territory ranges as far as Red Hook, South Bronx and we’ve even circumnavigated Manhattan Island…
The LIC Boathouse invites Roosevelt Island residents to learn more about their kayaking programs at two upcoming events. According to LIC Boathouse:
Friday, April 10th, 7p to 9p – New and Existing Volunteers Meet and Greet! – Join us at LIC Boathouse at 4601 5th Street, Long Island City in Queens for coffee, light snacks. We’ll have short presentations on what it’s like to volunteer with the boathouse then a Q and A session. Please sign up here to let us know you’ll be joining us!
Tuesday, April 28th, 2026 – 6pm to 9pm – Friendraiser Party at Culture Lab –Our first big splash will be our Friendraiser Party at the Culture Lab Gallery. We’re keeping ticket prices affordable so that everyone can participate. It will be a great evening to reconnect with each other and welcome newcomers before the busy paddling season starts.
This year we spotlight The NYC Water Trail. Everywhere the map is blue we consider to be our Sixth Borough. Whether you paddle or row, with us or another Boathouse, we’d hope you’ll celebrate with us at our friendraiser. If you’re new to boating or new to the neighborhood, you’re especially welcome to attend. Buy an extra ticket for a friend, a date or donate one to someone in need. But don’t miss the boat. Get your early bird tickets now. Let’s get ready for the summer!
Here’s the LIC Boathouse Kayakers paddling past Roosevelt Island
Sounds like fun, but just keep in mind that East River kayaking is not for novices. You are exposed to cold, polluted water–and tides in the East River are extremely strong.
What would be neat is for a small marina operation to be established on the Island, at least for tie ups, and for the opportunity for small sailboats and small boats to offer at moderate cost tours around this area. There are several areas near the ferry and the bridge that could make sense for a private operator.
Sounds like fun, but just keep in mind that East River kayaking is not for novices. You are exposed to cold, polluted water–and tides in the East River are extremely strong.
What would be neat is for a small marina operation to be established on the Island, at least for tie ups, and for the opportunity for small sailboats and small boats to offer at moderate cost tours around this area. There are several areas near the ferry and the bridge that could make sense for a private operator.