We have answered the most common questions below. We are always happy to engage in a conversation so please feel free to contact us if you prefer or if we didn’t address your question below.
KAYAKING FAQs
What kind of kayaks do you have for rent?
We offer a variety of kayaks for your paddling fun. Our large fleet of single and tandem (2 person) kayaks provides options for users at every skill and comfort level.
Sea Kayaks- Great for most paddlers. The kayaks are longer and paddlers slide into the cockpit and most have rudder steering.
Sit on Top/Open Cockpit- These kayaks are recommended for those with mobility issues or wanting to have a child or dog as an added passenger. These kayaks have added stability.
What kind of standup paddle boards do you have for rent?
We have a fleet of all-purpose boards that are all high quality inflatable SUPs by Badfish. The boards come with a leash, bungies on the deck to hold your gear and even a water bottle holder.
Is Safety Gear included?
YES – as with all activities offered by Vashon Adventures safety is our number one focus. Personal flotation devices (PFDs aka. life jackets), bilge pumps and paddle floats are all offered as part of your kayak rental. Spray skirts are available upon request for most of our kayak styles. SUP users have traditional life jackets or adults can opt for the waist belt PFD.
PFDs are required while paddling in all US Coast Guard Inland Waterways including all of the Puget Sound.
Are there options that are safe for novice paddlers?
The Jensen Point Boathouse is located inside Quartermaster Harbor between Vashon and Maury Island. This 5+ mile long, well protected bay offers paddling that is suitable for novices and families. The bay temperatures are also typically warmer than the surrounding Puget Sound waters. That said, as with all kayaking, you should carefully consider the weather and your abilities when entering the water. In order to protect our guests, our hourly rentals are not available when small craft advisories have been issued and our staff reserves the right to close operations when conditions appear unsafe or to refuse service to individuals if their skill level is not adequate for the conditions.
We offer guided tours if you prefer to have an experienced paddler with you for your time on the water.
Tandem kayaks are more stable so if you are nervous, paddling with a friend, is a good option to consider.
Our team will talk to you about your skill level and make recommendations for boat and route selection. We also instruct paddlers about safety gear and paddling strokes to make the adventure safe and enjoyable.
Paddling outside of Quartermaster Harbor- we require paddlers renting from us to have self rescue skills to paddle our kayaks outside Quartermaster Harbor. Read below to understand why.
The Puget Sound waters Surrounding Vashon Island are deep and cold with an annual water temperature of 45 – 55 degrees Fahrenheit (7 – 13 degrees Celsius). Death from hypothermia is a serious concern in these waters and the ability to roll or re-enter the boat is required to avoid exposure. The currents are generally less than three knots flowing north with the drain (high to low tide change) and south with the flood (low to high tide change). Generally speaking, winds from the north or south result in more substantial wind driven waves than winds from the east or west, however trip planning should carefully consider all wind conditions and the direction of travel. If you are looking to paddle these waters, we strongly recommend you carefully consider if your knowledge and skills are adequate for the weather conditions, forecast and water temperatures. Our staff reserves the right to close or cancel operations when conditions appear unsafe or to refuse service to individuals if their skill level does not seem adequate for the conditions.
Weather and Trip Advice - We recommend you take the time to familiarize yourself with local water and weather patterns. Many of our staff have a great deal of paddling experience in these waters and can provide some recommendations HOWEVER trip selection, weather preparation and preparedness are your responsibility. When in doubt, bail out.
National Weather Service
https://marine.weather.gov/MapClick.php?zoneid=pzz135#.XDZhLFxKjD4
Can we move kayaks or paddle boards on a private vehicle?
No, we cannot allow our gear to be transported on private vehicles. If you are interested in a multi-day rental, we can schedule a drop off and pick up from agreed upon launch sites. This requires advanced notice and also a discussion of route and skill level of paddlers.
What should I wear?
We launch all kayaks and paddle boards from the beach meaning you will need to enter the water up to your knees. Many of the beaches have barnacles or other sharp hazards and we recommend you wear shoes appropriate for wading into water (flip flops often lose the battle with our beach, strapped shoes are a better choice). Clothing should be tolerant of water exposure and appropriate for the weather conditions. If you wear prescription glasses, it is always a good idea to secure them with croakies or the like. Sunscreen up and have a great time.
Are dogs allowed?
We are dog loving folks and are happy to help make this a fur-friendly experience. We have dog life jackets available for your fur babies and can suggest vessel selection based on the size of your pet.
Should I tip?
Our team will carry your kayaks and paddle boards to and from the water so you don’t have to. We have a tip jar in the boathouse. Thanks!
CAMPING FAQs
Do I need to make a reservation?
YES – Campsites must be reserved through our website. If you have questions about availability, please call or email. If you cannot book a date through our website, it indicates that date has already been reserved for that specific campsite.
Can I drive in to my campsite?
No – The campsites at Maury Island Marine Park (MIMP) are walk-in, paddle-in, or bike-in only. The campsites at the MIMP are a 0.6 mile walk from the parking lot down a county-maintained gravel road. It is about a 200-foot elevation loss going from the parking lot at SW 244th St. to the camp ground. For campsites at Lisabeula and Point Robinson, there is no overnight parking allowed, they are bike-in or paddle-in ONLY.
Are restrooms available and do they have potable water?
Multiple port-a-potties are available and maintained by King County or Vashon Park District. There is potable water at Point Robinson only. The spigot is near the white gate by the Keeper’s Quarters and path to the lighthouse. For the other parks, make sure to bring plenty of water with you!
Are campfires allowed?
NO – Due to the fire hazards, no campfires or beach fires are allowed in the parks. Propane fire pits are also prohibited.
Are camp stoves allowed?
YES - camp stoves and personal cook stoves are allowed. Please bring your own fuel source and do not leave them unattended while in use.
Can I bring my pet?
YES – Pets are allowed, please follow all of the park rules regarding leashes and be aware that there are often horses in the area.
Do campsites have picnic tables?
At Maury Island Marine Park, each campsite has a designated picnic table and a shelter area containing several tables near the camp sites for all park users to enjoy. Lisabeula and Pt Robinson have picnic tables in the camping area.
I am using my e-bike to travel to camp, is there a place to charge my battery?
Great choice! We have talked to some of our friends around town and here are a few options for charging your battery.
Jensen Point Boathouse (we are partial to this one)- go paddling while you charge in our office.
Camp Colvos Brewing- grab your favorite beverage and a snack while you charge at the brewery.
Nashi Tasting Room (weekends)- delicious ciders (both with and without alcohol) and a gorgeous setting, including sheep.
What happened to Blue Moon private campground?
We loved offering the private campground but sadly the location is no longer available.
Electric bike rentals
Didn’t Vashon Adventures rent electric bikes?
Yes, we rented electric bikes through 2023 and had to close the bike shop due to the increase in insurance costs.
If we didn’t answer your question, please send us an email or give us a call at 206.259.3978