Ballard Kayak has opened on the beach at Golden Gardens (8498 Seaview Pl NW) just in time for the good weather to hit. The local business was started by Ballard couple Becca and John Guillote, with a little help from their dog Chaco.
The Guillotes have been Ballardites for 5 years and together have over a decade of outdoor experience including teaching rock climbing, leading cross-country youth expedition trips, and teaching a university class on kayaking and orienteering. They started Ballard Kayak “to educate customers on the history and ecology of their surroundings, provide exciting and unique water-based experiences for every skill level, and provide an avenue to new perspective,” says Becca.
Ballard Kayak’s rental prices are affordable at $25 per hour per boat and are offered to paddlers of all skill levels, including beginner paddlers, kids, and even well behaved pets! Once in the kayak, the customers “then have an opportunity to explore the dynamic ecosystem of the Puget Sound,” says Becca.
The local business also offers guided tours from the romantic Sunset on the Sound to the exciting “elevator ride” through the Ballard Locks. Customers can also purchase a Fusion Tour, where Ballard Kayak partners with other Ballard businesses to provide a special neighborhood adventure. “Have you ever been kayaking and beer-cycling in the same day? Hopped out of your kayak onto a mega-yacht?” questions Becca.
The Guillotes are excited to launch their new local business and share it with the community. “There is nothing we enjoy more than sharing our passion of the outdoors with others,” says Becca.
Want to rent a kayak? You can find Ballard Kayak under their big blue tent at Golden Gardens beach from Thursday – Sunday every week.
To find out more, reserve a kayak or book a tour click here. Check out their Facebook page here.
