Staten Island’s Kayak Tours Paddle Up in Tottenville

Staten Island’s kayak tours are making waves this winter, with Tottenville’s shores as the launchpad. Last night, guide Lena Carter led a dozen paddlers through Raritan Bay, dodging ice patches under a pink sunset. The route hugs wetlands, where herons strut and seals pop up—NYC’s wild side, unplugged. Carter’s a pro, calling out history like the old oyster beds that fed the city. ‘This is Staten’s secret—water tells it best,’ she says, steering steady.

The tours took off in January, doubling bookings as cabin fever hit. Carter’s $40 trips sell out fast—last night’s crew ranged from teens to a 60-something vet. A newbie flipped near a buoy, splashing laughs from the group. The bay’s calm but cold—dry bags and thermoses kept spirits up. A seal sighting sparked a paddle frenzy; phones stayed dry, barely. It’s raw adventure, Staten-style.

Some grumble—shore folks want peace, not paddle noise, and a trashed bottle washed up mid-tour. Rentals strain Carter’s stash; she’s scrambling for more kayaks. A rival outfit in St. George’s undercutting her, but her charm holds. Still, #KayakSI is trending, pulling Brooklynites across the ferry. Tottenville’s water game is strong, even in February.

Carter’s eyeing a night paddle for March, maybe glow sticks if the budget stretches. ‘NYC’s got soul out here—you just paddle to it,’ she says, hauling boats ashore. The tours are a win for Staten pride—nature meets grit. Whether you’re a pro or a rookie, it’s a ride worth taking. Book now; spring’s around the bend.