Marbin on the MKE River: Kayaks, a Floating Concert and a Riverfront Afterparty

MILWAUKEE KAYAK FIELD GUIDE

Marbin on the MKE River: Kayaks, a Floating Concert and a Riverfront Afterparty

An evening paddle along the Milwaukee and Menomonee Rivers launching from Twisted Fisherman, capped by live music aboard the Funktoon and an afterparty on shore—essential for paddlers who go for music as much as the current.

Marbin on the MKE River: Kayaks, a Floating Concert and a Riverfront Afterparty.

Duration
5-8pm
Location
Milwaukee
Operator
Funk Enterprises LLC
Category
Kayak
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Paddle the Milwaukee River at sunset, launch from Twisted Fisherman, drift alongside a floating stage as Marbin grooves from the Funktoon, then step ashore for an afterparty and more live music—an urban river night designed around paddling and performance.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE SCENE

A floating concert on the river

This is a paddle built around live music: Marbin performs from the Funktoon as participants watch and listen from kayaks on the Milwaukee and Menomonee Rivers—an uncommon way to experience a concert.

THE LAUNCH

Twisted Fisherman as your river gateway

Participants launch from Twisted Fisherman and return there for the evening afterparty, making the bar both start point and finish line for this river circuit.

THE AFTERPARTY

Shoreline music and mingling

After the on‑water set, an afterparty at Twisted Fisherman features the Cream City Hotclub—so the night continues on land after paddling ends.

What the day feels like

What the night feels like

Expect a three‑hour evening flow: check in with Milwaukee Kayak Company, launch from Twisted Fisherman, glide alongside the Funktoon as it sets sail, pause for a set break near The Harp, then return to Twisted Fisherman in time for an on‑shore afterparty—an itinerary that alternates paddling and performance.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this event suits—and how group logistics are handled.

1
Music loversThis outing centers on live performance from a floating stage, making it ideal for paddlers who prioritize waterfront concerts and a communal music experience.
2
Evening paddlersThe event runs in the evening (paddling scheduled 5–8 p.m.), so it suits paddlers comfortable navigating the river at dusk and participating in a timed group itinerary.
3
Groups and partiesGroups can charter a Duffy Boat for up to 11 passengers (contact [email protected] for details), making this workable for larger groups that prefer a private vessel.
4
Renters & casual paddlersThe operator offers single and tandem kayak rentals for participants who don’t bring their own craft, accommodating casual or first‑time paddlers who want gear provided.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Paddling is scheduled from 5:00–8:00 p.m.; check‑in opens after 4:00 p.m. with Milwaukee Kayak Company at the west end of the docks.

What to Bring / Rentals

Ticket options include launching your own kayak ($20), single kayak rental ($50), tandem rental ($90). For group charters, a Duffy Boat (11 passengers) is available—email [email protected] for details.

Meeting & Launch

Participants check in with Milwaukee Kayak Company after 4:00 p.m. and launch from Twisted Fisherman at 4:30 p.m.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

When does the paddle take place?

Paddling is scheduled from 5:00–8:00 p.m.; check‑in opens after 4:00 p.m.

Where do I check in and launch?

Check in with Milwaukee Kayak Company at the west end of the docks after 4:00 p.m.; launch is from Twisted Fisherman at 4:30 p.m.

What are the ticket and rental options?

Options include $20 to launch your own kayak, $50 for a single kayak rental, and $90 for a tandem rental; a Duffy Boat charter for 11 passengers is available by contacting [email protected].

Will there be music on and off the water?

Yes—Marbin performs from the Funktoon during the on‑water portion, and an afterparty band (Cream City Hotclub) plays at Twisted Fisherman starting at 8:00 p.m.

How long is the full event including the afterparty?

The on‑water paddle runs 5:00–8:00 p.m., with an afterparty scheduled at Twisted Fisherman starting at 8:00 p.m.; the on‑water timeline is planned around those times.

Who operates this event?

The operator is Funk Enterprises LLC, presenting the MKE River Roundup powered by Joy Engine.