Open‑Water Kayaking on Narragansett Bay: A 3‑Hour Coastal Loop from Wickford Harbor

NORTH KINGSTOWN KAYAK FIELD GUIDE

Open‑Water Kayaking on Narragansett Bay: A 3‑Hour Coastal Loop from Wickford Harbor

A focused, 3‑hour open‑water paddle that follows a southerly route to Bissell Cove, Rome Point and Fox Island—this guide lays out the route, logistics and what to bring.

Open‑Water Kayaking on Narragansett Bay: A 3‑Hour Coastal Loop from Wickford Harbor.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
North Kingstown
Operator
Kayak Centre of Rhode Island
Category
Kayak
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Beyond Wickford’s break wall the Narragansett Bay Coastal Tour pushes into open water, following a scenic southerly route as paddlers explore North Kingstown’s coves and beaches — notably Bissell Cove, Rome Point and Fox Island. The trip is built for paddlers who want more challenge and distance than the Wickford Harbor Tour.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

Southerly Open‑Water Loop
THE ROUTE

Southerly Open‑Water Loop

The tour departs Wickford Harbor and follows a scenic southerly route into open water, visiting signature North Kingstown stops including Bissell Cove, Rome Point and Fox Island.

Three Hours on the Water
THE DURATION

Three Hours on the Water

Expect roughly three hours of paddling time—enough to move beyond sheltered harbor water and sample several coves and beaches along the coast.

For Experienced Paddlers
THE SKILL

For Experienced Paddlers

This is an open‑water tour intended for paddlers with prior kayaking experience; the operator sets an age minimum as well.

What the day feels like

What the Paddle Feels Like

You push past the harbor break wall and trade the sheltered chop of the inlet for a broader bay: a measured, open‑water paddle that links small beaches and coves. The flow of the tour is deliberate—portaging through short stretches of exposed water between Bissell Cove, Rome Point and Fox Island—offering sustained paddling punctuated by shoreline exploration.

Southerly Open‑Water Loop

THE ROUTE

Southerly Open‑Water Loop

The tour departs Wickford Harbor and follows a scenic southerly route into open water, visiting signature North Kingstown stops including Bissell Cove, Rome Point and Fox Island.

Three Hours on the Water

THE DURATION

Three Hours on the Water

Expect roughly three hours of paddling time—enough to move beyond sheltered harbor water and sample several coves and beaches along the coast.

For Experienced Paddlers

THE SKILL

For Experienced Paddlers

This is an open‑water tour intended for paddlers with prior kayaking experience; the operator sets an age minimum as well.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip works for—and who should look elsewhere.

1
Experienced PaddlersWell matched: the tour is designed as an open‑water experience for paddlers who already know how to handle a kayak beyond sheltered harbors.
2
Older Teens & AdultsAppropriate for participants aged 16 and up who have prior kayaking experience.
3
BeginnersNot ideal: prior kayaking experience is required, so true beginners should choose an introductory harbor tour first.
4
Families with Young ChildrenLimited fit: the age minimum (16+) and experience requirement mean this tour is generally unsuitable for families with younger children.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The tour includes about three hours on the water.

What to Bring

Bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet, a water bottle and snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses/hat, a dry bag for phone/keys (available for purchase), and a towel or dry change of clothes.

Logistics & Meeting

Park in the lot across from the main store at 70 Brown Street and walk to the waterfront meeting point at 10 Phillips Street (at the end of the street by the bridge). There is no parking at the launch site; arrive roughly 15 minutes early to get geared up.

Cost & Eligibility

The advertised rate is $80 per person; participants must be at least 16 years old and have prior kayaking experience.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the tour?

Approximately three hours on the water.

What is the minimum age and experience level required?

Participants must be at least 16 years old and previous kayaking experience is necessary.

Where do I park and where is the meeting point?

Park in the lot across from the main store at 70 Brown Street and walk to the waterfront meeting location at 10 Phillips Street (end of the street by the bridge). There is no parking at the launch site; plan to arrive about 15 minutes early.

What route and stops does the tour include?

The tour follows a scenic southerly open‑water route from Wickford Harbor that includes Bissell Cove, Rome Point and Fox Island.

What should I bring with me?

Bring shoes you can get wet, a water bottle and snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses/hat, a dry bag for phone/keys (available for purchase), and a towel or dry change of clothes.

Is this tour more advanced than the Wickford Harbor Tour?

Yes. The Narragansett Bay Coastal Tour is positioned for paddlers who want more adventure than the Wickford Harbor Tour, venturing into open water and visiting additional coves and beaches.