MADISON RENTALS FIELD GUIDE
Paddling Madison’s Civic Edge: Two-Hour Rentals on Monona Bay
Two-hour rentals from Brittingham Boats put you on Monona Bay for direct waterline views of the Wisconsin State Capitol and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Monona Terrace—this guide explains the route choices, check-in, and what to bring.
Paddling Madison’s Civic Edge: Two-Hour Rentals on Monona Bay.
Launching from the calm, protected waters of Monona Bay, these rentals let you paddle into the heart of downtown Madison with the Capitol dome and Monona Terrace framed across the water—an immediate, low-effort way to experience the city from an uncommon angle.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Fast, friendly front-window check-in at Brittingham Boats
Arrive about 10 minutes before your rental and check in at the front window; the crew will outfit you and make sure you’re comfortable before you push off.
Rental lengths from short shoreline loops to a full Lake Monona circumnavigation
Options range from a relaxed 1‑hour shoreline paddle or a round trip to Monona Terrace, a 2‑hour outing that can extend to BB Clarke Beach, 3–4 hour trips up Wingra Creek, and a 4.5–5 hour circumnavigation of Lake Monona.
Staff recommendations to tailor your paddle
The knowledgeable crew are happy to point out favorite spots and suggest the right rental length and route for your pace and interests—just ask before you launch.
What the day feels like
What the paddle feels like
You push off from the protected calm of Monona Bay and glide past shoreline parks, city skyline glimpses, and the low, elegant profile of Monona Terrace. Two hours gives you room to explore past the downtown waterfront to BB Clarke Beach; longer rentals open routes up Wingra Creek or a full circuit of Lake Monona for a sustained day on the water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this outing—and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Two Hour Rentals center on a 2‑hour option, with additional lengths offered: 1 hour, 3–4 hours, and a 4.5–5 hour full Lake Monona circumnavigation.
Meet at 701 W Brittingham Pl, Madison; arrive about 10 minutes early and check in at the front window so the crew can outfit you.
The operator provides boats and basic gear; bring hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, non‑alcoholic beverages, fishing gear if you plan to fish, dry bags or phone cases, something to play with, and a towel.
This is an all‑ages activity and boats are sized for a wide range of body types; if you have health or mobility concerns, speak with the crew and they will try to find suitable options.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Two Hour Rentals experience?
Two Hour Rentals are two hours in length; the operator also offers 1‑hour, 3–4 hour, and 4.5–5 hour options for longer routes.
Where do I meet for my rental?
Meet at 701 W Brittingham Pl in Madison and check in at the front window; guests are asked to arrive about 10 minutes before their rental.
What should I bring with me?
The operator provides boats; guests commonly bring hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, non‑alcoholic beverages, fishing gear, dry bags or phone cases, and a towel.
Are there age or size restrictions?
This is an all‑ages activity and boats are sized for a wide range of body types; contact the crew with any health or mobility concerns and they will help find appropriate options.
Can I circumnavigate Lake Monona with a Two Hour Rental?
No—circumnavigating Lake Monona is listed as a 4.5–5 hour route; two hours allows extensions such as reaching BB Clarke Beach but not the full circuit.
Will staff help plan a route during check‑in?
Yes—the crew are available to recommend routes and point out favorite spots when you check in at the front window.