Broad Creek Excursions

Broad Creek. Photo courtesy of Paula Shannon.

Scroll down for dates and tours! We are excited to partner with our friends at Quest Adventures to host guided tours along Broad Creek in historic Laurel, DE this summer and fall! Broad Creek flows into the Nanticoke River, one of the most wild and scenic rivers on Delmarva. The waterways are teeming with birds and other wildlife, and they have a rich history dating back to the First People of the Chesapeake region, the Nanticokes. On our guided tours, you’ll also learn about Captain John Smith, Harriet Tubman, Patty Cannon and the shipbuilding industry of nearby Bethel, DE, that produced world-famous sailing rams. Invite your friends on Facebook!

Photos from the Quest Adventures Kayak Rental in Laurel, DE.

We will paddle from the Quest Adventures Kayak Rental in Laurel, DE, approximately three miles to the bridge in Bethel, DE, and then turn around and head back to Laurel. The total trip length is about six miles on the mostly narrow, forested headwaters of Broad Creek. Although Broad Creek is tidal, the tides and wind on this gentle paddle are generally not an issue for most people with some paddling experience.

Testimonials from 2021:

Just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed the beautiful kayak trip yesterday.  You are so professional and yet so relaxed and helpful.  I thoroughly enjoyed the trip and learned so much!  Thanks for the lovely experience! — Mary H. from Lewes, DE

Just wanted to say that Ann and I really had a great time this afternoon…even if we only heard and didn’t get to see the owls. You’re a very personable and informative guide and you and Ed put together a nice trip. Thank you! — Jim C. from Bridgeville, DE

Meeting Location and Route:

Our meeting location is just northwest of the North Poplar Street bridge in Laurel, DE. Use these GPS coordinates: 38.5593, -75.57321, or please scroll down (and zoom in) or click here for a Google Map.

Cost:

$65/person for rental kayaks ($65/solo kayak, $130/tandem kayak); $30/person with personal boat

Please note: There are 6 rental solo kayaks and 4 rental tandem kayaks on site. Our inventory within PayPal is set to reflect these numbers. If you try to purchase a ticket and the kayak you choose is sold out, please email dmvbirds@gmail.com and we will try to get some additional kayaks.

Paddling Trip Tips & Policies:

  • No cancellations are accepted after 10 days prior to departure.
  • This trip is for those with intermediate paddling skills. Please be prepared to paddle six miles in 3 to 3.5 hours.
  • Paddling trips will go rain or shine. If we cancel a trip due to dangerous weather, a full refund for that trip will be provided. Please check your email for updates 2 to 3 days prior.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for paddling. Carry sunscreen, sunglasses and/or a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Dress in layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons in the fall.
  • When paddling, protect your valuables in a dry bag or sealed Zip-Loc bag.
  • Try to arrive a little early before the scheduled trip departs so that you don’t get left behind.
  • Most trips are not appropriate for young children. Please use your discretion when registering.
  • There are no restroom breaks on these excursions, so please use the restroom before you launch!

Thanks to the Laurel Redevelopment Corporation and Delaware Sea Grant for their support of the Broad Creek Excursions:

Register today for our final guided tour of the season!

Thursday, Oct. 28, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Twilight Birds and Owl Prowl on Broad Creek

Join Jim Rapp of Delmarva Birding Weekends for a twilight tour of Broad Creek. During the late afternoon, we’ll search for birds, basking turtles and other wildlife of late summer along Broad Creek. You may discover warblers, vireos and flycatchers that will soon be migrating south after nesting season. Year-round residents such as Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons and Wood Ducks are often encountered on Broad Creek, as are basking Eastern Painted Turtles and Northern Red-bellied Cooters. As the sun sets, we’ll look and listen for Barred Owls and Eastern Screech-Owls among the trees that border Broad Creek. After the paddle, you can enjoy dinner and drinks on the deck at nearby Abbott’s on Broad Creek.

Please note: There are 8 rental solo kayaks and 4 rental tandem kayaks on site. Our inventory within PayPal is set to reflect these numbers. If you try to purchase a ticket and the kayak you choose is sold out, please email dmvbirds@gmail.com and we will try to get some additional kayaks.