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FunKidsActivities
Marshall Boats — Kayaking for Kids in Madison

Marshall Boats

4.9(198)4.9 out of 5 stars, 198 reviews Madison, WI

About Marshall Boats

Marshall Boats stands out as a 'gem for Madison' with its exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, making the rental process for canoes and kayaks very easy. It's an ideal spot for recurring family celebrations and summer-long water activities, offering reasonable rates and convenient online booking. Parents appreciate the focused customer service, including assistance with launching and landing boats, and thoughtful amenities like readily available bottled water.

What parents should know

Summarized from real visitor reviews.

Best for: Birthday parties and annual family celebrations.Families seeking an easy and friendly experience for water activities like canoeing and kayaking.Frequent visitors looking for summer-long recreation with potential membership benefits.Families who appreciate strong customer service and staff assistance.Visitors exploring multiple boat locations in the Madison area, as this location is a favorite.

Why families love it

  • Staff consistently described as 'the best,' 'super friendly,' 'helpful,' and 'chill,' actively assisting with boat selection, launch, and landing.
  • Rental process is 'very easy,' facilitated by mandatory online booking (at this time).
  • Offers specific boat types: canoes and tandem kayaks.
  • Known for being a perfect venue for 'birthdays and celebrations' annually.
  • Takes 'many precautions' including requiring masks for check-in/out (at this time).
  • Provides a unique experience with mentions of a 'secret canal' to explore.

Insider tips

  • All rentals must be done online; plan accordingly before your visit.
  • Be prepared to wear masks during check-in and check-out (as per current precautions).
  • If planning multiple visits throughout the summer, inquire about their membership option.
  • Ask staff about the 'secret canal' for a unique experience.
  • You can save money or ensure comfort by bringing your own paddle and life jacket.
  • Don't worry if you forget bottled water, they have it available.
Crowds
Not directly mentioned, but the mention of mask precautions and online booking may suggest they manage popular times or have systems for potentially busy periods. The business being a 'gem' and a 'favorite' implies it can attract crowds.
Value
Rates are described as 'very reasonable'. A membership option is available for those planning to use boats all summer, suggesting good value for frequent visitors. No hidden costs were mentioned, and the option to bring your own gear (paddle, life jacket) can potentially reduce costs or enhance comfort.
Food
Bottled water is available for purchase or convenience; no other food or drink policies mentioned.
Accessibility
No specific accessibility accommodations mentioned in reviews.
Safety
Takes 'many precautions' including asking people to wear masks during check-in and check-out (at this time).

What parents say

Amy Jo Behling
5.05.0 out of 5 stars
"Just exploring all their locations today. This was my favorite. Hoping to return soon. What a gem for Madison. Working nearby for summer school. Shucks all boat captain jobs are filled. Linkedin. Marketing and teaching. Wingra and Brittingham locations were interesting too."

10 months ago

Michelle Black
5.05.0 out of 5 stars
"Our experience at Marshall boats today was nothing short of perfect. They are taking many precautions and asking people to wear masks while checking in and checking out. All rentals are to be done online at this time. The rates are very reasonable and the staff was super friendly. We rented a canoe and a tandem kayak. What a great place!"

4 years ago

M. Roldaniewski
5.05.0 out of 5 stars
"Great staff! Very easy all the process for renting. We do this every year for birthdays and celebrations and it's always fun and enjoyable."

10 months ago

Reviews sourced from public Google data.