| rev:text
| - Our group of five did the self guided kayak trip. We launched at Hoover Damn and ended at Willow Beach, about 12 miles. Overall the trip was amazing but I do think there are some things that Desert Adventures could improve on. We arrived at the Boulder Lodge at 6 am for check in. There was a couple that had signed up that were about 30, 40 minutes late. Nothing against this couple as they were very nice but I do think since they have pick ups throughout the morning that this 6 a.m. group should have left on time and they depart on the next pick up. When we got to Hoover Dam to launch they were short a single kayak. Ironically, when we were at the Boulder Lodge someone said it didn't look like there were enough kayaks. So that person had to wait while Desert Adventures went back for his kayak while the rest of his group went ahead. I would think that number of kayaks per guest is something that is double checked before taking off. I hope they did the right thing and reimbursed him.
I know this was a self-guided adventure but I still think the safety/introduction speech could have been more detailed. Some basic kayaking, paddling tips would have been appreciated. It was basically here's a map, be at Willow Beach by 4 or get charged $150. Also when you arrive at Willow Beach it would have been nice to know exactly where the pick was, like veer toward your right, pick up on the left, etc. We just kind of got there and hoped it was the right section.
I would definitely do a trip like this again Our weather for the day was fairly calm. We stopped a few times at the different beaches along the way and the hot springs. Next time I would like to explore more. Timewise, without any unforeseen mishaps, launching at 7 and returning by 4 is plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and explore. I do think they should provide an emergency number in case there is an issue if something unexpected happens, as it did on our trip, because no one answers the office phone.
|