KaBrew: Traverse City’s Original Kayak Brewery Tour Experience

Imagine combining your love for craft beer with outdoor activities like kayaking and biking — sounds like a recipe for a memorable day. That’s exactly what KaBrew offers in Traverse City: a lively, adventurous day exploring local breweries by land and water. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, an outdoor lover, or just looking for a unique way to experience Traverse City, this tour packs in scenic views, active fun, and a few well-earned brews along the way.

What we love most about this experience is how it blends scenic exploration with hands-on activity. You aren’t just sitting on a bus or wandering through a city; you’re paddling past lakeside views and biking through the neighborhood, all while sampling some of the region’s best craft beers. Plus, the tour’s focus on convenience and guidance means you don’t have to worry about logistics or equipment — it’s all arranged for you.

That said, a possible consideration is that the tour involves physical activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with cycling and kayaking. Also, since you’ll be tasting beer at stops, it’s a good idea to plan for transportation afterward or to enjoy the full experience if you’re staying locally. Overall, it’s perfect for active travelers who want a fun, authentic taste of Traverse City’s vibrant brewery scene.

This tour is an excellent fit for groups of friends, couples looking for a playful day, or solo travelers wanting an energetic way to explore the area with new friends.

Key Points

• Combines outdoor activities with brewery visits for a unique experience.
• All equipment (kayak, bike, safety gear) is provided, making it hassle-free.
• About 4 to 5 hours long, with flexible pacing.
• Tastes are at your own expense, but food can be enjoyed at some stops.
• Small group size (up to 40) ensures a friendly, personalized vibe.
• Ideal for those who enjoy physical activity and craft beer.

Introduction to the Adventure

This tour is designed for those who prefer a more dynamic way to explore Traverse City. Instead of a typical brewery crawl, it combines biking, kayaking, and self-guided exploration. That’s a big plus because it means you’ll get a real sense of the area’s natural beauty and local flavor, all while keeping active.

The central meeting point is at 1910 W South Airport Rd, making it conveniently accessible. You’ll start with a short bike ride to your first brewery, then switch gears to kayaking, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and chat with fellow travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Two standout features are its variety of activities and the organized convenience. The tour perfectly balances scenic views and fun challenges. As one reviewer said, “It’s all about the adventure.” Whether you’re paddling down the Boardman River or cycling around Lake Traverse, you’re continually engaged.

Another aspect we appreciate is the knowledgeable guides—mentioned repeatedly in reviews. They not only provide safety instructions and equipment but also share tips and local insights that elevate the experience beyond just drinking beer.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Right Brain Brewery

Your day begins with a bike ride from the starting point to Right Brain Brewery. This is a well-loved spot known for its creative brews and funky vibe. The tasting here is not included in the tour price, but visitors rave about the quality. With 45 minutes to sample and soak in the atmosphere, it’s a relaxed start to the day.

One reviewer noted, “The beers were great at both breweries, and the flatbread pizza at The Filling Station was fantastic.” Though food isn’t included, many choose to purchase snacks or meals here to fuel up for the activities ahead.

Stop 2: The Filling Station Microbrewery

Next, you’ll hop back on your bike for a ride to The Filling Station, another local favorite. Here, you get a chance to taste their beers and maybe enjoy one of their signature flatbreads. The 45-minute stop allows enough time to relax, chat, and enjoy a snack, though food and drinks are at your own expense.

Reviewers highlight the “great beers” and “famous flatbread pizza,” emphasizing this stop as both a taste and social highlight.

Stop 3: Rare Bird Brewpub

The adventure takes a twist with a kayak trip to the heart of Traverse City to reach Rare Bird Brewpub. This is where the tour offers a more active component, paddling across Lake Traverse or along the Boardman River. The 45-minute kayaking segment is well-loved for the opportunity to see the city from a different perspective.

One reviewer commented, “It was a short kayak trip, but it added a lot to the experience. The views are beautiful, and it’s a fun challenge.” The guides are praised for ensuring safety and providing clear instructions.

Stop 4: Silver Spruce Brewing Company

Optionally, you can stop at Silver Spruce Brewing before heading back to the starting point. This gives you another chance to sample local beers and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Not every review mentions this stop, indicating it may be flexible depending on group interest and timing.

Stop 5: Self-Guided Exploration of Boardman River

Finally, the tour provides the freedom to explore Boardman Lake and River at your own pace. With suggested routes and sample itineraries, you can relax, take photos, or even dip your toes in the water. It’s a perfect way to round out the day before heading back.

This flexible component is highly praised, as it allows for personal pacing and spontaneity.

Equipment and Convenience

Every piece of gear — kayak, life jacket, paddle, bike, helmet, and lock — is included, removing logistical stress. The guides also provide maps and insider tips, making navigation straightforward whether you’re paddling or biking.

The duration (about 4-5 hours) means you get a solid taste of Traverse City’s scenery, breweries, and outdoor fun without feeling rushed. Small groups (up to 40) ensure friendly interactions and attentive guidance, which many reviewers find adds to the experience’s value.

Authenticity and Value

While the $79 price point covers the equipment, guide service, and the activity organization, the costs for food and drinks are separate, so plan accordingly. Considering the inclusion of all gear and the variety of activities, many find this to be good value for money. The reviews consistently mention the professional and friendly staff, which elevates the experience beyond a simple tour.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the scenic beauty. Comments like “Scott the owner was great, super nice guy,” and “Fisher was wonderful” emphasize the personal touch. Many describe the day as fun, active, and social, with some calling it the “highlight of their trip.”

Others appreciate the flexibility — especially the option for self-guided exploration—making it adaptable whether you want a structured experience or a more freeform adventure.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

KaBrew is best suited for active travelers who want to combine their love of craft beer with outdoor pursuits. It’s ideal if you enjoy cycling, paddling, and scenic exploration and are comfortable with moderate physical activity. The tour’s organized nature makes it accessible for beginners and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts alike.

If you’re traveling with friends, family, or a group of like-minded adventurers, this experience offers a memorable, energetic way to discover Traverse City’s vibrant brewery scene. It’s also perfect for those wanting a more authentic, hands-on approach to local culture, rather than just tasting beer in a bar.

However, if you’re looking for a purely relaxed or food-focused experience, this might be a bit too active. It’s also worth noting that tasting fees and food are separate, so budget for some extra spending.

• Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers? The tour involves tasting craft beers at some stops, so it’s best for those of legal drinking age. However, the activity parts (biking and kayaking) can be enjoyed by anyone comfortable with outdoor exercise.

• Are the equipment and gear provided? Yes, all necessary gear like kayaks, life jackets, paddles, bikes, helmets, and locks are included.

• How long does the tour last? Expect about 4 to 5 hours, allowing time for each stop, activity, and self-guided exploration.

• Can I participate if I don’t have much experience with kayaking or biking? The guides provide safety instructions and support, making it accessible for beginners. Reviews mention the activities are “easy” and “not overly challenging.”

• Are food and drinks included? No, the tour price does not include food or alcoholic beverages. You’ll need to buy drinks and snacks at the stops if you want them.

• Where does the tour start? The meeting point is at 1910 W South Airport Rd, Traverse City.

• Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, good weather is required. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• What size are the groups? The maximum is 40 travelers, ensuring a friendly, manageable experience.

• Can I customize my experience? Yes, the flexible itinerary allows for some self-guided exploration, especially the final section on Boardman River.

In sum, KaBrew offers a fun, active way to sample Traverse City’s craft beer scene while enjoying the outdoors. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to combine physical activity with local flavor — a memorable, authentic experience that’s more than just a typical brewery crawl.