UMass Boston

• Kayaking: Explore the waters with our fleet of 12 – 10.5ft, 1 person Sea kayaks and 8 -  14 ft, 2 person Sea Kayaks. Perfect for solo adventures or paddling with a friend!

• Stand-Up Paddle boarding (SUP): Test your balance and soak up the sun on our 6 stand-up paddleboards. A great way to enjoy the scenery and get a full-body workout.

• Rowboats: Enjoy a leisurely day on the water with our 4 - 2 person rowboats. Ideal for a relaxing outing or a fun rowing experience.
  
  
• Sailing: Feel the wind in your sails with our 6 -16ft Cape Cod Mercury Centerboard Sailboats. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to the sport, our sailboats provide an exhilarating experience. Seasoned sailors must present a certification and/or pass an internal test before booking.  
  *Verification that you are qualified to sail on your own is needed to use a sailboat.   A one time onsite assessment may need to be completed before you are allowed to use a sailboat on your own.*   
   
• Intro to Sailing: If you're new to sailing or need a refresher, we offer an Intro to Sailing class which will help teach beginners the basics of recreational sailing.  Please note that participants will NOT receive a certification for completing this course.  Interested students can sign up on the UMB Recreation Member Portal in the same place that participants can reserve waterfront equipment.  

For more information on Sailing, please see this Waterfront Recreation Sailing Information sheet.  

To Reserve Equipment or sign up for an Intro to Sailing Course, visit the link below!

Reserve Equipment

• Main Season: June 5 - August 31
  Wednesdays - Sundays 11:00am - 6:00pm
• Post Season: September 5 - September 28
  Friday - Sunday 11:00am - 6:00p 

Whether you're an avid water enthusiast or just looking to enjoy some fun in the sun, our passes offer unbeatable value and convenience.

Special Offer for UMB Students:

Current UMB students registered for fall 2025 and taking at least one credit course can utilize the waterfront equipment for FREE no additional membership required!

Exciting Discounts for UMass Boston faculty/Staff/Alumni:

• HUGE Discount for current Recreation members! ONLY $50
  Discounts are automatically applied when you log into our Recreation portal.

Season Pass Rates:

• Individual (non-recreation members, non-student, faculty/staff, all non rec members): $200
• Current Recreation Member: $50

• Day fee (Guest pass): $15 per person to use the space  

Purchase Season Pass

Season Pass Perks:

• FREE Equipment Rentals: Enjoy unlimited access to kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rowboats, and sailboats all summer long. Equipment is reservable for hour time blocks.

Reserve Equipment

*Onsite assessment or sailing certification needed 

How-To Guides:

• How to Purchase a Season Pass
• Booking/reserving waterfront equipment
• All non-UMass Boston individuals will need to create an account first

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the waters and create unforgettable memories. Grab your season pass today, and let’s make this summer one for the books!

Waterfront Recreation General Rules

Weather Policies:

1. All participants must follow the instructions of waterfront staff in regards to the weather coming back to shore.  All vessels must be returned to the dock when instructed to avoid inclement weather and damaging equipment.
2. Participants will be notified as soon as possible via email if weather forces the waterfront to close during a specific reservation time or for the totality of the day.  Depending on the weather forecast, the waterfront may close for brief periods during operation.  The final call will be made by the Program Manager and all participants who reserved a vessel for use will be notified via email.
3. Any reservations affected by weather will be cancelled and not rebooked.  Participants will have to rebook a reservation at another time the waterfront is open.
4. If weather affects the ability of a pre-purchased guest pass user to utilize waterfront activities, a credit will be applied to the guest or "rain check" at the discretion of the Program Manager.
5. In the event of a storm involving lightning, torrential rains, or high winds, participants should leave the dock area to one of the main campus buildings across the street to take shelter.
6. Safety will always be the top priority when assessing weather and cancelling waterfront activities.  Participants do not get to choose what weather is too inclement for their own abilities.

1. Do you provide life jackets free of charge?

   • Yes, we do. Life jackets are provided at no additional cost and must be worn at all times while on the water.

2. What are the age requirements for using the waterfront equipment?

   • Participants must be at least 16 years old to rent equipment. Minors (under 16) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who will sign a waiver and supervise them.

3. Are reservations required for using the equipment?

   • Yes, reservations are required due to our limited fleet.  Participants who walk up may be able to use equipment if it's not reserved, but reservations are strongly advised to a vessel is available.
4. Are outside guests allowed to join Recreation Members on the water?
   • Yes, non-UMB Recreation members may also participate in waterfront recreation activities by purchasing a day pass fee.  This can be done when checking in at the waterfront for a reservation or ahead of time through the UMB Rec Connect portal.
5. Is experienced required to use the waterfront equipment?
   • There is no prior experience required to use kayaks, stand up paddleboards, or a rowboats but there may be a small learning curve if it's your first time.  Our staff is there to help you with any questions and provide instructions! 
   • Sailboats may be reserved but members who wish to use a sailboat must pass an internal test or show a sailing certification to show they know how to operate a sailboat.  Members who are new to sailing and want to learn the basics of sailing may take our intro to sailing program to be able to sail!

6. What should I bring with me for a day on the water?

   • We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, water, a towel, and appropriate clothing for water activities. You should also bring a valid ID for equipment rental and check in.

7. Is there a changing area or locker room available?

   • No, we do not have changing areas, but we do have a few lockers to store belongings.

8. What are the operating hours of the waterfront program?

   • See Hours of operation section.

9. Are there any safety guidelines I need to follow?

   • Yes, safety is our top priority. All participants must wear life jackets, follow the instructions of our staff, and adhere to posted safety guidelines.

10. Where should I park?

    • Unfortunately, there is no parking at the dock. You can find out more information about parking by visiting the parking transportation webpage.