BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — The Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse is trying to raise $10,000 to buy new kayaks and make repairs to its existing fleet.
The Boathouse sent 6,000 people out on the East River in six double kayaks and 22 single kayaks last summer free of charge. This year, staff would like to get more people in the water and make the boats safer, but the Boathouse needs donations to expand the program.
The Boathouse is looking to buy new double kayaks to accommodate the large number of paddlers with children, patch up the wear and tear on the current boats, and buy new safety gear like life vests, tow belts, walkie talkies and more.
"Last summer was an incredible success for the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse," reads a note on the Boathouse website. "Our free walk-up kayaking program exploded in popularity — but in order to sustain and expand our offerings, we need your help."
The Boathouse is asking for donations ranging from $25 to $500.
Free kayaking is open to the public every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. beginning the first weekend in June through the end of August.
Everything is first come, first serve, with life vests and the basics of kayaking explained upon arrival. Kayakers are limited to 20 minutes in the water.
The Boathouse is located in Brooklyn Bridge Park between Piers 1 and 2.
