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An aerial view of two people paddling yellow kayaks on the dark blue water of the Eastern Shore in Virginia.
Virginia

Kayaking the Eastern Shore: The Chesapeake and the Atlantic

Program No. 2285RJ
Participant Reviews
4.47
Based on 15 Reviews
SHOWING
Sharon – Class of 2014 | Rogers, AR
This is a rather unique and interesting way to experience this area of the MidAtlantic coast. The housing is basic, but adequate. The meals were very good. The group leaders were both knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Be prepared to be wet, but to see beautiful scenery and interesting wildlife. Also be aware that the mosquitoes are plentiful and voracious, so have adequate clothing and repellents so that you can enjoy the experience. It’s worth the effort.
— Review left October 13, 2025
Richard – Class of 2020 | Ann Arbor, MI
Challenge yourself kayaking the Virginia Coastal Islands
— Review left October 11, 2025
Nancy – Class of 2013 | Bradenton, FL
I recommend this program for those that like to paddle, like being out in nature and like to learn a little more biology. I loved the variety of marsh, estuary and river. The band one night is very good, entertaining and they impart a number of stories relating to the history of the area. The staff were accomodating, entusiastic and all have science creditials with different specialties.I also recomment you bring a sleeping bag. It's a dorm with sheets that pop off of the plastic coated mattress. They do arrange to have no more than two people per bath, so my husband and I had our own bathroom and if you are a single, you will get your own room, but share a bath.
— Review left September 8, 2025
Charles – Class of 2024 | Wakefield, RI
You will love this kayak trip if you love wildlife and sea life, and wish to see and learn more about each. Also, have fun and a challenge at the same time.
— Review left June 8, 2025
Jean – Class of 2025 | Carlisle, PA
The staff were energetic and excited to share their knowledge, never a dull moment. This was my first solo trip and the staff and the other solo travelers made it so easy I'll definitely go again.
— Review left June 6, 2025
Elsa – Class of 2025 | Lock Haven, PA
A great experience, be prepared for getting into the experience of the Chesapeake!
— Review left May 3, 2025
Jeanne – Class of 2021 | Conway, AR
Wonderful kayak trip with great leaders!
— Review left May 26, 2024
Cynthia – Class of 2008 | Girard, OH
The Chesapeake is a beautiful area to explore. Our guides did everything they could to help us enjoy the kayaking experience of different waterways & variety of shore life and were very organized & knowledgeable. The presentations & demonstrations in the lab by Emily & Courtney were awesome. Lexi expertly guided us through the waterways. The concert by locals was excellent. I feel some daily instructional review of paddling techniques could have helped those who struggled, and the accommodations were a little sparse ( bring your own soap, shampoo, conditioner & blanket), compared to what I am used to. You definitely don't want to carry a suitcase up to the 2nd floor or share 1 toilet & shower for four women!! A little discomfort didn't stop me from enjoying the experience. Group members were amiable and seafood outstanding.
— Review left May 26, 2024
Geraldine – Class of 2021 | Port Chester, NY
Accurately described and tremendously enjoyed. Roads Scholars nature programs (my favorite) are such a conveninent way to explore these out of the way adventures. You really need a guide kayaking the Everglades or the Outer Islands and their guides are great.
— Review left May 6, 2024
Sara – Class of 2024 | Biloxi, MS
First time on a kayaking trip and couldn't have had a better experience. The instructor guides were fantastic..informative, engaging, fun. Each day went to a different location with a variety of sights and paddling conditions..always felt safe and comfortable. Food fantastic. Learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed every minute. Would highly recommend this experience!
— Review left May 6, 2024
Ilona – Class of 2018 | kalamazoo, MI
Out of 10 trips this was not one of the better ones, especially after I had a really great Big Bend NP trip. Most of paddling miles are on rivers in Maryland and weren't very interesting. Biggest issue was the facility for accommodations and meals. It's located next to a Navy airbase used for 'touch and go' landings at all hours; lots of noise. Lots of groups of children staying on site. Meals very bland, bring seasonings. Rooms are spartan; glad I had my sleeping bag to use. Free afternoon was squeezed in between other activities so to take advantage of going exploring I opted to forgo a short kayak and a late dinner (can't eat at 8pm).
— Review left June 3, 2023
Susan – Class of 2014 | Atlanta, GA
Great kayaking!! Enjoyed both swamp (without lots of nature drama) and salt marsh (with drama - a fish jumped in one of the kayaks! ) A good time was had by all in this great area of natural treats. The accommodations are sparse and basic (clean and simple): the dining out was excellent (both nights out - but also the seafood boil the first night was a treat). Our three group kayak leaders were most knowledgeable and/or inquisitive about all varieties of marine life and it was a very congenial, small group! Would enjoy doing it again.
— Review left September 3, 2022
Janet – Class of 2018 | Rochester, NY
Lots of fun kayaking. Did 27 miles total in 4 days but tandem kayaks made it easy. Instructors scheduled trips to take advantage of tidal flow. Beautiful area. Dorm accommodations were typical dorm but clean and appreciate lower cost. Two restaurants we had dinner at in town were great.
— Review left August 27, 2022
Greta – Class of 2007 | Chambersburg, PA
This will definitely not be the last kayak adventure with Road Scholar. Our group seemed to bond immediately which made for a fun-filled adventure from the very start. My congratulations to the staff for making this such a well organized and fun program. The silent kayak experience was so peaceful and meaningful....; please keep this experience in the program.
— Review left September 30, 2019
Fay – Class of 1999 | Raleigh, NC
Great leaders who were very knowledgeable about marine and wildlife, and who were very good kayak leaders. They really responded to and tended to the needs of the group and paddle environments, tides, and wind. There was lots of kayaking everyday with quite a variety of paddles. I highly recommend this trip for folks who really like kayaking.
— Review left May 25, 2019