FAQs

You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers!

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, our staffing hours are set by appointment during the week, we do not have staff available at the marina in between to accept walk-up appointments. We ask that reservations be made at least 2 hours in advance so that Paddle N’Party staff can be prepared to send you out on your ride! Booking in advance also guarantees that you will get your preferred ride time.

During peak hours such as weekends, we can usually accommodate some walk-up bookings. Just look for our staff in the blue Paddle N’Party shirts hanging out near the docks.

Where do I get on and off of the equipment?
We are located at Brunelle’s Marina in South Hadley, MA. We are on the right far side of the parking lot, please look for our blue equipment rack. A Paddle N’ Party staff member will help to load you and your party onto our equipment, educate you about river safety, and answer any questions you might have.
How long can I rent the equipment for?

All of our equipment can be rented directly from the website in 1 and 2 hour increments.

Can you deliver equipment to a different location?
Yes! We provide equipment drop off services for full and half-day rentals only. Drop-offs outside of a 15-mile radius from Brunelle’s Marina will incur a delivery fee of $25-$50.
What if I am late to my reservation?
You have the equipment for the select times that you rented it for, but can’t go past the end time. Example: you rent a hydro-bike from 7am-8am, but show up at 7:15am. You now have 45 minutes of pedal fun rather than an hour because it must still be back at 8am
What if I am late bringing the bike back to the starting point?
We are on a strict schedule, and often times, someone is waiting to use the equipment after you. If you are more than 10 minutes late for your return time, you will be automatically charged for an additional hour including taxes & fees.
Where am I allowed to paddle to?
You can take the bikes up river or on the local streams connecting to the river
Can I stop to take a Swim?
Due to safety reasons, you are not allowed to leave your vessel in the open water. If you would like to take a dip in the water, please pull to the side of the shoreline to safely dock and secure your equipment before going in the water. Time spent off your equipment for swimming is still counted in your ride time.
How many people per piece of equipment?
One person per bike rental, unless you are renting the double. Kayaks and paddle boards can accommodate more than one person as long as the weight limit is not exceeded. We have patrons who choose to bring their dogs, or ride with their toddlers. Our tandem kayaks are made to accommodate two adult riders.

Is there an age requirement?

You must be 18 or older to rent equipment as an individual. Anyone under 18 must have guardian in same group.

Is it dangerous?
You are participating in a water activity on a moving river with other motor craft and paddlers, therefore we ask that you obey the rules of the waterway, and adhere to Paddle N’ Party safety protocols to ensure everyone has a safe and fun experience.

Before patrons are allowed on the equipment, they must thoroughly read through the waiver and sign to acknowledge that they understand the risks.

Do I need to sign a waiver?
Every rider older than 18 years old and parent/guardians of anyone under 18 years of age must sign a waiver in order to rent Paddle N’ Party equipment. Waivers will be emailed to the individual who completes the booking to share with their group.
Do I need a reservation to ride?
Yes! We run based on reservations only, which you can make through our online booking system on our website. We recommend planning ahead as we are often booked in advance for popular weekend time slots!

Payment in full is required at the time of the reservation.

Our booking software does not allow reservations made less than two hours in advance. If you’d like to book a last-minute reservation please call Paddle N’ Party Customer Service directly at (413) 427-0458 and a staff member will manually book your ride if we have availability.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Cancellations made 24 hours in advance will get a full refund, anything less than 24 hours will get a free ride credit to change their reservation to future dates. Please call Paddle N’ Party Customer Service directly at (413) 427-0458 for cancellation or re-booking.
What is the weather policy?
We want everyone to enjoy their time with Paddle N’ Party equipment. We will be monitoring the weather and water currents regularly to make sure that our customers can have a safe and enjoyable ride with us. In the case of unsafe water conditions or inclement weather, you will be reschedule for free to another day.
Where do I park?

Due to the high foot traffic from the restuarant, customers are asked to park in the gravel lot on the far side of the Marina. A parking attendant is available to give rides to our location. Please have your confirmation ready.

What should I wear?
Please dress appropriately for predicted weather conditions. Our vessels will keep you dry, but as with any water activity, there is a chance of getting damp/wet, please dress accordingly.
Is there a height or weight requirement?

You must be 4’10 or taller and under 350 pounds to ride the HydroBikes. Paddle-boards 230-250lbs, single person kayak 250-300lbs, and a tandem two person kayak 500lbs. If the capacity is exceeded equipment is less stable, decreases the performance, and is more susceptible to capsizing. 

Do I need a life jacket?

Rentals come equipped with a life jacket, you may also bring your own if it is Coastguard Approved. Lifejackets must be worn at all times.