Narrow River Kayaks (Narrow River Kayaks)

The Kayak Centre of Rhode Island has acquired Narrow River Kayaks, preserving one of the state’s most beloved paddling destinations as it enters its 35th season under new ownership.

Narrow River Kayaks has operated on one of Rhode Island’s most scenic and ecologically sensitive waterways for more than three decades, introducing generations of residents and visitors to kayaking and the natural beauty of the Narrow River estuary in Narragansett. Jason Considine owned and operated the business for more than 20 years before the transition.

“For years, our focus has been helping people experience and appreciate the beauty of Narrow River while respecting and preserving it for future generations,” Considine said. “The Kayak Centre shares those same values.”

The Kayak Centre, which operates locations in Wickford and Narragansett, is one of New England’s largest paddlesports outfitters and carries one of the most comprehensive selections of kayaks and paddleboards on the East Coast. Co-owner Matt Bosgraaf said the goal is to preserve what made Narrow River Kayaks a community institution while expanding access to Rhode Island’s waterways.

“Narrow River has always been more than a place to paddle — it’s a place people connect with nature, family, and the Rhode Island coastline,” Bosgraaf said.

Rentals, guided tours, and instruction at Narrow River will continue as before. More information is at kayakcentre.com.

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...