SoundWaters is offering 1-hour guided canoe trips on Holly Pond at Cove Island Park in Stamford during July and August. Here are answers to frequently asked questions.

When and where do the tours take place?
On Saturdays, July 5 through Aug. 23. Two tours each day, beginning at 10 am and 12 noon at SoundWaters Coastal Center, Cove Island Park, 1281 Cove Rd, Stamford.

Are beach passes required?
Yes, either a Stamford Beach Sticker or day pass purchased at the park. SoundWaters will not give out passes.

What is the cost and form of payment?
$20 a person, adult or child. We will accept cash, check or credit card.

Is there early registration?
No. Registration will be at SoundWaters on the day of the event.

Is there an age restriction?
Children must be at least 8 years old; ages  8 – 17  must be accompanied by an adult in the  canoe.

Are waivers required?
Yes. Everyone must have a signed waiver before canoeing. There are waivers for adults (18 and older) and minors (ages 8-17), which must be signed by a parent or guardian. Waivers will be at the sign-up table, but can be downloaded and printed here. Child waiver. Adult waiver.

What equipment will be supplied?
SoundWaters has 10 canoes, paddles, and life jackets sized for adults and children. Everyone must wear a life jacket.

What should I wear/bring?
You will probably get wet, or at least splashed. Wear a bathing suit, or clothes and shoes that can get wet, preferably with a back and no flip-flops. Bring a water bottle, suntan lotion and a hat.

How many people can go in the same canoe?
The canoes can hold 2-3 people, determined by the size and weight of the canoeists and the discretion of the Canoe Guide.

Is experience required?
No. The Canoe Guide will give a introductory talk on paddling and safety measures before each trip. Even experienced canoeists are asked to participate.

What if it rains or conditions are unsafe?
Canoeing is very weather dependent and Saturday tours may be cancelled because of weather, or because the wind and current is too strong. Call 203-406-3336 for an up-to-date weather report.

Where in Holly Pond will we canoe?
Holly Pond divides Stamford and Darien. Because SoundWaters has received permission to conduct these tours from the City of Stamford, canoeing will be restricted to the Stamford half of the Pond and encouraged along the shoreline to better see coastal birds and wildlife. Canoeists cannot go over the dam, or under the bridges.