The employees working here and the owner Mike are absolutely awesome. I recently purchased a Hobie kayak from Channel Island Kayak Center and I couldn't be more thrilled with the entire experience! From start to finish, everything was absolutely top-notch. Thank you Mike & Channel Island Kayak team!
Customer Service. The staff assisted with initial phone call and shortly after I received follow up call. I was looking to purchase something out of local stock and fragile delivery. Mike called back and were incredibly knowledgeable and helped me with first time buyer kayak questions. He took the time to understand what I was looking for and provided excellent recommendations. No pressure, just friendly and helpful advice. ** I would recommend to make some basic online research and narrow down to your approximate likes and specifics on certain kayak models, at least this is how I approached my purchase process but you may have different situation, needs etc..
Delivery experience. Mind you my kayak delivery agreement was custom, so I cant speak for every kayak purchase agreement etc.. just my process. So, the delivery process was seamless. My kayak was delivered right on time, phone and text communications and confirmation before delivery and the delivery was quick, professional and courteous. Mike helped me with basic unbox product inspection, basic set up and gave me some tips on basic maintenance.
To sum it all up, my overall experience @ Channel Island Kayak Center - I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Channel Island Kayak Center exceeded my expectations in every way. If you're in the market for a kayak (or paddle board gear), this is the place to go. Highly...
Read moreWe had an amazing experience renting a tandem kayak from Channel Islands Kayak Center! From start to finish, their service was top-notch. The customer service was incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. The safety briefing was comprehensive and delivered with a guide's mindset, giving us confidence and peace of mind as we set out to explore Scorpion Cove. Way to visually convey the BLUF (bottom line up front) of the notable hazards (prevailing winds, variable sea state, sea caves) of sea kayaking at Santa Cruz island and helping customers spatially orient themselves in a simplistic manner.
The fair pricing was an added bonus, and it was clear that they value their customers' satisfaction. Our only minor gripe was that the helmets seemed a bit worn and the rigging attachments on the kayak could use some maintenance. However, these small issues didn't take away from the overall fantastic experience. Highly recommend Channel Islands Kayak Center for anyone looking to enjoy a day on the water with great support and guidance! Certainly helped us find solitude and splendor in such a unique...
Read moreI had made a reservation for 2 single kayaks to visit Santa Cruz Island in the National park. Unfortunately, the lack of communication between Island Packers and Channel Islands Kayak Center about the boat departure times meant we were unable to make our trip.
We arrived an hour early as instructed, only to find that the kayak center was not open and that is was too late to load any kayaks on board. I attempted to call the kayak center with no answer. Island packers attempted to call the kayak center with no answer.
When I called to get a refund from the kayak center the next day, I was essentially blamed and got no apology for the inconvenience/misunderstanding. This was extremely disheartening as we were only in town for the day and were looking to explore and check off another national park on the list.
If you are looking to kayak in Channel Islands NP, I would suggest paying for the guided tours as your kayaks and gear will be insured to get on the boat. If you attempt to rent kayaks on your own, just know that these inconsistencies can arise and you are left to fight...
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