About the Experience

We offer fun excursions from a well-equipped and comfortable pontoon boat for the purpose of seeing the sights and taking us to our kayaking destination. We’ll meet at the premises of Atlantic Yacht Basin where there is sufficient parking for everyone and a wonderful place to gather and board the pontoon boat.  We’ll discuss safety and kayaking techniques before we board the boat. Life jackets and kayaks will be available for all participants.  Also, we’ll provide water and a granola bar type snack.

We’ll leave Atlantic Yacht Basin and catch the Great Bridge Bridge opening and then enter the Great Bridge Locks. Once in the Great Bridge Locks, the Lockmaster will secure the boat and begin equalizing the water. Inside the lock system, the water should be the same level as the other side of the locks with the use of gates and valves.

Once the Lockmaster gives us notice to proceed, we’ll cast off and leave the Locks and cruise to the original “natural” part of the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River which is a few hundred yards past the Locks.  At this point, we’ll begin our kayaking adventure and anchor and set up our equipment for safe boarding onto the kayaks.

We’ll paddle pristine waterways with beautiful grasses and shore birds feeding along the banks. It’s not uncommon to see an eagle in flight or perched in the tall pines. 

River Dogs will also consider special event excursions on the pontoon boat. Please email us your request.

Hi, I’m Spencer Hull

I’m very much a family man, devoted to my wife and three children. I live and work in Chesapeake, Virginia and spend most of my free time on the water paddling, fishing, and giving my “river dogs” a good, healthy work out.  I love the water and enjoy meeting people, and sharing the sites of our beautiful waterfront with others.

River Dogs Kayaking came to mind after a trip to the Eastern Shore with my bride to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary.  On this trip, we kayaked with an easy-going guide who shared  some tidbits about the community as we all paddled. Later on our trip, we took a photography excursion on a pontoon boat.  I fell in love with the boat and the various “photo op” destinations. 

After these two excursions, I couldn’t stop talking about what a great time I had, so I started brainstorming the idea of starting my own kayaking excursion business. Long story short, I decided to combine the two adventures into one excursion, and I’m so happy the plans came to fruition after tremendous support from family, friends, and colleagues.  

The Original River Dogs

I must not forget to mention the original River Dogs, Abby and Zilly. For several years, I would paddle out in my canoe with them aboard so that  they could experience a water field trip full of adventure. We would go to our favorite river bed beach at low tide and they would run and chase boat wake and bait fish that came close to shore. They inspired me with the name for the company and our logo. I owe my dogs a lot of gratitude for sharing the same excitement as I, if not more, of wanting to get out on the water.