Customer Experience

Self-service kayak rental kiosk opens on Wisconsin river

Photo: Adobe Stock

May 22, 2026

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A new self-service kayak and paddleboard rental business has opened along the Manitowoc River in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, offering residents and visitors an easy way to get on the water, according to a SeehaferNews.com report. Simply Paddle, founded by Ben and Stephanie Peters, includes four single kayaks, two tandem kayaks and two stand-up paddleboards available for rent.

Customers use a self-service payment kiosk to rent equipment by selecting a watercraft, signing a waiver and choosing a rental duration. Once the transaction is complete, lockers containing paddles and life jackets unlock automatically, along with the selected kayak or paddleboard. Users can launch directly from the kiosk site and explore attractions along the river or paddle upriver to view local wildlife.

The Peters said the river offers a mix of recreation and nature, with sightings that can include otters, osprey, pelicans and snapping turtles. Rentals cost $25 for two hours on a single kayak or paddleboard, with additional hourly charges after that, while tandem kayak rentals start at $30 for two hours. The owners also plan to host future events connected to the business.

A similar concept was recently announced in Potsdam, New York.