Trip: Mackinac Straits Lighthouse Trip

Guide: Michael G.

Uncommon Adventures packed lots of activities into a short trip based on and around picturesque St. Helena Island and Light Station. We successfully hunted for ladyslipper wildflowers along nature preserve trails, learned about the life of lighthouse keepers, kayaked around the island and over shipwrecks, and enjoyed a special view of mainland fireworks from the top of a lighthouse. Helena Island felt like our own private Mackinac—all the beauty and serenity with none of the crowds. No paddling guide knows this region better than Michael Gray. On land and water, Michael’s interpretation of history, wildlife, and flora was always fascinating. And providing a spread of brie and local smoked fish dip for our shoreline picnic lunch was top level! Our experience with Uncommon Adventures: safely executed fun trips to uniquely fabulous destinations.

By Jill L. on July 07, 2024

Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L2 Skills Training Day

Guide: Lisa D.

Had a great time learning all sorts of skills from Lisa and Michael! They are excellent teachers, and I appreciate that they both have different approaches to teaching, because sometimes one of them explains something in a way that clicks in a way that it didn't the first time. Super beneficial. They do a great job of breaking things down, and explaining the why behind different things.

By Emma R. on July 05, 2024

Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L2 Skills Training Day

Guide: Lisa D.

The instruction provided by Mike and Lisa will provide me with a base of knowledge to practice and improve my skills. They are both very knowledgeable and amiable instructors and I recommend them highly for anyone searching to get a solid and safe introduction to kayaking. I am a novice but they have much to offer to all levels.

By Ken M. on June 29, 2024

Trip: Fundamentals of Coastal Kayaking II

Guide: Michael G.

The training was great. I learned alot about various strokes, kayaking, etc. I am anxious to try again - I need to practice more. The lake - the river was fun.

By Marie M. on June 17, 2024

Trip: Sleeping Bear Sampler Remix: Learn to Kayak Boot Camp

Guide: Michael G.

Amazing and enjoyable experience, great location, excellent food. Lisa and Michael are great teachers and very patient with beginners. A good first step especially as related to learning about safe rescues in a group and if our solo. This is two and a half days with many hours out on the water, learning through direct experience. A repeatable weekend class as it is tailored to participants' individual skill levels. Lake Michigan is very close to the inland lake we paddled on.

By Amy S. on June 13, 2024

Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L3 Skills Training and Optional Assessment

Guide: Michael G.

By Eddie Q. on June 12, 2024

Trip: Sleeping Bear Sampler Remix: Learn to Kayak Boot Camp

Guide: Michael G.

I took the boot camp and thoroughly enjoyed my experience with Uncommon Adventures and look forward to the next. Mike and Lisa are the most gracious, helpful, and generous of hosts. They have something for each level of kayaker. I highly recommend Uncommon Adventures.

By Ken M. on June 05, 2024

Trip: Camp Birkett ACA: PSF and CPL

Guide: Michael G.

Exceptional training. I didn’t know what I didn’t know about paddling and rescue. The information I learned will prove to be exceptionally helpful professionally and personally. I am now much more confident in taking small groups out on the water.

By Lynnea M. on June 03, 2024

Trip: DOMINICA: Paddling Waitukubuli Sea Trail

Guide: Michael G.

Exceptional trip! From the first day to the last, this was easily the most enjoyable and memorable trip I’ve done with Uncommon Adventures. Great boats to paddle (NDK Pilgrim Expedition in my case), great scenery, wonderful food, and exceptional company. Thanks so much for the ground work, Michael. This was wonderful.

By Carol A. on March 31, 2024

Trip: DOMINICA: Paddling Waitukubuli Sea Trail

Guide: Michael G.

No Words! This trip was transformative!

By Cynthia F. on March 26, 2024