Are you Sure? Kayak time! Loved it here!!! Glad we did some light kayaking! We prolly looked so silly but we didnt fall in. Last minute i decided to leave my phone behind and he took wonderful photos of us!!!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH! We even chitchatted a little about Jk falling in. And I think he truly thought he did it on purpose. But our maknae was so embarrassed of falling in. And hes known to be "Mr. i'm good at everything"! Hehehe This is this rare moment of fail we'll all remember. Keke Im watching his reaction to this exact part rn and its hilarious. Anyways ARMY come visit here and go kayaking!!! Its easy and fun!! read more

Black Hall Outfitters - Fishing Near Me - Old Lyme, Connecticut

Owners are arrogant and unpleasant. I went there to kayak a number of times and the staff is helpful but the owners are hostile and aggressive. An additional negative is the water gets very shallow making it difficult to paddle. I'm not going back. There are plenty of other places in the area. read more

Ordered two kayaks from Black Hall and have been waiting six weeks going on seven weeks for delivery. Ordered two kayaks from Black Hall Outfitter's over a month ago and still no kayaks. Black Hall Outfitter's was no help with tracking my shipment and Fragilepak, Black Hall Outfitter's shipping company, does not response intelligently to questions regarding ETA of the shipment. I would have picked up the kayaks myself if I knew shipment was going to take over a month and a half. If Fragilepak is your shipping company, get ready to wait and wait and wait some more. I've waited seven weeks and still no kayaks. read more

Had a terrible experience buying a kayak from them. Motor was damaged when I opened it. I was offered a replacement but it had the same issues. They accused me of fraudulently redeeming gift cards the store staff told me I had when I picked up the kayak. read more

See all

Ted was really helpful with a fish finder problem that turned out to be entirely my fault. He returned my emails promptly and was a pleasure to deal with read more

Audra, the manager, set us up impromptu on a beautiful late Spring noon with two tandem kayaks, in which I and three others took a very enjoyable two-hour paddle down the Black Hall River. Lovely riparian scenery, houses with expansive lawns, and plenty of wildlife. Dock workers Joe and Mike very friendly and helpful. The store has one of the best collections of nautical gear, apparel, kayaks and accoutrements, and tackle in the Lyme/Essex/Westbrook/Saybrook area. read more

Spur of the moment decision on a nice day to rent a canoe! This place was awesome, guy that helped us was super friendly, he suggested a tandem kayak instead of a canoe and it was a great decision. Booked and paid for our reservation online the night before and everything was smooth, had to sign a waiver when we came but that's it! read more

Black Hall Outfitters - Tandem kayak. CT river - Fishing Near Me - Old Lyme, Connecticut

We live in the neighborhood and have been paddle boarding here 3 times this summer! Everyone is so nice and knowledgeable. Last week I went out on the river and realized my board had lost it's fin, which makes paddling extremely difficult. I brought it back, was able to switch boards and was in my way. Our guy was extremely apologetic for this! Paddling out towards the sound is absolutely breathtaking- especially at sunset. I highly recommended coming here. It's $40 for two hours, I find this is just enough time. read more

Black Hall Outfitters - Fishing Near Me - Old Lyme, Connecticut

See all

First time there and it was a great experience! Did the single kayaks for an hour, and it was worth it. The staffing was friendly and they do provide safety vests. The water was so calm and the day was beautiful. For sure looking to come back soon for some paddle boarding! read more

See all

The owner's wife would not Horner their offers and very unfriendly. I went to Black Hall outfitter to buy a kayak, the owner try to sale me a used one for $550. Going back the next day and try to complete the deal. The wife was there and told me it would be $650. This thing if full of rain water and leaves from past years. Refuse to clean it. And told me a lot of people wants these kayaks. Also directed me go home and think about it. So I went to west Marin got a new one for $720. In conclusion, she really do NOT scare about customers and very aggressive. I would be afraid going back there for anything. Hope a lot of people can see this message read more

There definitely should be a zero or negative rating. It was hard to give them anything but I only had the choice of one star! Stay away from this place at all cost! The owner Gene curses at customers and threatens them. The manager Sean is crazy, irrational and incredibly unprofessional! Some how my one star rating and review of this horrible place was deleted off of Google reviews but I knew they would try and get it deleted so I took a picture of it and will now be posting it anywhere I can! You can see their defensive response to my google review in the picture attached. I am definitely going to get this reposted on google again! It is a complete lie when he writes that I "verbally abused his staff" and Old Town. I love Old Town! I never spoke to anyone else there. Old Town also told me to stay away from Black Hall Outfitters Sean. Responding to a negative review with lies and how good you are is a huge red flag Sean! Yes, I had to exchange two boats and now have my third Kayak from Old Town. Seans response to this rating is just one of the reasons why you should never do business with Black Hall Outfitters. You can see in Sean's response to my google review in the photo. Do you see how he states that I will "probably find something else to complain about?" He really believes that I "created" the issues. He will treat you the same if you have a problem with your boat! Do not buy a boat from this place! I am a problem to Sean because I have to exchange a boat. Old Town does not just give you a whole new boat for any reason. Their is a process. You send in pictures and videos of the issue. The technical team reviews the issue and based on their expertise make a decision to replace or fix it. Their is no way I could "create" or "find" problems with a boat to get a new one like Sean would have like to make you believe in his response to this review. I am a 47 year old single father raising two boys. I own a very successful business, coach varsity soccer and teach kids with autism. My time is extremely valuable. Why would I want to drive 6 hours to exchange two kayaks? Why does Sean think that is what I would want to do? Why would he think any of his customers would WANT to "create" problems? He is crazy. That is the only reason. Sean told me he that he was "doing me a favor" by exchanging the boats. Do you want to do business with a company that thinks they are doing you a favor by exchanging a defective product? After driving 6 hours, almost sinking in the bay and loosing $400 of electrical equipment, Black Hall Outfitters was now doing me a "huge favor" by exchanging a second boat! No apologies for my inconvenience. That speaks enough to just avoid this place like the plague. After reviewing the pictures of the issues on my second boat. Old Town told me to call Sean and arrange a replacement. When I called Sean, he told me "I can't keep exchanging boats for you buddy" yelled at me and hung up on me. I had to get old Town to call him back and arrange a time to meet and exchange the second boat. When I arrived, Sean refused to exchange the boat. He said I could call Old Town but would not leave with a boat. I called the manager of Old Town and let her know that Sean would not exchange the boat. The manager apologized to me and said there is no way I should be dealing with this and would call the owner. About 3 minutes after getting off the phone with the Manager, the owner of Black Hall Outfitters came out of the store marching toward me in the parking lot with his fists clinched and his chest out. It almost looked like he was crying and was mad at the same time. I never met him before so I stuck out my hand to say hello. He said I am not shaking your f ing hand. I know who you are. He asked me "what the f I was tying to accomplish here?" I told him that the manager of Old Town just called you and I think you know what I am trying to accomplish. I just want to exchange my boat like Old Town said I should do. He than said "you are going to get your f ing boat and get the f out of here!" I am sure the Manager from Old Town told him he had to give me the boat. He was pissed off! They actually called the police! They lied to the police saying I was yelling in their show room! No threats of hurting anyone and no cursing. The only cursing and threats came from the owner, Gene. Gene realized that he harassed me and called the police. He lied to the police to make it look like I was the problem. The owner is the final reason to NEVER do business at BHO!!!!! STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE!!!!!!!!! read more

Black Hall Outfitters - Just writing - Fishing Near Me - Old Lyme, Connecticut

Had the best time today. Very relaxing and enabled me to recharge and smell the fresh air. Best place to have a nice relaxing time to paddle board with your family. You can even take a dip in the water. So refreshing. Then we ended it off with some fresh lobster rolls from captain scott's in New London. Our ideal day. read more

See all

Four of us had an amazing time here today! We rented three SUPs and a kayak for a two-hour excursion. The gentleman at the main office who checked us in was great: polite, helpful, and friendly. They sell water, other beverages, trail mix, granola bars, and those types of snacks for purchase there. I didn't catch his name, but once the front office guy got us checked in, we went out to the dock area to get our gear. (Fyi...There are two very clean port-a-potties in the lot to use before your trip. And there are a couple of little café-style picnic tables with umbrellas to sit at if you want to have a snack before or after your trip out.) Two young men, Rob and Jack, helped us gear up. They fitted us with life vests, which are all equipped with whistles, and got the SUPs, kayak, and paddles ready. All of the gear was in pristine condition and there appeared to be a lot of each item, so they can obviously accommodate large groups, too. Jack gave us an overview of the area map so we could get an idea of where we could travel during our time. One of our group was brand-new at SUP, so they gave him extra info on using it. Jack and Rob helped each of us get onto/into our craft and off we went! The views were amazing. This was one of the most beautiful areas we've had the opportunity to kayak through. The estuary is lush, green, and full of so many varieties of birds: seagulls, sandpipers, blue herons, cranes, cormorants, and even a hawk who snatched an eel or water snake right in front of us! Since we came mid-day when high tide had just gone out, the water was pretty shallow even though we paddlef far out. It was great because my teens were able to stand next to their SUPs and look for shells and rocks on the ocean floor. The water is pretty clear and we could see the various types of seaweed growing below the surface. When we returned, Jack and Rob, were right there to help each of us back on to the dock. When I went back in to reclaim my license, (They hold it in the office while out on the trip, and they have a cute "reminder" stop sign at the exit of the lot so one doesn't leave without it. ) the gentleman at the counter told me about their new Westbrook location and even gave me a 20% off coupon to try the place! We'd absolutely recommend this place and definitely would go back! read more

See all

First time, last time. Not impressed, not a fan. Bad customer service. Had a couple of question and as I was asking them, the gentleman wasn't even paying attention to me and looking all around. I even ask him if he understood what I was saying? His response was, Huh? I said nothing forget it and he walked away. I purchased a couple of items and as was cashing out the cashier messed up on the computer and couldn't figure out what happened that the bill was astronomical. I had to tell him what he did wrong so he could fix it. As I paid, in which I could have gotten my items cheaper on Amazon but I didn't want to wait 2 days and instead I wanted to give my business to a private store owner. After I paid my bill and was leaving, Mr. Pony tail man didn't even have the common courtesy to thank me for my business or even say have a nice day. Here is a little advice. Good customer service goes along ways. It won't hurt to say, hello, how are you today, and most importantly, Thank you, hope to see you again and eye contact. read more

We travel down from Hartford several times each year and every time we have had a wonderful experience. The staff is always super helpful and the scenery never fails to impress. An excellent way to spend a hot summer day. read more

Have come back now 3 times for canoe rentals for a day of crabbing at Old Lyme - very friendly and helpful staff, enough inventory that we never had an issue, great deal for a day of outdoor fun. read more

Great location to rent kayaks. Expensive but average for the area. Would go back again!

We were interested in buying kayaks here but found that the most of the staff at Black Hall Outfitters are not wearing masks. I mentioned it when I looked in the store and this did not change anything. I do not want to shop at stores where this care is missing! read more

Great spot to rent kayaks or gear up and go fishing. We went on a stellar sunny day. Got there before noon and they were super friendly and quick to gear us up for a beautiful day on the water. Good local spot, great prices and fun day. Highly recommend Black Hall for a day trip outing on the CT shore. read more

Great place to learn how to paddle board and kayak. The employees were very friendly and accommodating. We rented a kayak and paddle board and it was fantastic. BHO is awesome l!!! read more

Black Hall Marina provides great service and fun. I am from Old Saybrook/Westbrook area and have been getting my kayak and stand up paddle board rentals at Black Hall for the last two summers. Not only do they have the best prices, but the nicest and newest equipment around. I would recommend the rental service to anyone who is looking for a fun summer activity on a nice day. read more

Just got back from a sunset paddle with a group of friends that have been going with Black Hall for several years. Always a great time - Kevin is such a fun, high energy guide. He lets those with experience do their thing, while helping those without experience feel confident. A beautiful paddle, with amazing views from the little island it leads to. Can't recommend enough! read more

Black Hall Outfitters - Such a fun night with old and new friends! - Fishing Near Me - Old Lyme, Connecticut

Wow this place is so fantastic! everyone is so helpful and its such beautiful inlet to go kayaking and SUP. PS Love the promo video in the store! read more

Celebrated my friend's birthday by going on a sunset paddle tour. It was awesome! I called the day before to reschedule because clouds and thunderstorms were in the forecast but BHO assured me it would be a beautiful night and I was so glad I went because the weather was perfect. Our tour guide Kevin was the best. If you have never been paddleboarding before do not hesitate to do it here. The sunset was amazing. The whole experience was fun and peaceful rolled into one. read more

If you are into Kayaking THIS is the place to go to! I just bought an Old Town 106 PDL pedal kayak from them. I dropped by on a whim on Sunday while the weather was spitting a bit in the morning before I went crabbing. I had already researched the Kayak and they are the largest distributor of Old Town in CT. They had the Kayak I wanted to look at there as one of their demo boats. I talked to the owner Gene and he and staff were the best hands down. I bought the Kayak on the spot, picked it up today, Monday, and I will forever buy all accessories right from them to support their awesome operation! I believe in supporting local and they have my forever support! read more

Bad Karma. I stopped at Black Hall Outfitters for some bait so I could surf cast for a couple hours. When I was done fishing I decided to stop back there on my way home to use Black Hall's outside portable toilets. When I was done I walked back to my car and was greeted by an unfriendly man . He told me he was the owner and he didn't allow beach traffic to use his toilets and that I had no business being there. I explained to him that I was one of his customers and asked him if his customers were allowed to use the toilets? He said yes and looked bothered and walked away. Not a very friendly man. He made me feel like I was a lower life form. Don't think I'll be buying anything from there anymore. read more

Awesome experience with everyone here. Want to thank the staff for helping us out in purchasing a board for our sons 18th birthday.

Rented a canoe with husband and two kids, ages 2 and 5, at their new Westbrook location. Staff was friendly and helpful, equipment clean, and the estuary beautiful. Great experience overall! read more

Extremely friendly staff and super helpful, great location for paddle boarding down the shore. Went with three friends that rented boards and allowed me to launch my own, used the yelp ad 75$ for 100$ worked great! Calm waters great for all levels of paddlers, will definitely be back soon! Recommend for others to give this place a try! read more

I took my daughters paddle boarding here over the summer. We have all paddle boarded before in the ocean and loved it. Unfortunately there wasn't much about this experience to love. The tide was low, extremely low...muddy and not a fun experience at all. My youngest daughter and I had to return to the dock after 5 minutes. The people helping us on the dock suggested we ask for our money back, as it was impossible to move out of the immediate area. When I approached the staff inside, he gave me coupons for our next time, which there won't be, not here at least. The older two tried to continue on, but got stuck, numerous times in the muck. I would have appreciated if they had just said, the tide is really low you will have a better experience during high tide. When I was asked if I enjoyed the experience, I was honest and said no, it was muddy and a complete waste of money. I wouldn't recommend this place, there are so many others to rent from. read more

Dropped by for a recent rock-the-dock event. Entertainment was great and atmosphere laid back and friendly. Would attend another and look forward to trying out some of the water activities in the future. read more

Black Hall Outfitters is awesome! I love the people who help us out, the ease of renting, and the joy of being able to have a "boat" on the water. This was my second year using Black Hall and I won't go any where else! We had such a blast on the water and being able to kayak whenever we wanted! Thank you Nick and Gene!!!! read more

Great time and reasonable rates for SUP and kayak rentals! We went camping at Rocky Neck and wanted to get out on the water. This place is a short drive with plenty of coffee/ice cream on the way. They're right on the estuary with both river & ocean access. Also got to do some birding as there are many active osprey nests as well as egrets, pipers, terns and gulls. Will definitely be back! read more

Fantastic staff, most helpful and great customer service. Would definitely return.

We visited the Black Hall Marina for my wife's birthday to rent Stand Up Paddle boards, the location is one of the most beautiful rivers I have ever been on. The staff was super helpful, they have a big stock and inventory of paddle boards and kayaks for rent. I would highly recommend this to anybody in the area looking for a good time to try something different in the area. We definitely will be going back again. read more

I heard about Black Hall through a friend of a friend and thought to give it a shot on a lazy Sunday with a group of friends... Needless to say it was much and more than what I had anticipated. If you're looking for a relaxing yet totally involved day-trip then this is your place. My friends and I, a group of 9, rented kayaks on-site and paddled out through the numerous estuaries and waterways that make up the salt marsh around the marina. The kayaks we rented were practically new and very fairly priced which can be hard to find at similar businesses. My friends and I had packed lunches and coolers before hand and brought them a long with us on our adventure. The kayak trails that we traveled on were well mapped and easy to navigate even at a novice level sea-goer. The best part of the trip happened when we chanced to come upon a small hidden beach where we spent a couple hours and enjoyed ourselves. The physical aspects of the business were fantastic and the social side mirrored the latter. It's been a small family business since its beginning which can obviously be troubling for most in this economy, yet the owner, Geno, continues to go above and beyond for all of his customers and is truly grateful for the business. Everything about Black Hall Outfitters signifies that local "hole-in-the-wall" business, that everybody loves. If you live in the area, or are visiting for a day or two, you'd be missing out on scenic CT by not stopping by Black Hall. read more

My wife and son and I had a great morning in kayaks rented from Black Hall Outfitters. Helpful staff, got us on the water efficiently. Great location, with access to channels to the northeast, the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound. Staff was helpful in suggesting destination based on tides, and it worked out perfectly. High tide, not a lot of feeding birds except ospreys, which were out in force. Would definitely return for more paddling there. read more