Welcome to Tour Big River! Established in 1972, Catch a Canoe continues to provide a wide selection of kayaks, canoes, and redwood outriggers for exploring beautiful Big River. Local artisan Bob Cummings has created an incredible new 9 person outrigger just for us. Come aboard for an easy paddle and experience Big River in a completely new and relaxing way. If you prefer to take it really easy, sign up for an outrigger sailing tour, and if you wish, take the helm and learn how to sail a canoe trimaran!

Big River

Big River flows fifty five miles westward from the rugged Coast Range into Mendocino Bay. Due to its slight gradient, the lower eight miles are tidal, providing paddlers with good depth year round. Nestled within California's newest state park, the Big River estuary--including its abundant wildlife and adjacent lands--is now permanently protected.

“Big river looks tantalizingly moody and gorgeous, its slinky coils meandering over grassy flats and vanishing into a deep gorge defined by the dark towering presence of coastal redwoods.”

— Outside Magazine

Paddling along silently in a non-motorized craft provides a stealthy means for excellent wildlife observation. Harbor Seals and their pups are seen daily during the summer, and if you're lucky you'll observe the playful River Otters.

Our Unique Outrigger Design

Secret Harbor Boat works has just completed a beautiful new boat for Catch a Canoe & Bicycles too! Handmade using redwood strip construction, this uniquely styled proa outrigger is the perfect way to see Big River in style. Our guides are local experts who conduct each tour in the dignified, respectful manner that is consistent with the majestic nature of the river itself.

Control: The guide sits in a separate hull, six feet to the right of and centered on the main hull. This configuration is ideal for clear communication between guide and paddlers. The boat uses a foot operated rudder for precise maneuverability and control.

Extra Stable: Rock solid stability provides an excellent platform for photography and binocular use. Unlike traditional canoes, moving around or standing up has no effect on what could be called the most stable canoe ever made.

Ease of paddling: At thirty-three feet long and only twenty-two inches wide at the waterline, our tour boat utilizes a very fast and efficient design. This equates to an easier, more relaxing river experience in contrast to smaller canoes or kayaks.

The nine person outrigger design allows you to meet new friends and share in pleasant conversation during this memorable river experience. Yet our guides understand that the silence and subtle sounds of Big River are equally appreciated, and this balance is respected and encouraged.