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Full Time Kayak Tour Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sales Tour Guide

Windsor, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Sales Tour Guide What you'll do Travel + Leisure is currently seeking Sales Representatives who ... Our benefits for full-time employees start in 31 days or less. Benefits include medical, dental ...

Sales Tour Guide

Windsor, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Sales Tour GuideWhat you'll do Travel + Leisure is currently seeking Sales Representatives who have ... Our benefits for full-time employees start in 31 days or less. Benefits include medical, dental ...

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Full Time Kayak Tour Guide information

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How much do full time kayak tour guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time kayak tour guide in the United States is $18.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Full Time Kayak Tour Guides?

Full Time Kayak Tour Guides are professionals who lead guided kayaking excursions, often for outdoor adventure companies or resorts. They are responsible for ensuring the safety and enjoyment of participants, providing instruction on paddling techniques, and sharing information about the local environment and wildlife. These guides typically work outdoors in various weather conditions, and their role may also include preparing equipment and planning routes. A strong knowledge of water safety, first aid, and local geography is essential for this job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Kayak Tour Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Kayak Tour Guide, you need strong paddling proficiency, knowledge of local waterways, safety protocols, and often a first aid/CPR certification. Familiarity with GPS devices, two-way radios, and booking or scheduling software is typically required. Exceptional communication, customer service, and leadership skills help guides create engaging, safe experiences for diverse groups. These competencies ensure guest safety, satisfaction, and smooth tour operations in outdoor environments.

What is the difference between Full Time Kayak Tour Guide vs Part Time Kayak Tour Guide?

AspectFull Time Kayak Tour GuidePart Time Kayak Tour Guide
Work HoursTypically 35-40 hours per weekFewer hours, often less than 20 hours per week
CertificationsRequired certifications like CPR, First Aid, and guiding licensesSame certifications may be required, but less frequently needed
Employment TypeFull-time employment with benefitsPart-time, often seasonal or supplemental
Work EnvironmentConsistent daily tours, outdoor water-based settingsFewer tours, flexible scheduling

Full Time Kayak Tour Guides work more hours, often with benefits, and have a consistent schedule, while Part Time Kayak Tour Guides work fewer hours with flexible scheduling. Both roles require similar certifications and operate in outdoor water environments, but the full-time position offers more stability and benefits.

What are some common challenges faced by full time kayak tour guides, and how can they be managed?

Full time kayak tour guides often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, ensuring guest safety, and managing varied skill levels among participants. To manage these, guides rely on thorough safety briefings, regular equipment checks, and flexibility in adapting routes or schedules. Building strong communication skills and staying up-to-date with local regulations and first aid certifications also help guides provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.
What cities are hiring for Full Time Kayak Tour Guide jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Kayak Tour Guide job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Kayak Tour Guide jobs? The most popular types of Kayak Tour Guide jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Kayak Tour Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Kayak Tour Guide jobs include:

Tour Guide/CDL B Driver

Historic Tours of America

Malden, MA • On-site

$1K/day

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

JOIN OUR HISTORIC TOURS OF AMERICA FAMILY!

Position Summary

The ideal candidate for this position will have a good sense of fun, a desire to entertain, and excellent driving skills as they drive a tour bus on busy public streets while narrating a sightseeing tour. Tour Conductors bring to life the history of America and all the positive things that it represents.

Employee Benefits

  • UP TO $31 per hour with gratuities included**
  • Sign-On Incentives--> $1500 for certification, $1500 90-day post certification.
  • Other Incentives --> Seasonal Attendance Incentives
  • Base Pay: $25 per hour, Paid training: $24 per hour
  • All FT Employees are eligible for 2 weeks of paid vacation time as well as company sponsored health and wellness plans
  • All FT, PT and Seasonal employees are eligible for: Paid sick time, 401K plan with company matching**, flexible schedules (including a combination of weekdays and weekends are available), fun and upbeat work environment with various award and recognition celebrations throughout the year, First Stop Health - 24 hr. access to doctor by phone or computer for employee and their dependents (Employer pays 100%), discounts in retail stores, and free admission to all company attractions

Operating tours, attractions and retail in Boston, Charleston, Key West, Nashville, San Diego, St. Augustine, Savannah, San Antonio, and Washington, DC since 1980!

Start your new Career with Us Today!

*Gratuity information based off of annualized historic tips received by Old Town Trolley Tour Conductors in Boston

**Eligibility requirements may apply


Requirements:

Essential Functions

  • Drive a tour bus that is approximately 26 feet to 42 feet in length in a safe, competent manner on busy public streets while entertaining guests by narrating a scripted sightseeing tour of approximately 1.5 – 2 hours, several times daily.
  • Meet and deal with the general public and diverse team members in a prompt and courteous manner.
  • Handle stressful situations and difficult people both in person and via a company radio while maintaining a professional and pleasant composure.
  • Maintain radio contact with dispatch during tours.
  • Perform an interior and exterior physical inspection of the vehicle daily and accurately complete the departmental documents/forms for inspection.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Ability to learn and memorize scripted tours and routes as assigned.
  • Ability to work independently over long periods of time within the scope of established rules and regulations while performing tours and satisfy the needs of our guests
  • Ability to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous people in a calm and pleasant manner
  • Mental attitude required to handle the stress that goes with this job as described.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak clear English to communicate with coworkers, general public, law enforcement, and emergency personnel and to complete required paperwork correctly.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Must have a Massachusetts Class B Commercial Driving License with Passenger and Airbrake Endorsements.
  • Must have an acceptable and verifiable driving record
  • Must pass a drug test and background search

Other Requirements

  • Valid DOT physical required.
  • Have a passion for entertaining people and making their Boston experience a memorable one.