The Hands That Guide Your Paddle.

At TideKeep Charters, we believe that an adventure is only as good as the expertise behind it. Our team isn't just a group of instructors; they're seasoned nautical survivors, wilderness medics, and technical experts with over 45 combined years of experience on the water.

Why settle for recreational guides when you can learn from professionals who live for the current? You'll find we don't just teach kayaking—we instill a profound respect for the sea.

Team of instructors paddling in synchronized formation

Meet Your Guides

Safety First, Adventure Always. That's not just a slogan—it's our code of conduct.

Head Instructor portrait

Captain Marcus Thorne

Chief Expedition Officer

With 22 years of trans-Atlantic paddling and open-water survival training, Marcus oversees every safety protocol at TideKeep Charters. He's the guy you want beside you when the swell picks up.

ACA Level 5 WFR Certified SAR Specialist
Elena V. Portrait

Elena Van der Berg

Technical Specialist

Master of the Eskimo roll and complex surf zone launches. She'll have your technique perfected in a single afternoon.

Sam K. Portrait

Sam Kolisz

Safety Lead

Sam's focus is the nautical classroom, specializing in weather pattern reading and radio communication.

Liam F. Portrait

Liam O'Shea

Maintenance Pro

The wizard of composite repairs. If it floats, Liam knows how to make it float better and faster.

Sarah M. Portrait

Sarah Miller

Expedition Guide

Sarah leads our coastal tours with an emphasis on local marine biology and eco-conscious paddling.

What Our Trainees Say

"The level of professionalism here is unmatched. I felt safe even in the roughest conditions because the guides clearly knew the water better than anyone."

— Gaura M.

Why did we choose TideKeep Charters? Because their technical workshops actually teach you the 'why' behind the physics of paddling. Maife and her team are absolute experts. No more guessing in the tides.

— Erein Drucker, Search & Rescue Lead

"Hands down the best safety course in NY. Contractions like we're and don't make the instruction feel personal, but their certifications show they mean business."

— Tyrion M.