More hands-on than a chartered cruise and less hazardous than a hammerhead-shark rodeo, kayaking offers an enticing alternative to customary modes of nautical exploration. Steer clear of boredom and danger with today’s Groupon: for $19, you get a half-day kayak trip from Susquehanna Outfitters (a $39 value).

Splash-tested specialists send plastic flotillas of individual kayaks down the serene Susquehanna River for a recreational three-hour journey back to base camp. Guides first provide basic paddling instructions and outfit each kayaker with a kayak, paddle, life jacket, and harpoon gun to ensure proper protection from bathing Sasquatches. Groups are then shuttled upstream to the West Fairview boat access ramp and provided with expert recommendations for secluded island picnic spots and fishing holes.

Before embarking on a fun, family-friendly outing, kayakers should prepare for watery conditions with sunscreen, hats, copious drinking water, and river-worthy footwear. Insatiable urges to explore can be satisfied with an upgrade to a full-day tour or a tandem kayak for an additional fee. Adventurers can also enjoy one of several special programs, ranging from full-moon floats to bicycle eco tours.