Bass River is the longest river on the Cape and there are many places to launch. Check a map of the area and see where there are town landings where you can launch and park. Or call the towns of Dennis and Yarmouth and they should be able to help you out. One scenario would be to launch at either end of the river (depending on the tide: on the chart look at tides for South Yarmouth and Dennisport) and then leisurely paddle and float to the other end, wait for the tide to turn and then return to your starting point. Or, leave a car at one end and then get dropped off at the other end and just paddle the length of the river going with the tide. Or do part of the river one day and another part some other day. Just make sure you bring plenty of water and something to eat.
The lower part of the river (south of the Bass River Bridge) is very busy with a lot of boat traffic. It is also very scenic and alive. There is a nice beach at the Windmill where I am sure you could stop by and swim. You will also see some really beautiful homes. These homes are just fun to float by and wonder what it would be like to live there. Just make sure you stay close to shore as much as possible. If you continue to kayak toward the mouth of the river, you can access the West Dennis Beach which is a large (crowded) and sandy beach on Nantucket Sound. Access the beach from Bass River. Don’t attempt to go out into Nantucket Sound. Pull your kayak out on the beach before the Breakwater (large stone wall or jetty).
Over by the marina on the north side of the Bass River Bridge is a restaurant called Sundancers. You can always pull your kayak out near the marina or at the town landing (Dennis side). The restaurant has good food at a moderate price and there is an outdoor deck that overlooks the river. This is a good place to stop and rest and get a bite to eat and get your strength back.
Traveling further upriver (the north side of the Bass River Bridge and past the Bass River Golf Course) the river traffic is much less. There are a lot of inlets and “ponds” to paddle around and explore. As you look at your map, you will see names such as Grand Cove, Kelley’s Bay, Dinah’s Pond, Follins Pond and Mill Pond. All of these are part of Bass River which is what makes this such a great place to kayak and explore.
By the way, for the history buffs, there is some evidence that Leif Erickson navigated Bass River over 1000 years ago. I guess there have been some artifacts found that suggest Leif and the boys may have visited. Anything is possible.
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