Explore the luxury of nature at the mouth of the Napa River Valley

WATER TO VINE TOUR

Water to Vine: An Immersive Napa Valley Adventure

Uncork a deeper understanding of Napa Valley as you journey from river to glass, tracing the profound connection between land, climate, and the world-class wines that make this region legendary. Our Water to Vine tour takes you far beyond the tasting room, revealing how the Napa River and Pacific Ocean influence the flavors that define this iconic landscape.

As you paddle along serene waters, feel the coastal breeze that moderates the valley’s climate—creating ideal conditions for exceptional grape growing. Your guide will share the stories behind the vineyards etched into the hillsides, the rich volcanic soils beneath the vines, and the seasonal nuances that shape each vintage.

The journey culminates at Saintsbury Winery, where every pour reflects the very elements you’ve just explored. This optional wine tasting explores an exclusive NVP menu - three wines from bright, ocean-kissed Vin Gris to elegant, cool-climate Pinot Noir grown in Carneros, you’ll taste the valley’s unique terroir in every sip.

Sip, savor, and discover Napa in a way few ever do.

About the Napa River

The Napa River is a meeting place—where fresh and saltwater converge; where fish, birds, and wildlife comingle; and where the histories and cultures of generations blend and flow, twisting and turning like the river itself.

Guided Tour Self Guided Trip / Rental

Departure Times

Tours depart within 2 hours of high tide
Thursday–Monday: Two daily departures (morning or evening)
Tuesday & Wednesday: Call to book: 707.200.5511

Saintsbury Winery Apres paddle outside in the English garden, where the vineyards seen from your kayak are now revealed in your glass. Exclusive NVP menu of wines include Wildcat Vineyard, Vandal & Stanly Ranch plus a splash of rose while you stroll the vineyard grounds.

Water to Vine! Kayak Tour

Pricing & Details

Guided Tour - Carneros Estuary

$109/person – *$299 minimum
Saintsbury Tasting "Apres Paddle"
$45/person NVP selection, call to book 707.200.5511

Guided Tour - Napa River

$87/person
Roots Run Deep Tasting "Apres on 1st Street!"
$20/person NVP selection, call to book 707.200.5511

Self Guided Trip - Carneros Estuary

*Audio Guide w/ narration from local winemaker & Robo (Burt) Reynolds

$137/Tandem Kayak (2 seats)
$87/ Single Kayak

Saintsbury Tasting "Apres Paddle" $45/person * NVP selection, call us

Enjoy the luxury of nature in the heart of Los Carneros, just 12 minutes from Downtown Napa. This is the estuary kayaking experience our guests imagine when visiting wine country—paddle through scenic wetlands with a vineyard backdrop and glass of wine waiting on the other side.

Paddle 3.2 miles (approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes) on a guided or self-guided kayak tour. After completing the meandering loop, enjoy additional free paddle time—up to 2 hours total on the water.
Choose tandem kayak, single kayak, or SUP
Self guided trips include navigational assistance & stories from the winemaker/owner of NVP, narrated by Robo (burt) Reynolds offering deep local insight
Ideal way to kick off a weekend in wine country, start your day with exercise and a fresh perspective where the Napa River meets Carneros Estuary

UPGRADE YOUR EXPERIENCE

PRIVATE KANAKA BOAT

Let your guide do the work! Relax aboard a hand-crafted wooden kanaka boat modeled after those carrying early settlers to Napa Valley from arriving ships in the San Francisco Bay. Perfect for couples, friends, and families.

CATERING & TRANSPORT

Treat your group to a wine tasting, cheese and charcuterie, or a fully-catered spread. Complete the experience with transportation to and from your hotel or meeting facility. You provide the wish list and we'll do the rest!

PRIVATE EVENT SPACE

• Private riverfront cottage & grounds
• Charcuterie & wine tasting on-site
• Guided tour of Fagan Preserve
• Central to hiking, biking & wineries
• Local oysters! (Nov - April)
• Custom catering options

MORE DETAILS

RENTAL INCLUDES
Kayak or paddle board, life vest, paddle, pre-paddle orientation, and river overview

ACTIVITY LEVEL
Family-oriented paddling is best in the morning before 1 pm. This is safe, calm paddling environment with proximity to the shoreline at all times. Paddlers enjoy flat, calm water in a 5mph zone with very little boat traffic, particularly in the Oxbow. Paddleboarding at lower tide levels is not suitable for beginners. Paddling into the Oxbow generally requires over 1.5ft on the tide chart (we will advise you regarding the route)

PARKING
Plenty of parking is available in the 5th Street Parking Garage across the street from Riverfront Plaza. Street parking is limited to 2 hours on the street with no limits on Sunday.

WHAT TO WEAR
Water shoes are not essential but are preferred by many of our guests. Others prefer flip-flops or paddling barefoot. Dress in layers and synthetic clothing (it will dry faster than cotton).

WHAT TO BRING
Drinking water, sunscreen, light towel. We suggest using our dry bags or dry boxes for phones, wallets, and keys, or bring your own. We have a sports lanyard for your cellphone available for $20, free with our audio guide/navigational assistant.

CANCELLATION POLICY
Reservations canceled up to 48 hours before your scheduled launch will be refunded.

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