The Northwest Passage is a Wilmette-based adventure travel outfitter, operating since 1984, whose summer Kayak and SUP Camp takes participants ages 10–14 paddling kayaks and stand-up paddleboards on Chicagoland's local waterways, with a new challenge each day ($670). It also runs school-break youth camps, including an Outdoor Adventures spring break camp, a Junior PolarExplorers winter break camp led by professional polar guides, and single-day School's Out Adventures. The wider company guides family and adult trips locally and worldwide, from Lake Michigan paddleboarding to Kilimanjaro and the Galapagos. Daily camp hours are not published.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact The Northwest Passage directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
Camps nearby
Google Reviews
Powered by Google
★★★★★Theresa GravesThank you NWP, CP and Taylor for providing me the opportunity to leap into an adventure that far surpassed all of my expectations! The setting in the Aeolian Islands was magical, with crystal clear, azure water…I have never seen this color in real life! The landscape with cliffs and caves, rock arches and gardens was majestic. My skill level was advanced through this adventure challenge guided by the passion and knowledge of the NWP guides, CP and Taylor. Confident that safety was a high priority, they kept the spirit high (nautical smiles) and the Chi forces flowing strongly! Clearly, the NWP has a tremendous respect for, and rapport with, the local culture and people on these beautiful islands, who are all so warm and welcoming as was the camaraderie of like minded adventurers from all walks of life. I can’t wait for my next adventure with NWP! Theresa G., Wakefield, RI -Aeolian Islands, 2025
★★★★★Suzanne ErbAaaw, The Northwest Passage. A wonderful honeymoon spent with wonderful people. We had the privilege of going on the kayaking trip in Crete with them and had the best time ever! The trip was arranged in a comfortable manner that made two non-avid kayakers feel like champions conquering over 75 miles of the sea. I would highy recommend taking a trip with them. We look forward to reuniting with them someday.
★★★★★Marty LevinI have been on numerous trips with The Northwest Passage in the past six years and each trip has been extremely well organized and has delivered everything promised. My most recent trip to Roatan was an exhilarating adventure. Despite the strong winds, having C.P. as a guide provided a strong sense of security and reassurance. The combination of a thrilling challenge and safety ensured a memorable experience. The food was excellent and added to the total enjoyment of the total package.All my trips with The Northwest Passage have been positive and I am looking forward to a new adventure. Marty Levin
★★★★★Steven MatzIt is with great pleasure that I provide this review for The Northwest Passage. I have had the pleasure of traveling to Greece, Crete, Italy, and the Bahamas with The Northwest Passage. Each trip is challenging and rewarding. Rick and his staff makes sure that everyone is healthy, happy, and having a great time. Rick finds unique and fun accommodations, restaurants, and activities. The food is always good and since the logistics are already arranged, all the clients have to do is concentrate on enjoying themselves. I've been on a total of 8 trips and have brought a friend with on all of them. These trips seem to attract (or at least bring out) the best in people. I've met very interesting people from around the world and we all share a common goal...to have a good time. I am happy to recommend any trip arranged by The Northwest Passage without reservation.
★★★★★Mollene LevinMy kayak trip to the St. Aeolian Islands with The Northwest Passage was a truly fabulous experience. The islands themselves are known for their pristine beauty and untouched wilderness and exploring them by kayak allowed for an intimate connection with nature. From the moment I embarked on the adventure, every detail was perfectly arranged by The Northwest Passage team. The seamless coordination ensured a smooth and hassle free journey, allowing me to focus on the breathtaking surroundings. The hotels and their hosts surpassed my expectations. It's incredible how their genuine kindness enhanced the overall experience, making each stop along the way memorable. When it came to dining, the restaurants on the islands left a lasting impression. The food was not only good, but it reflected the local flavors with regional ingredients. A significant highlight of the trip was my guide and kayak buddy C.P. I have done numerous trips with C.P. and he always is instrumental in the fun of being on the trip. His passion for the areas always shines through with his knowledge of the areas history, geology, and wildlife of the islands that we travel to. Being with C.P. makes the kayaking an educational and a super adventure. Lastly, I cannot praise Rick enough for his commitment to safety and comfort. He has created an environment where every participant could fully immerse themselves in the trip without any worries. Based on my unforgettable experiences. I wholeheartedly recommend The Northwest Passage for their exceptional trips. Their attention to detail and dedication creates adventures of a lifetime. I'm already looking forward to my next trip with them. Marty Levin