Our Story
More than 40 years ago, a young entrepreneur named Dan Pogorelc had a simple dream: to share the natural beauty of Swan River with others. Starting with just a handful of canoes and a passion for the outdoors, Dan built Cape Cod Waterways into one of Cape Cod’s most beloved attractions and one of the area’s must-do outdoor experiences for all ages.
Cape Cod Waterways has always been, and continues to be, a true family-owned and family-operated business. Every summer, Dan and his family work alongside with his dedicated staff to welcome guests, prepare boats, assist paddlers, and ensure every visitor enjoys a safe and memorable experience. If you visit us during the summer, you’ll likely see Dan’s young children helping around the boathouse, greeting guests, lending a hand, and learning the same values of hard work, hospitality, and stewardship that have guided our business for decades.
Over the decades, Swan River has become the backdrop for countless special moments. We’ve welcomed generations of families who first paddled these waters as children and now return with their own children and grandchildren to continue the tradition. Those returning families are the heart of our story and the reason we continue to do what we love!
We’ve celebrated bachelor and bachelorette parties, hosted company outings, school field trips, youth groups, birthday celebrations, and family reunions. It is an honor to be part of so many memories that bring people together through the beauty of nature!
In a world where children spend more time in front of screens than ever before, our mission has become even more meaningful. We believe some of life’s greatest memories are made outdoors watching a swan glide across the water, spotting a great blue heron in the marsh, laughing together in a canoe, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of nature.
Our goal is to provide local families and visitors to Cape Cod with an opportunity to unplug, reconnect with one another, and experience the wonders of Swan River. We are committed to preserving this special place and inspiring future generations to appreciate the outdoors, protect our natural environment, and create memories that last a lifetime.
We invite you to become part of our story and begin a tradition your family will cherish for generations to come!
Find Serenity on the
Ancient and Historic Swan River
through Cape Cod Waterways Boat Rentals
The Swan River
The Swan River wanders its way past islands and acres of conservation land to reach the tidal flats and sandbars of the Nantucket Sound.
“From our location people can enjoy a relaxing paddle either up to the islands of Swan Pond, or down to the mouth of the river on Nantucket Sound, in about an hour and half”
says owner Dan Pogorelc.
The River is affected
by the ebb and flow
of the Sound’s
tidal changes.
Based on that day’s tidal flow, the staff of Cape Cod Waterways Boat Rental is happy to make recommendations on the best course to chart for a relaxing paddle out on the river.
With acres of conservation land lining the shores of the river, there’s plenty of opportunity to spy on the area’s natural wildlife in action. Sightings of waterfowl, including herons, hawks, mallards and geese are virtually guaranteed. Inside the facility’s outfitting area is a chart to help identify some of the common birds to the area.
Heading south down the river toward Nantucket Sound boaters will pass spectacular homes set back from the water.
“As a matter of courtesy and out of respect for the wildlife we ask that our guest don’t stop on the private docks or the conservation land especially the narrow rivulet path while enjoying their outing,” notes Dan.
“However, there is a great little town beach on the west bank of the river just before you reach the Sound that is open to everyone to enjoy,” says Dan.
“There is also a temporary sand bar that forms at the mouth of the river which is open for people to pull the boats up on and enjoy a swim,” continued Dan.