Terms of Use

Effective October 18, 2026

Welcome to the website of Tip-A-Thumb Canoe Rental in Port Austin, Michigan. These terms describe the use of this website and provide general information about our rental operations. They do not replace the rental waiver provided on-site.

Website information

We aim to keep our website accurate and helpful. Rental details, prices, hours, and other information may be updated without prior notice. For questions regarding rental rates, availability, or operating conditions, please contact us before your visit.

Rentals and availability

Rentals are offered on a walk-up basis, subject to availability and operating conditions. Posted prices and hours may change. Weather, water conditions, staffing, or other operational circumstances may affect rentals or require us to suspend operations.

River use and state park access

Tip-A-Thumb Canoe Rental provides canoes and kayaks for use on the Pinnebog River. Rental equipment is intended for river use only.

Customers may choose to visit the public beach or other state park property during their outing. Such visits are optional and are not part of the rental service. Customers are responsible for following all applicable Michigan state park rules and regulations while on park property.

Inherent Risks of Canoeing & Kayaking

Canoeing and kayaking involve inherent risks, including changing water conditions, currents, weather, and contact with natural obstacles.

Michigan law, MCL 324.44520a, addresses the assumption of inherent risks associated with the use or operation of nonmotorized rental boats.

Customers are expected to exercise caution, follow safety instructions, and use rental equipment responsibly.

Rental waiver and safety

Before participating in a canoe or kayak rental, an individual or an individual representing their party must sign the rental waiver provided on-site. Participants are expected to follow staff instructions and applicable safety requirements. Canoeing and kayaking involve risks associated with outdoor recreation, water, and changing conditions.

The rental waiver is provided and signed on-site and is separate from the website's Terms of Use.

Equipment return and responsibility

All rental equipment, including canoes, kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, must be returned by the designated return time. All rental equipment must be returned by 6:00 PM on the same day as the rental, unless staff provides different instructions.

Customers are responsible for equipment issued to their party. Lost, stolen, damaged, or unreturned equipment may result in additional charges in accordance with the signed rental agreement.

Right to refuse service

Tip-A-Thumb Canoe Rental reserves the right to refuse or discontinue rental services when necessary for safety, failure to follow rental policies or staff instructions, or other legitimate business reasons, in accordance with applicable law.

Website content

Unless otherwise indicated, original website text, photographs, graphics, and branding are owned by Tip-A-Thumb Canoe Rental or used with permission. Please contact us before reproducing our original content. Third-party names and materials remain the property of their respective owners.

Links to other websites

Links to local businesses and other websites are provided for convenience. We do not control those websites or their content, policies, or availability.

Changes and questions

We may update these Terms of Use as our website or operations change. The current version will appear here with its effective date. For questions, please use the contact information on our Contact & Directions section.