Portsmouth Harbor is normally associated with the Piscataqua River's vicious seven-knot currents, standing waves and whirlpools -- no place for a novice paddler. But there's also a quieter option: The area generally called Little Harbor, tucked in behind New Castle.

Yesterday I joined a group trip run by Portsmouth Kayak Adventures, a company located off the beaten path on Rt. 1B at the Witch Cove Marina.

Launching at Portsmouth Kayak Adventures, at Witch Cove Marina.
SCOTT ANDREWS PHOTO

Owner Bill Downey and guide Connor Seery took a group of 12 -- mostly novices -- out into the island-spangled area roughly bounded the Rt. 1A and 1B bridges. I'd paddled the Piscataqua before, but never this section.

It was a pleasant eye-opener: Very quiet, protected water, with fine views of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, our nation's oldest. Also fine views of Wentworth-by-the-Sea, a grand old hotel that dates from 1874. It was re-opened in 2003 after years of decline by the Marriott chain of resorts.

Heading toward the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
SCOTT ANDREWS PHOTO

Portsmouth Kayak Adventures owner Bill Downey.
SCOTT ANDREWS PHOTO

Guide Connor Seery.
SCOTT ANDREWS PHOTO

A couple in a tandem kayak heads toward the former Naval prison, part of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
SCOTT ANDREWS PHOTO

Portsmouth Kayak Adventures got started in 1999 and specializes in group paddles and rentals. On yesterday's outing I noticed the guides' emphasis on safety protocols and their enthusiasm for interpreting the natural and social history of the area.

Definitely plan to return!

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