Two leaders in adaptive paddling are collaborating on a better way to help paddlers of all abilities get on the water.

For adaptive paddlers, one of the most challenging parts of getting on the water can happen before the paddle ever begins: transferring safely and comfortably from a wheelchair into a kayak.Over the past several months, BoardSafe Docks and Creating Ability have been working together to explore a practical solution designed to make that important transition easier, more comfortable, and more accessible for paddlers of all abilities.

It’s a collaboration that makes sense. BoardSafe Docks has built its Adaptive Kayak Launch around something we believe is essential to good design: listen to the people who actually use it.

BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch was developed with input from adaptive paddlers, members of the Team River Runner community, recreation and physical therapists, disability advocates, and individuals including Ken Ryno, Bill Bogdan, Robert Amelio Jr., and others, who understand firsthand the challenges of accessing the water.
That input has helped BoardSafe continue to improve an adaptive launch system designed to provide greater independence, stability, and confidence at the water’s edge.

Creating Ability brings another important piece to that experience.
Since 2004, Creating Ability has helped make paddling possible for people with a wide range of abilities through adaptive kayaking equipment, education, demonstrations, and hands-on support. The company provides outfitted adaptive kayaks and specialized paddling equipment designed to help more people experience the freedom and enjoyment of being on the water. Creating Ability has traveled tens of thousands of miles supporting adaptive paddling events, organizations, individuals with disabilities, and their families.

Two Companies. One Shared Goal.
BoardSafe helps paddlers access the water.
Creating Ability helps paddlers adapt the paddling experience.

Now, we’re bringing those areas of expertise together to address one of the most important moments in adaptive paddling: the transfer from wheelchair to kayak. And we’re excited to share what we’ve been working on.

See It at #NRPA2026

BoardSafe Docks and Creating Ability will share Booth #2601 at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia.
We’ll be in the Exhibit Hall: September 29–30, 2026

Stop by Booth #2601 to meet Scott Tihansky and Tom Warchol from BoardSafe Docks and Kevin Carr from Creating Ability, and see what can happen when experience, innovation, and a shared commitment to accessibility come together.

This collaboration is about more than equipment. It’s about removing barriers between people and the water.

Stop back Monday for another pre-show announcement and a closer look at what we’ll be bringing to Philadelphia.
We look forward to seeing you at Booth #2601 | NRPA 2026 | Philadelphia