2 Hour Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Gilchrist Blue

Enjoy the captivating waters of Gilchrist Blue Springs, Florida, during a 2-hour glass bottom guided kayak eco-tour. Glide through the mesmerizing Santa Fe River and explore five freshwater springs, including the breathtaking Gilchrist Blue Springs, while enjoying unparalleled underwater visibility from the comfort of your 100% see-through kayak. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot vibrant aquatic life and, if you’re lucky, even catch a glimpse of the elusive manatee. This personalized adventure in a small group setting promises an unforgettable exploration of Florida’s natural wonders.

Good To Know

• A 2-hour guided kayaking tour on the Santa Fe River, Florida, with opportunities to see freshwater springs, including the renowned Gilchrist Blue Springs.
• Experience crystal-clear, turquoise water and vibrant aquatic life through 100% see-through kayaks designed for unparalleled underwater visibility.
• Knowledgeable guides provide commentary on the local ecology and wildlife, including the chance to spot manatees and colorful fish.
• The tour is designed for small groups (maximum 10 travelers) to ensure personalized attention and an immersive connection with the natural environment.
• Includes necessary equipment, such as clear kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, as well as accessibility features, making the tour suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Tour Overview

The Gilchrist Blue Kayak Eco Tour offers a 2-hour guided kayaking experience exploring the Santa Fe River in Florida.

Travelers can expect to visit five freshwater springs, including the stunning Gilchrist Blue Springs. The tour features 100% see-through kayaks, allowing for unobstructed views of the underwater world.

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small group size ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide. The tour has received an impressive 5.0 rating based on 74 reviews, with 99% of travelers recommending the experience.

Conveniently located near public transportation, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers.

Experience the Kayak Eco Tour

Step aboard the transparent kayaks and embark on an unforgettable 2-hour guided eco-tour along the serene Santa Fe River.

Glide effortlessly through the crystal-clear waters, marveling at the vibrant underwater world below. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to five freshwater springs, including the stunning Gilchrist Blue Springs, revealing the diverse ecosystem teeming with life.

Paddle past lush vegetation and spot native wildlife, from manatees to schools of brightly colored fish. This small-group adventure offers personalized attention, ensuring an immersive and educational experience.

Enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty of this Florida gem, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Exploring Gilchrist Blue Springs

As the tour progresses, the kayaks glide effortlessly toward the jewel of the river – Gilchrist Blue Springs. This crystal-clear, turquoise spring boasts a captivating underwater world. Swimmers can glimpse the vibrant aquatic life and lush vegetation through the transparent kayaks.

The spring’s constant 72°F temperature creates a serene, inviting atmosphere. Paddling around the spring’s perimeter, visitors witness the powerful flow of water and gain a deeper appreciation for this natural wonder.

The tour guide shares fascinating insights, highlighting the springs’ ecological significance and the diverse wildlife that call it home. Exploring Gilchrist Blue Springs is a truly immersive and educational experience, leaving participants with a profound connection to this unique natural treasure.

Features of the Glass Bottom Kayaks

These transparent kayaks are the cornerstone of the Gilchrist Blue Kayak Eco Tour, offering visitors a one-of-a-kind underwater viewing experience. The crystal-clear kayaks allow for unobstructed sightlines into the river’s depths, revealing the vibrant aquatic life and stunning natural scenery. Paddlers can marvel at the diverse ecosystem, including colorful fish, lush aquatic vegetation, and the mesmerizing Gilchrist Blue Springs.

Feature	Benefit
100% See-Through Design	Unparalleled Underwater Views
Durable Construction	Stable and Comfortable Ride
Lightweight Materials	Easy Maneuverability
Spacious Interiors	Accommodate Singles and Pairs

The glass-bottom kayaks are engineered to provide an immersive and unforgettable eco-adventure, making the Gilchrist Blue Kayak Eco Tour a truly unique and captivating experience.

Tour Guide and Included Amenities

The Gilchrist Blue Kayak Eco Tour is enhanced by the knowledgeable tour guides who lead each excursion. They provide informative commentary about the local flora, fauna, and history of the Santa Fe River.

Participants are equipped with clear kayaks, dry bags, paddles, life jackets, safety whistles, and goggles, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural beauty. A $5 parking fee at Rum Island County Park is required, but gratuities for the guide aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention and an intimate experience exploring five freshwater springs, including the stunning Gilchrist Blue Springs.

Accessibility and Health Considerations

Despite the natural beauty of the Gilchrist Blue Kayak Eco Tour, the activity may not be suitable for all travelers. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and near public transportation. However, it is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.

Accessibility	Health Considerations
Wheelchair accessible	Not recommended for back problems
Stroller accessible	Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Near public transportation	Not recommended for serious medical conditions

Travelers should carefully consider their physical abilities before booking this tour. The clear kayaks provide a unique and immersive experience, but may not be suitable for everyone.

Booking and Pricing Information

Booking the Gilchrist Blue Kayak Eco Tour is straightforward. The tour costs $72.00 per person and is non-refundable.

Travelers meet at 1447 S W Rum Island Terrace, Fort White, FL 32038, USA, and the tour returns to the same location. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

The tour includes clear kayaks, dry bags, paddles, life jackets, safety whistles, and goggles. A parking fee of $5 at Rum Island County Park is required.

Gratuities for the knowledgeable tour guide aren’t included. Restrooms, park benches, and BBQ pits are available on-site for visitors’ convenience.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Reaching the meeting point for the Gilchrist Blue Kayak Eco Tour is a straightforward affair.

The tour departs from 1447 S W Rum Island Terrace in Fort White, Florida, just a short drive from the main entrance to Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park. Visitors can expect to pay a $5 parking fee upon arrival at Rum Island County Park, the designated meeting location.

With ample parking available, guests can conveniently access the tour’s meeting point and prepare for their guided kayaking adventure on the Santa Fe River.

The tour’s ending point is also right back at the Rum Island County Park, making for an effortless return journey.

Things To Known

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour information indicates that restrooms, park benches, and BBQ pits are available on-site, providing a convenient space to enjoy any personal snacks or beverages.

Are Pets Allowed on the Kayak Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the kayak tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals for the safety and comfort of all participants. Only service animals are permitted on the tour.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour is non-refundable, and there are no refunds available. Customers should review the company’s cancellation policy before booking to ensure they understand the terms and conditions.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate?

No, participants do not need to know how to swim for this tour. The clear kayaks provide a safe and stable platform, and life jackets are provided as a precautionary measure. The tour is designed to be accessible for all skill levels.

Can I Request a Specific Departure Time for the Tour?

Yes, travelers can request a specific departure time for the tour, subject to availability. The tour company will do its best to accommodate the preferred departure time, though it may not always be possible to honor every request.

Sum Up

The Glass Bottom Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Gilchrist Blue Springs, Florida, offers an unforgettable experience. Paddle through the stunning Santa Fe River in transparent kayaks, spotting vibrant aquatic life and manatees as a knowledgeable guide leads you to five freshwater springs, including the mesmerizing Gilchrist Blue Springs. With personalized attention in a small group setting, this eco-tour provides an immersive and educational adventure in a serene natural environment.