Central Florida Bioluminescent Kayak / Paddle Board Excursion

Exploring the bioluminescent waters of Central Florida’s Indian River Lagoons is a captivating experience. Gliding through this unique ecosystem under the stars, adventurers can witness the enchanting glow of dinoflagellates and comb jellies. Led by expert guides, small groups paddle either kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, seeing this natural wonder. With insights into the local wildlife, the excursion promises an unforgettable connection with the region’s remarkable ecosystem. What else might this guided tour reveal about this captivating natural phenomenon?

Good To Know

• Experience the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent comb jellies and dinoflagellates during a nighttime kayak or paddleboard tour in the Indian River Lagoons near Orlando, Florida.

• Enjoy a small-group excursion with a maximum of 12 travelers, providing an intimate and memorable connection with the natural environment.

• Discover diverse marine life, including potential sightings of dolphins, and use provided nets to observe the captivating creatures up close.

• Benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and accommodations for guests exceeding the 285 lbs. equipment weight limit.

• Prioritize safety, as the tour operates rain or shine with exceptions for severe weather, and guides will postpone the excursion if conditions become unsafe.

Tour Overview

The bioluminescent kayak or paddleboard excursion takes participants on a small-group tour through the Indian River Lagoons near Orlando, Florida.

At night, guests paddle among glowing dinoflagellates and encounter bioluminescent comb jellies that illuminate upon contact, offering a unique adventure.

The tour provides nets for viewing the jellies and bug spray to ensure comfort.

With 102 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, the experience has earned a Badge of Excellence, promising an unforgettable encounter with the area’s natural wonders under the stars.

Booking Information and Requirements

The bioluminescent kayak or paddleboard excursion costs from $65.00 per person.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for free. The tour group is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, with a minimum required for operation.

The equipment has a weight limit of 285 lbs, and the company can accommodate guests who exceed this. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.

Guests should provide up-to-date contact information in case of any weather-related changes or delays. Safety is a priority, and the tour may be postponed for severe weather conditions.

Weather and Safety Policies

Although the tours operate rain or shine, the company does make exceptions for severe weather conditions like thunder, lightning, and heavy winds.

In the event of unsafe conditions, a 30-minute weather hold may be implemented, and refunds will be provided.

Guests are responsible for providing up-to-date contact information to receive any changes or updates.

Messages regarding weather-related adjustments will be sent through the Viator message center, so guests are encouraged to check their messages on the day of the tour.

Guided Experience and Customer Feedback

Guides on the bioluminescent kayak/paddleboard excursions are knowledgeable about the local bioluminescence and wildlife, which is evident in the positive reviews.

Guests highlight the friendly and accommodating nature of the guides, who provide safety measures and guidance for first-time participants, ensuring an overall enjoyable experience.

Notable encounters during the tours include:

• Dolphins
• Jellyfish
• Stunning night views
• Memorable experiences
• Safety and guidance for first-timers

The guides’ expertise and the unique encounters contribute to the 96% recommendation rate and Badge of Excellence for this tour.

Additional Information and Future Tours

Excursions may change locations based on bioluminescence levels, so guests should check for any updates via the message center.

The tour company remains open to accommodating future visits, especially during peak bioluminescence season. Guests are encouraged to experience the bioluminescent phenomenon again, as conditions can vary nightly.

For direct inquiries, customers can reach the company at 407-923-5685 or [email protected].

Given the unique and ever-changing nature of the bioluminescent displays, it’s recommended that guests plan to join the tour again on a future visit to discover new perspectives of this natural wonder.

Location and Accessibility

The central Florida location of the bioluminescent kayak/paddleboard excursion is in the Indian River Lagoons, near the city of Orlando.

The meeting point is at 951 Kiwanis Island Park Rd, Merritt Island, FL.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.

The equipment has a maximum weight limit of 285 lbs, but accommodations can be made for those exceeding it.

The tour:

• Is located in the Indian River Lagoons near Orlando
• Has a meeting point at 951 Kiwanis Island Park Rd, Merritt Island, FL
• Isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate
• Has an equipment weight limit of 285 lbs with accommodations available
• Is in a central Florida location convenient to the Orlando area

Unique Wildlife Encounters

While paddling through the bioluminescent waters, guests may encounter a variety of mesmerizing marine life.

One highlight is the comb jellies, which illuminate upon contact, offering a unique and awe-inspiring experience. As guests gently navigate their kayaks or paddleboards, they can use provided nets to catch and observe these captivating creatures up close.

Plus, guests may spot dolphins playfully swimming nearby, adding to the overall sense of wonder and connection with the natural world.

These unexpected wildlife encounters are sure to make the bioluminescent excursion an unforgettable experience.

What to Expect on the Excursion

As guests arrive at the meeting point on Kiwanis Island Park Road, they’ll be greeted by the tour guides, who’ll provide a safety briefing and overview of the evening’s activities.

The guides will equip guests with the necessary gear, including:

• Kayaks or paddleboards
• Life jackets
• Nets for viewing bioluminescent comb jellies
• Bug spray

Once on the water, guests will paddle through the Indian River Lagoons, marveling at the glowing dinoflagellates that illuminate the surroundings.

The guides will share their expertise, pointing out unique wildlife encounters along the way.

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the excursion offers an intimate, memorable experience under the stars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Equipment for the Tour?

Customers can’t bring their own equipment for the tour. The tour provides the necessary kayaks or paddleboards, and doesn’t allow participants to use their own gear. This ensures safety and consistency across the group experience.

What Should I Wear and Bring for the Excursion?

Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothes and shoes that can get wet. Bring a waterproof bag for personal items, a headlamp or flashlight, bug spray, and a camera to capture the glowing bioluminescence. The tour provides all necessary paddling equipment.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements?

There are no age restrictions, but children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants must be able to follow safety instructions and get in/out of the kayak or paddleboard independently. Contact the tour provider for any special accommodations.

Is Food or Refreshments Provided During the Tour?

No, food and refreshments are not provided during the tour. Guests are responsible for bringing their own snacks and beverages as needed. The focus of the experience is on the bioluminescent kayaking or paddleboarding itself.

Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Kayak/Paddleboard Experience?

Guests are welcome to take photos and videos during the kayak/paddleboard experience. The guides encourage capturing the stunning bioluminescent displays, though flash photography may disturb the natural glow. Guests should ensure their devices are waterproof or secured in a dry bag.

The Sum Up

This bioluminescent kayak or paddleboard tour offers a truly enchanting experience in Central Florida’s Indian River Lagoons. Guests can marvel at the mesmerizing glow of nature’s wonders, accompanied by expert guides who share insights about the local wildlife. With up to 12 travelers per group, the intimate tour provides a captivating connection with the natural world under a starlit sky.