Illuminated Night Kayaking at the Elysian Resort

If you’re looking for a unique way to see St. Thomas from a fresh perspective, illuminated night kayaking offers an intriguing blend of adventure, serenity, and a touch of magic. While I haven’t personally paddled under the stars here, reviews and descriptions suggest this activity offers both a visually stunning experience and the chance to connect with the waters in a peaceful, laid-back setting.

What draws many travelers is not just the glowing kayaks, but the knowledgeable guides who lead small groups—no crowded tour buses here, just intimate outings with a maximum of eight participants. Plus, the chance to unwind afterward with drinks in hand makes this a charming end to an active evening. However, some might consider the 6:30 pm start time and the possibility of choppy waters, especially if weather conditions turn rough.

This tour seems best suited for those who appreciate nature’s quiet beauty, enjoy gentle outdoor activities, and like the idea of experiencing the Caribbean’s waters in a more intimate, less traditional way. If you’re after a memorable, relaxing, yet fun experience with some storytelling and gorgeous views, this night kayaking trip might just be your ticket to a magical evening.

Key Points

• Small group setting enhances intimacy and personalized attention.
• Guided experience ensures safety and local insight.
• Glowing kayaks create a stunning visual of the Caribbean waters at night.
• Post-tour drinks add a social, relaxing element.
• Excellent reviews highlight fun guides and good value.
• Weather-dependent cancellations are possible, so flexibility can matter.

Discovering a Different Side of St. Thomas

The Illuminated Night Kayaking tour at the Elysian Beach Resort offers a glimpse of St. Thomas from a different angle—gliding across glowing waters after sunset. The activity is scheduled to start at 6:30 pm, giving you the chance to see the sea in a calm, magical light while the world around quiets down.

For travelers unfamiliar with night kayaking, this activity provides a fascinating blend of gentle exercise and visual wonder. Paddling under a starlit sky with your kayak lit up makes for an incredibly photogenic experience, often described as both relaxing and exciting. As one traveler noted, “Even if we hadn’t seen any sea life, the night kayaking is really fun and relaxing.”

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Meeting at the Water Sports hut at Elysian Beach Resort at 6:00 pm sets the tone for an organized, safe outing. A quick safety briefing ensures everyone knows how to handle the illuminated kayaks, which are designed specifically for this activity to glow in the dark, creating a mesmerizing effect on the water.

By approximately 6:30 pm, you’ll launch into the Caribbean waters, paddling alongside a small group led by a local guide. The guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and their ability to share interesting facts about the marine environment, even in the dark. The tour lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, ending around 7:45 pm when you return to the shore.

What makes this experience special is the underwater illumination. As you glide, you’ll see the water beneath you light up with bioluminescent-like effects, revealing glimpses of the sea life and the textures of the ocean floor, if you’re lucky. Several reviews mention the impressive sight of big fish and marine activity, even at night.

Post-Kayaking Relaxation and Refreshments

After returning to the beach, the tour continues with a relaxed gathering. The guides serve fruit and rum punch, adding a tropical flair to your evening. Many travelers appreciate this social component, which allows for photos, sharing stories, and simply soaking in the peaceful night vibes.

The cost of $82 per person is generally seen as reasonable, especially considering the small group size, guided attention, and the unique experience of night paddling. The inclusion of drinks and the chance to capture memorable moments via guide-provided photos adds value to the fee.

Authenticity and Guide Expertise

One of the standout features—highlighted repeatedly in reviews—is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Jim K remarked, “The guides seem to really have fun doing the tours,” and many mention how helpful and engaging their guides were throughout the activity. This personal touch transforms a simple kayaking trip into a memorable adventure.

Plus, reviews praise the small group setting for its intimate atmosphere, allowing everyone to feel comfortable and get individual attention. This is especially important if you’re new to kayaking or a bit wary about night activities.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour’s duration is around 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it suitable for most travelers without feeling overly long or rushed. Arriving at 6:00 pm for the safety briefing ensures you’re ready to launch at 6:30 pm. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making transportation straightforward.

Group size is limited to eight travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and manageable. The tour is accessible to most travelers, but some reviews suggest that back support in the kayak would be helpful for older or less physically able participants. It’s worth considering your comfort level with paddling, especially in choppy waters, which can sometimes occur.

Weather can impact the experience, as the tour is weather-dependent. In case of rough waters or storms, the activity may be canceled, with a full refund or rescheduling options available.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The glowing reviews reveal a lot about what makes this tour appealing. Several mention how fun and relaxing they found the kayaking, with marine life sightings adding to the thrill. One reviewer shared, “We saw some big fish! The water is so warm!” which hints at the natural beauty you’ll encounter.

On the flip side, a few reviews highlight potential drawbacks. For example, one traveler had to cut their trip short due to a kayak without back support, which serves as a reminder to consider comfort needs. Another noted that rough waters can be a concern, so checking the weather forecast beforehand is wise.

The consistent praise for the guides’ friendliness and the value for money makes this activity stand out as a worthwhile choice for adventurous, curious travelers eager for a night-time sea adventure.

This illuminated night kayaking tour offers an excellent mix of adventure, serenity, and gorgeous visuals. It’s perfect for small groups of friends or couples who enjoy being outdoors and appreciate the quiet beauty of the sea after dark. Its affordable price point and the chance to relax with drinks afterward make it a smart pick for those wanting a memorable, unique experience without breaking the bank.

Travelers who value local guides with good knowledge and friendly attitudes will find this tour adds a personal touch to their time in St. Thomas. Because the activity is weather-dependent and involves paddling in unfamiliar conditions, it’s best suited for those in good health, comfortable with water-based activities, and open to a bit of the unknown.

In summary, if you’re after a fun, visually stunning way to see St. Thomas’s waters and don’t mind a small adventure at night, this tour offers a memorable slice of Caribbean life—lit up with a touch of magic.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with limited mobility or concerns about paddling in choppy waters should consider their comfort level.

How long does the tour last?
The activity runs for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, starting at 6:30 pm and ending around 7:45 pm.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the illuminated kayak experience, plus post-tour fruit and rum punch. Gratuities are not included.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at the Water Sports hut at Club Wyndham Elysian Beach Resort in Nazareth, St. Thomas.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather is poor or water conditions are rough, the tour might be canceled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a reschedule.

Can I bring my own camera or phone?
While not explicitly stated, many guides take photos during the trip and share them afterward, making it easier to capture the experience without risking your own devices.

This glowing evening adventure offers a lovely way to connect with the waters of St. Thomas in a relaxing, intimate setting. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a curious beginner, illuminated night kayaking promises a chance to see the Caribbean in a whole new light—literally.