Florida Bioluminescence Clear Kayak Tour | Cocoa Beach (Kiwanis Island)

The Florida Bioluminescence Clear Kayak Tour in Cocoa Beach offers a unique opportunity to witness the mesmerizing glow of nature at its finest. Paddling through the only bioluminescent bay in the continental U.S., adventurers can expect to encounter a dazzling display of millions of plankton illuminating the waters. With the added potential for sightings of dolphins and stingrays, this two to three-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. However, the true wonder lies in the unobstructed view from the clear kayaks, allowing for a truly immersive encounter with the bioluminescent phenomenon.

Key Points

• Experience the natural phenomenon of bioluminescent plankton in the waters around Cocoa Beach and Merritt Island.
• Paddle in a clear kayak to witness the illuminated water teeming with millions of tiny plankton.
• Potential sightings of wildlife like dolphins, stingrays, and crabs during the 2-3 hour tour.
• Small group tours with a maximum of 20 participants, providing personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.
• Flexibility in booking with a "reserve now and pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

The Florida Bioluminescence Kayak Tour provides travelers with the opportunity to experience the captivating natural phenomenon of bioluminescent plankton in the waters of Cocoa Beach.

Participants paddle between Cocoa Beach and Merritt Island, witnessing the illuminated water teeming with millions of tiny plankton. This tour is unique as it takes place in the only bioluminescent bay in the continental US.

Guests may also spot marine life like dolphins, stingrays, and crabs during the journey. The clear kayaks offer unobstructed views, allowing for a truly immersive experience with this natural wonder.

Tour Details

Small group tours are offered for a personalized experience, with a maximum of 20 travelers.

The tour includes all necessary equipment: a personal floatation device, paddle, whistle, flashlight, and glow stick.

Guests are advised to arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time at the meeting point, Florida Adventurer, located at 951 Kiwanis Island Park Rd, Merritt Island, FL 32952.

Late arrivals will not be eligible for refunds.

The tour lasts approximately 2-3 hours, exploring the bioluminescent waters between Cocoa Beach and Merritt Island using clear kayaks for unobstructed views of the illuminated plankton.

Health and Safety Information

Not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart issues, or pregnant individuals. The bioluminescent kayak tour has certain health and safety considerations. There is a weight limit of 215 lbs per passenger, with a total weight limit of 430 lbs. The tour is wheelchair accessible, providing accessibility for those with mobility challenges. However, for travelers exceeding the weight limit, an alternative bioluminescent activity with higher weight tolerance is available.

Health and Safety
Back Problems	✗
Heart Issues	✗
Pregnant	✗
Weight Limit	215 lbs/person	430 lbs total
Wheelchair Accessible	✓

Customer Experiences

Feedback on the bioluminescent kayak tour experience has been varied. Many customers praised the knowledgeable guides who enhanced the experience despite challenging weather conditions.

Reviewers appreciated the personalized attention and small group size. However, some noted issues with the equipment, such as leaking kayaks and malfunctioning flashlights, which affected the overall experience.

Despite these challenges, guides were often commended for their ability to adapt and ensure customers still enjoyed the unique bioluminescent sights.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The price for the Florida Bioluminescence Kayak Tour is $80.00 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Booking this tour offers flexibility, as the company provides a "reserve now and pay later" option.

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing customers to adjust their plans as needed.

This policy ensures that travelers can book the tour with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change.

Discovering the Bioluminescent Plankton

The Florida Bioluminescence Kayak Tour allows visitors to witness the mesmerizing display of the area’s bioluminescent plankton.

These microscopic marine organisms emit a bright blue-green glow when disturbed, creating a captivating natural light show on the water’s surface.

As kayakers paddle through the calm, dark waters, the plankton illuminate the path, transforming the experience into a magical, otherworldly adventure.

Participants can observe the bioluminescent phenomenon up close, spotting schools of fish and other marine life that become illuminated as they move through the glowing water.

This unique natural attraction is a must-see for nature enthusiasts visiting Cocoa Beach.

Wildlife and Marine Life Spotting

Numerous marine species inhabit the waters surrounding the kayaking route, providing opportunities for wildlife sightings during the tour.

Guests may spot playful dolphins gliding through the water or graceful stingrays moving along the surface. Crabs and other crustaceans can often be seen scurrying along the shoreline.

The clear kayaks allow for unobstructed views of the aquatic life, enhancing the overall experience. While sightings are not guaranteed, the calm waters and diverse ecosystem increase the chances of encountering fascinating marine creatures.

Guides are knowledgeable about the local wildlife and can provide information to help identify and appreciate the observed species.

The Unobstructed Kayak Experience

Typically, the clear kayaks used during the Florida Bioluminescence Kayak Tour provide unobstructed views of the illuminated waters and their captivating marine inhabitants.

This transparent design offers several advantages:

• Passengers can fully enjoy the natural bioluminescent display, without any visual obstructions.

• The clear kayaks allow for easy spotting of wildlife, such as dolphins, stingrays, and crabs, as they swim alongside the tour.

• The unobstructed views enhance the overall experience, enabling participants to fully appreciate the mesmerizing glow of the plankton-filled waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Dress for the Tour?

The tour operator recommends wearing comfortable, lightweight clothing that can get wet. Close-toed shoes are advised for safety and traction in the kayak. Participants should also bring a light jacket or sweater in case the evening is cool.

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

The tour operator recommends bringing waterproof bags or pouches to keep personal items dry, as well as extra layers of clothing in case of changing weather conditions. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle are also advisable to bring.

Are Pictures/Videos Allowed During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take pictures and videos during the tour, though it is advised to use caution and avoid disturbing the natural environment. The tour operator may provide specific guidance on photography and videography during the experience.

Can I Switch My Tour Date if Needed?

According to the tour details, the booking and cancellation policies allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This suggests that date changes may also be possible, subject to availability and within the same cancellation period.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The minimum age requirement for participants on this tour is not specified in the provided information. Tours typically have age restrictions, so prospective travelers should inquire with the tour operator about the minimum age policy before booking.

The Sum Up

The Florida Bioluminescence Clear Kayak Tour in Cocoa Beach offers a unique opportunity to witness the enchanting glow of millions of bioluminescent plankton. With a knowledgeable guide, small group sizes, and all necessary equipment provided, this 2-3 hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience on the water, with potential sightings of dolphins and stingrays. The clear kayaks allow for an unobstructed view of the mesmerizing natural phenomenon.