Dinoflagellate Bioluminescence Kayak

Bioluminescence Kayak Tour. Rated 4.8 across 928 reviews. Runs 2 hours. From $75.

Overview

This is a two hour paddle after dark with A Day Away Kayak Tours, out of Kelly Park East on North Banana River Drive in Merritt Island. You launch into the Banana River lagoon, where tiny organisms light up the water when it is disturbed. Guides supply the kayak, paddle and life jacket, and paddle with the group the whole time.

The experience changes with the season. In warmer months the glowing plankton can be intense, and reviewers from summer trips describe water that lit up at the slightest touch, with fish leaving glow trails as they jumped. Reviewers who went in cooler months still described the night on the water and the stars as worthwhile.

It suits most travellers, per the listing. The group can run large, up to 42 travellers, so expect a social outing rather than a private float. You meet at the park, there is no hotel pickup, and you finish back where you started.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at Kelly Park EastArrive at Kelly Park East, 2504-2526 N Banana River Dr, Merritt Island, FL. There is no hotel pickup, so you make your own way there.
2. Gear upGuides hand out kayaks, paddles and personal flotation devices for the trip. A safety light is provided.
3. Paddle the lagoonThe two hour tour heads out onto the water after dark. Guides point out wildlife such as glowing jellyfish and fish.
4. Return to shoreThe tour ends back at the Kelly Park East meeting point. You may bring your own flashlight if you wish.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make the night go better, from what to wear to what the glow will actually look like.

• What to wear. The listing says to wear clothes you do not mind getting wet and water shoes such as sandals or Crocs. Bring a towel to leave in the car and a spare change of clothes just in case.
• Season matters. If the glowing plankton is the main draw, timing the visit for the on season gives the best odds.
• Photos are hard. The listing is blunt that cameras are fairly useless for capturing the bioluminescence, though good for shots of people. Several reviewers regretted not getting decent pictures, so plan to experience it rather than document it. A dry bag is optional.
• Knowledgeable guides. Reviewer after reviewer praises the guides for knowing the science behind the glow and the local ecosystem.
• Large group feel. The tour can take up to 42 travellers, so it is a group outing with multiple guides rather than an intimate paddle. Reviewers describe it as fun and social.
• Bring water and snacks. Bottled water and snacks are recommended in the listing. Any personal paddling gear you prefer can be brought along, and a flashlight is allowed although a safety light is provided.

Common issues. The listing states the tour is not wheelchair accessible, groups can be large, and hotel pickup is not included, so you need your own transport to Merritt Island.

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