Description

Paddle in Search of Dolphins

There are few experiences like seeing a pod of dolphins porpoising in front of your kayak as you ply the waters of the Intercoastal Waterway. These much-loved mammals sometimes seem as curious about the strange creatures paddling as we are about them!  Your guide will tell you all about these marvelous creatures.  Along with dolphins, we’ll also get the chance to see numerous shorebirds, an occasional manatee and learn of the unique environment of the mangroves.

Our paddle begins at a local fish camp after a safety briefing and introduction to paddling.  Then we’ll push off into the 4,740 acres Mosquito Lagoon Aquatic Preserve in search of all things wild and wonderful.  Many people call this the Indian River, but that is a common mistake, even for locals.  The Indian “River” in this part is actually a lagoon which is a type of estuary characterized by restricted outlets to the sea.  This keeps the mixing of seawater and freshwater limited which helps keep the “saltiness” (or salinity) of the water high allowing several species of fish that spawn in the ocean to happily lay their eggs here.  The Mosquito Lagoon is one of the least developed of Florida’s 41 aquatic preserves partly because most of it is located within the boundaries of the Canaveral National Seashore, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, and Kennedy Space Center.   During the paddle, we may stop and tour Turtle Mound, one of the largest shell middens on Florida’s east coast.

A fun and exciting paddle suitable for everyone.

What to bring, what’s provided

What’s provided:  Kayak, personal floatation device (PFD), paddle, and drinking water.

What to bring:  bug spray and sunscreen of your choosing, beverages (other than water (please note: no alcohol during the tour)), shoes and clothing you don’t mind getting wet.

3 1/2 Hour Tours Tuesday – Sunday 8 am – 11:30 am, or 1:30 pm – 5 pm 
(Weather Permitting)