The Clear Kayak Ecotour in Destin and Ft. Walton Beach offers an immersive experience for those seeking to explore the stunning local waterways. With a maximum group size of 10, guests can embark on a peaceful and educational adventure in clear tandem kayaks, starting at just $64.95. The tour not only provides the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, including stingrays and jellyfish, but also emphasizes safety with provided equipment and trained guides. For the moderately fit and curious, this ecotour promises an unforgettable connection with nature in a breathtaking setting. What more could one ask for?
This experience made our list of the 9 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Destin.
Key Points
- Participants can enjoy a 4.7-star rated clear kayak ecotour in Destin and Fort Walton Beach, Florida, with a maximum group size of 10 travelers.
- The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as tandem kayaks, personal flotation devices, and paddles, with a focus on immersing in the natural beauty and wildlife.
- Participants must meet moderate fitness requirements, and children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult, with weight limits of 250 lbs per individual and 425 lbs combined.
- Guides assess weather conditions before and during the tour, and may cancel if conditions are deemed unsafe, with safety equipment and training provided.
- The tour meeting point is located in Mary Esther, FL, and is easily accessible by public transportation or driving, with ample parking available.
Tour Overview and Details
The Clear Kayak Ecotour in Destin, Ft. Walton Beach is a highly-rated, eco-friendly tour that allows travelers to explore the area’s natural beauty from the comfort of a transparent kayak.
The tour has a 4.7-star rating from 21 reviews and is recommended by 96% of travelers. The meeting point is located at 101 W Miracle Strip Pkwy, Mary Esther, FL 32569, and the maximum group size is 10 travelers.
Priced from $64.95, the tour includes a tandem kayak, personal flotation device, paddles, and kayak seats. Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level, and children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Wildlife viewing is best during morning and evening tours.
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What’s Included
The Clear Kayak Ecotour includes a tandem kayak, personal flotation device, paddles, and kayak seats. All necessary equipment is provided, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Gratuities are also included in the tour price. However, guests are advised to bring their own reusable water bottle, as this isn’t provided.
The clear kayaks have a weight limit of 250 lbs per individual and 425 lbs combined for two paddlers, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.
With all the necessary gear taken care of, participants can focus on seeing the natural beauty and wildlife of the area during this unique eco-tour.
Participant Requirements and Recommendations
Accessibility and physical ability are important considerations for the Clear Kayak Ecotour.
The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Those with back problems, heart issues, or serious medical conditions shouldn’t participate. A moderate fitness level is required, as the activity can be physically demanding.
For families with children, a moderate fitness level is recommended, with one adult required for every child under 15. Children can’t paddle without an adult.
The clear kayaks have weight limits of 250 lbs per individual and 425 lbs combined for two paddlers.
Tour Experience and Wildlife
Wildlife viewing is recommended during morning and evening tours for a quieter experience, as conditions can vary based on winds, tides, and weather.
The clear kayaks have a weight limit of 250 lbs per individual and 425 lbs combined for two paddlers, so guests should keep this in mind.
Kayaking can be physically demanding, and guests may see a variety of marine life, including stingrays, jellyfish, and birds.
Guests have described the experience as peaceful, fun, and educational, though some have noted challenges with wind conditions impacting the tour.
Guest Reviews and Experiences
Guests have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with many reporting sightings of diverse marine life, including stingrays, jellyfish, and birds.
Experiences have been described as peaceful, fun, and educational, with the clear kayaks allowing for an immersive and unique perspective of the local waterways.
While some guests noted challenges with wind conditions impacting the experience, the overall consensus is that the tour provides a memorable and enjoyable adventure.
The combination of knowledgeable guides, diverse wildlife, and the clear kayak design has captivated visitors, making this ecotour a highly recommended activity in the Destin and Fort Walton Beach area.
Safety and Weather Considerations
The tour’s guides closely monitor weather conditions and wind speeds before and during the tours, prioritizing the safety of participants. If conditions are deemed unsafe, the tour may be canceled or postponed.
Guests are advised to allow ample travel time during the peak season (April-September) due to potential traffic delays.
The tour’s safety considerations include:
- Guides are trained to navigate the local waterways and respond to any emergencies.
- Participants must wear personal flotation devices throughout the tour.
- The clear kayaks have a weight limit of 250 lbs per individual and 425 lbs combined for two paddlers.
Getting to the Meeting Point
To reach the meeting point for the Clear Kayak Ecotour, travelers can head to 101 W Miracle Strip Pkwy in Mary Esther, Florida. The location is near public transportation, making it accessible for those without personal vehicles. For those driving, ample parking is available at the meeting point.
Driving Directions | Public Transit Options | Estimated Travel Time |
---|---|---|
Take I-10 E/US-98 E to W Miracle Strip Pkwy | Bus Route 37 from Ft. Walton Beach | 10-15 minutes from Ft. Walton Beach |
Turn right onto W Miracle Strip Pkwy | Bus Route 42 from Destin | 20-25 minutes from Destin |
Destination will be on the right | Both routes have stops near the meeting point | Dependent on traffic and departure location |
Guests are advised to allow extra time, especially during peak season, due to potential traffic delays in the area.
Packing and Preparation Tips
When preparing for the Clear Kayak Ecotour, one should pack a few essential items. While the tour provider supplies the necessary kayaking equipment, there are a handful of personal items guests should bring along.
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, the following items are recommended:
- A reusable water bottle, as the tour operator doesn’t provide one.
- Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the Florida sun.
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing that can get wet, such as swimsuits or athletic wear.
Plus, guests should wear secure, water-friendly footwear like water shoes or sandals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Snorkel Gear?
No, guests must use the provided tandem kayaks and equipment. Bringing one’s own kayak or snorkel gear is not permitted. The tour company provides all necessary gear to ensure safety and consistency for the group experience.
Is There a Place to Store My Personal Belongings?
There’s limited storage space on the tour, but guests can leave personal belongings in the designated area at the meeting point. It’s recommended to bring only essentials and leave valuables at home or in a secure location.
Do the Guides Provide Any Snacks or Refreshments?
The tour guides do not provide any snacks or refreshments. However, guests are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottle, as it’s not included in the tour. The focus is on the kayaking experience and wildlife viewing.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Passengers are welcome to take photos during the tour. The clear kayaks provide excellent opportunities to capture scenic views and wildlife. However, guests should be mindful not to interfere with the experience or safety of the group.
What Should I Do if I Need to Use the Restroom During the Tour?
If nature calls during the tour, guests should inform their guide. The guide will direct them to the nearest restroom facility on land. Guests are encouraged to use the restroom before the tour to minimize disruptions.
Recap
The Clear Kayak Ecotour in Destin and Ft. Walton Beach offers an immersive and educational eco-adventure. Guests can observe diverse wildlife while paddling through stunning waterways in clear tandem kayaks. With small group sizes, trained guides, and provided safety equipment, the tour provides an unforgettable connection with nature in a breathtaking setting, making it a must-try activity for visitors of all experience levels.
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