Nighttime Bioluminescence Paddles with Community Boating Center
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed to paddle steadily and maintain balance; suitable for ages 10 and up.
Overview
Witness the glowing waters of Bellingham Bay during a nighttime paddle with Community Boating Center. Suitable for all skill levels, this trip reveals the rare magic of bioluminescent plankton beneath the stars.
Bioluminescence Paddles
3 hours | Ages 10 and up | No experience necessary!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a mesmerizing nighttime paddle in Bellingham Bay to witness the enchanting glow of bioluminescence! Perfect for all skill levels, this unique experience allows you to explore the magic of glowing plankton while enjoying expert guidance. Create unforgettable memories as you navigate the shimmering waters under the stars.
Experience the magic of Bioluminescence in Bellingham Bay!
Duration: 3 hours
Join us on this nighttime paddle to witness the display of this enchanting light. We will take you to some of the best places in the region to see their glow! This trip is great for beginning and experienced paddlers alike.
The bioluminescence phenomenon is created by planktonic organisms that are active from June to September in our coastal marine habitats. Our guides will explain why they glow and why our destination of this tour offers such a uniquely incredible viewing opportunity!
You may request a sit on top kayak or rowboat to better accommodate children or to offer a more comfortable platform for folks with mobility or balance concerns. Don’t hesitate to ask us what boat may suit you best.
Safety is our number one priority, running this tour at night requires experienced guides, good weather conditions and mindful participants. We will cancel and refund or reschedule the tour if the conditions are not safe. Usually we can anticipate conditions about 48 hours in advance but sometimes the conditions change just hours beforehand.
Experience is not necessary, but be ready to be out on the water most of the time!
Ages 10+ : When bringing kids on this tour please make sure you have at least a 1:1 adult to child ratio for kids that are unable to paddle on their own or if they are unable to responsibly share a boat with an adult partner. For kids under the age of 10, consider setting up a private Bioluminescence paddle to accommodate your family.
Prerequisites: None! We will provide and teach you everything you’ll need.
Next Step: Essentials of Sea Kayaking or Coastal Explorer Tour
All skill levels welcome! We use tandem sea kayaks for optimal stability so if you come with friends, choose your partner wisely! (Friends not required)
We do not want cost to be a barrier from participation, our scholarship program can be found here.
Adventure Tips
Bring a waterproof headlamp
A dim, red-light headlamp helps with visibility without disrupting the bioluminescence effect.
Dress in layers
Nighttime temperatures on the water can drop quickly, so moisture-wicking base layers and windproof outerwear are key.
Arrive well before sunset
Check in early for briefing and equipment fitting before paddling into the darkness.
Keep noise to a minimum
Quiet paddling enhances the natural ambiance and reduces disturbance to wildlife.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals
- Great blue herons
History
Bellingham Bay has long been a hub for indigenous Coast Salish communities before becoming a center for maritime trade and recreation.
Conservation
The Community Boating Center promotes low-impact boating practices and educates visitors on protecting the fragile marine ecosystems that support bioluminescent plankton.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bellingham
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof headlamp with red light
Allows you to navigate safely without diminishing the glowing plankton's effect.
summer specific
Moisture-wicking base layers
Keeps you dry and warm during the cool night paddle.
all specific
Windproof jacket
Protects against chilly breezes offshore.
spring|summer|fall specific
Dry bag
Keeps essentials like phone and snacks dry during the paddle.
all specific