Do I need prior kayaking experience?

Basic kayaking skills and the ability to paddle for a few hours are recommended, but all skill levels are welcome, and guides provide instruction.

Is the Hammock Tree jump mandatory?

No, this optional activity is for thrill-seekers; you can opt out and still enjoy the full experience.

What is the minimum age for participants?

Participants should be at least 10 years old, able to follow safety instructions and paddle comfortably.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, all participants receive Coast Guard-approved life jackets during the trip for safety.

Can I bring my own kayak?

This is a guided tour with provided kayaks, so personal equipment is not required and not advisable.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours may be rescheduled or canceled due to severe weather for your safety; you'll be notified in advance if this occurs.

Peaceful Night Kayaking in Eustis, Florida | Kayak | Water Activities

Experience the calming beauty of Florida’s natural waterways with the Peaceful Nature Paddle through Cypresses & Moonlit Waters. This private 3-hour kayak adventure with Venture Outdoors takes you along Blackwater Creek and across Lake Norris, offering a unique perspective on the region’s iconic ancient cypress trees illuminated by moonlight. Glide silently through reflective waters, surrounded by the gentle sounds of nocturnal wildlife, while the starry sky provides a magical backdrop. Along the way, thrill-seekers can leap from the famous Hammock Tree, adding an exciting twist to this tranquil journey. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or a touch of adventure, this paddle strikes the perfect balance, ideal for couples, small groups, or solo explorers wanting to reconnect with nature after dark. Expert guides ensure a safe, memorable experience, sharing insights into the local ecosystem and stories about the area’s natural history. The intimate setting and limited group size enhance the feeling of immersion, making it an unforgettable night under Florida’s southern skies.

About Venture Outdoors

Venture Outdoors is an Orange City, Florida outfitter specializing in guided kayak tours and skills courses across Lake Norris, Blackwater Creek, Rock Springs Run, and Blue Spring State Park. The company offers a range of experiences—from short Discover Kayaking introductory sessions to multi-hour guided paddles including bioluminescence night tours, manatee viewing, sunset paddles, and an authorized Nature Escape through Seminole Forest.

Guides deliver focused instruction, safety briefings, and route knowledge for small-group excursions tailored to wildlife viewing and outdoor education. Key offerings include the Lake Norris Explorer with cypress swamps and osprey nesting, the Eco Kayak Adventure on the Emerald Cut through Rock Springs Run, and the Manatee Discovery Tour at Blue Spring State Park. Night paddles spotlight bioluminescent dinoflagellates and nocturnal wildlife, while the Kayak Paddle Strokes & Safety Primer teaches strokes, rescue techniques, and use of kayak equipment.

Venture Outdoors operates permit-authorized trips, including the only authorized kayak tour in Seminole Forest on Blackwater Creek, and prioritizes environmental stewardship by following local regulations and best practices for wildlife encounters. Small group sizes and expert-led instruction help maintain safety around manatees, dolphins, and alligators and support responsible observation.

Bookings accommodate different experience levels, from beginners seeking a safe Discover Kayaking introduction to experienced paddlers looking for specialized night or wildlife tours. Venture Outdoors’ combination of guided expertise, permitted access, and a clear emphasis on safety and habitat protection makes it a reliable choice for paddlers visiting Orange City and the surrounding waterways. Reservations are available year-round with advance booking.