Discover the magic of bioluminescent plankton as you kayak through Merritt Island’s glowing waters at night, guided by Calypso Kayaking’s expert team.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Basic paddling skills recommended but not required, comfortable sitting for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
Merritt Island was designated as a national wildlife refuge in 1963, protecting one of Florida’s most diverse ecosystems.
Conservation
Calypso Kayaking emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal impact on the delicate bioluminescent habitats and surrounding wildlife.
Calypso Kayaking
Discover the magic of bioluminescent plankton as you kayak through Merritt Island’s glowing waters at night, guided by Calypso Kayaking’s expert team.
Calypso Kayaking is a Merritt Island, Florida outfitter offering guided kayak and paddleboard experiences on the Indian River Lagoon and surrounding waterways. The company specializes in a mix of guided wildlife tours, night bioluminescence paddles, equipment rentals, and private boat excursions that showcase the Space Coast ecosystem.
Tours include plankton and comb jellyfish bioluminescence paddles in clear kayaks, manatee and dolphin encounter tours, sunset-to-bioluminescent combo trips, and a private four-hour boat tour through mangrove tunnels and scenic shoreline.
Calypso Kayaking operates rentals at Manatee Cove Park with one-hour, two-hour, and full-day options for kayaks and paddleboards. Rentals allow guests to explore islands, search for shells, and watch for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and endangered manatees in their natural habitat.
Guided experiences are led by professional local guides who focus on safety, wildlife observation, and responsible paddling practices. Night tours emphasize low-impact viewing of bioluminescent plankton and comb jellyfish while using clear kayaks to increase visibility below the waterline.
The private boat tour offers a seated alternative for groups who prefer a powered vessel to access the same rivers, mangroves, and coastal views, with opportunities to observe wildlife and sunsets. Calypso Kayaking markets its variety of tours and rentals to visitors near Orlando, Cocoa Beach, and the broader Space Coast seeking memorable, nature-based experiences on Florida’s Indian River system.
Schedules include daytime, sunset, and night departures; rentals offer flexible start times. Safety briefings, life jackets, and basic paddling instruction are supplied to every guest prior to departure and during check-in routinely on site.
Location
Merritt Island, FL
Space Coast, Indian River Lagoon
Guided Tours
Available
Professional local guides
Tour Types
8 offerings
Bioluminescence, rentals, boat tours
Wildlife Encounters
Dolphins & Manatees
Observed in natural habitat
Reserve a guided bioluminescence paddle, manatee and dolphin encounter, rental, or private boat tour to experience Florida’s Indian River Lagoon.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes to stay comfortable during the paddle.
Bring a waterproof camera
Capture the dazzling bioluminescent display with a waterproof camera or phone case.
Dress warmly after sunset
Temperatures can drop at night, so bring layers to stay cozy post-tour.
Follow safety guidelines
Listen carefully to the safety briefing and follow the guide’s instructions for a safe trip.
Lightweight, quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry during the paddle.
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Waterproof camera or phone case
Allows capturing the stunning bioluminescent effects safely.
Layers for warmth
Additional clothing helps stay warm after sunset.
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Headlamp or waterproof flashlight
Ensures visibility when onshore or in case of emergency.
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