LED Bio Comb Jelly Clear Bottom Kayak or Paddleboard Tour!

Picture paddling through calm waters under a starry sky, your boat or board glowing softly as you glide past shadowy outlines of wildlife. For those seeking a uniquely luminous experience, this nighttime kayak or paddleboard tour in Merritt Island offers exactly that—an opportunity to see the water come alive with bioluminescence, all for just $60 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides like Dustin and Tom, this tour lasts about an hour and a half and is designed for small groups—up to 12 travelers—making it intimate and personal.

What really makes this experience special are the LED lights under the clear-bottom boats or paddleboards, which you can personalize with different colors, creating a mesmerizing view of the water beneath you. Plus, depending on the season, you might spot glowing comb jellies (a type of glowing jellyfish) or bioluminescent plankton, offering a rare glimpse into the hidden life of Merritt Island’s waters.

A couple of considerations to keep in mind: this tour is weather-dependent, so poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. Also, it requires a moderate level of physical fitness, since paddling in the dark adds an extra element of challenge and fun. This experience is perfect for travelers who love water, nature, and a little bit of adventure—especially those intrigued by the magic of bioluminescence and the chance to see wildlife in a different light.

Key Points

• Unique Nighttime Experience: Kayaking or paddleboarding in Merritt Island with LED illumination offers a magical view of wildlife and bioluminescence at night.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized guidance and a more intimate experience.
• Seasonal Highlights: Possible sightings include glowing comb jellies (October to April) and bioluminescent plankton (June to October), depending on conditions.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Dustin, Chris, Tom, and Noah are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling, greatly enhancing the experience.
• Inclusive Equipment: Clear-bottom kayaks and paddleboards, with adjustable LED lights and dry bags included, make for a comfortable and practical outing.
• Weather and Fitness Considerations: The tour depends on good weather and requires moderate physical fitness, but offers a safe, manageable adventure for most.

An In-Depth Look at the Merritt Island Bioluminescent Kayak or Paddleboard Tour

Setting the Scene: Merritt Island’s Nighttime Magic

This tour takes place at Kiwanis Island Park in Merritt Island, a spot well known for its tranquil waters and proximity to diverse wildlife. As the sun dips behind the horizon, you’ll gather with your small group and prepare for an adventure that’s both visually stunning and educational.

The highlight here is the LED lighting system built into the boats and boards. You can even change the colors of the lights to see what effect they have on the water and creatures beneath. This feature adds a playful, customizable element to the experience, and many reviews praise how “neat” and “fun” the LED illuminated ride is, especially for teenagers and young adults.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The actual tour is brief—around 1 hour 30 minutes—making it a perfect evening activity, especially if you’re after a relaxed yet awe-inspiring outing.

• Start at Kiwanis Island Park: Here, guides will outfit you with your paddleboard or kayak, dry bags for your belongings, and your LED lights. After a quick safety briefing and paddle instruction, you’ll set off into the waters.

• Glowing Waters and Wildlife: As you paddle, keep an eye out for the possibility of bioluminescent creatures. During October through April, glowing comb jellies — resembling tiny, luminous jellyfish — are more common. In other months, you might spot bioluminescent dinoflagellates, which make the water sparkle with every stroke. Several reviews mention seeing more comb jellies than you could imagine, which adds an almost otherworldly feel to your night on the water.

• Personalized Lighting: Changing your LED lights can create an enchanted scene beneath you, transforming the water into a canvas of shifting colors. Guides like Dustin and Tom are appreciated for their knowledge and storytelling, which add depth to the visual spectacle and help you understand what you’re seeing.

• Wildlife Viewing: While the primary focus is the bioluminescence, you may also glimpse other wildlife—dolphins, manatees, or a variety of bird species—though sightings depend on the season and luck.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers emphasize how “professional” and “knowledgeable” the guides are, making the tour both fun and educational. One reviewer raved about Dustin, describing him as “awesome” and “educational”, which shows the value of guides who are passionate and well-informed.

Another guest highlighted Tom, calling him “fantastic” and noting that he enhanced the experience with personal stories and a friendly attitude. These guides don’t just paddle you around—they help you understand the environment, making each trip richer.

The Equipment and Comfort

All necessary gear—paddleboards, paddles, dry bags, and LED controllers—are included, which means you just need to bring your sense of adventure. The dry bags are handy for storing personal items, and the equipment is suited for a range of sizes (up to 410 pounds for kayaks and 300 pounds for paddleboards).

While the experience is generally smooth, keep in mind the physical aspect—paddling in the dark requires moderate fitness, and some may find it a little more challenging than daytime paddling. However, many reviews mention that “not too difficult” and “fun” are apt descriptions, even for teens.

Price and Value

At $60, this tour offers excellent value considering the unique experience, expert guides, and all equipment. It’s a relatively short outing, but the spectacle of glowing waters and wildlife makes it memorable. Plus, the small group size ensures personal attention, making it well worth the price for those who love nature and a bit of nighttime adventure.

Practical Details

• Booking in advance is recommended; most bookings are made about a week in advance.
• The tour operates weather permitting, and cancellations are free if poor weather cancels the trip.
• It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness and is friendly for service animals.
• The tour begins at 951 Kiwanis Island Park Rd and ends there, simplifying logistics.
• Bottled water isn’t included, so consider bringing your own.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys being on the water after dark, appreciates wildlife, and loves a little glow-in-the-dark fun, this tour is hard to beat. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge turn a simple paddle into a captivating jaunt into Merritt Island’s nocturnal world. It’s particularly appealing for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a serene, slightly mystical experience.

Keep in mind, if you’re looking for a long or intense adventure, this isn’t the tour for you. It’s a gentle, focused experience designed for those who want to see the night shine in a different way—quite literally. Weather conditions can influence the experience, so it’s best to book with some flexibility and a bit of patience.

Who should consider this tour?

• Wildlife enthusiasts curious about bioluminescence and marine creatures
• Families or couples looking for a memorable, gentle evening activity
• Travelers who enjoy small-group experiences with expert guides
• Anyone willing to paddle in the dark and embrace a little adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive a paddleboard or kayak, paddles, dry bags, and LED lighting that you can customize in different colors.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect evening activity.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While the description mentions moderate physical fitness, most travelers comfortable on water should find it manageable. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What are the best months for bioluminescent sightings?
Glow-in-the-dark comb jellies are most commonly seen from October to April, while bioluminescent dinoflagellates are more common June through October.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bottled water isn’t included, so bring your own if needed. Dress appropriately for the weather and consider layers as nights can be cool.

What happens if the weather cancels the trip?
Cancellations due to poor weather are free, and you can reschedule or get a full refund.

This tour offers a genuinely different perspective on Merritt Island’s natural beauty. Combining expert guides, interactive LED lighting, and the wonder of bioluminescence, it’s a memorable outing that turns ordinary water into a glowing, living canvas—perfect for curious travelers and nature lovers alike.