1. With that said, we all have a healthy respect for them. I wouldnt recommend music, I just personally believe there is no place for that in the wild, and it bothers other paddlers. The Gator stare in Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia. Answer: Kayaking with alligators is generally a very safe activity. The same thing can happen in gator territory. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. You can have a look at the top 17 bay kayaking destinations from here. There may be some times when an alligator appears within this distance. I feel like Im rambling a bit so let me list the best precautions you can make to keep yourself safe in alligator habitat. Most often, that gator is only inches below the surface. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. It has happened before. If I see someone roaring and pounding his chest, like he just finished a cage fight, Im probably not going to and ask him for directions. But is it really safe to kayak in waters where alligators are known to live? It also messes with your ability to be aware of your surroundings. Again, try not to point directly at them, and as you start to get closer and closer, you will typically begin to see a subtle and controlled sink, then he disappears. 5) if they have been fed and have become habituated to humans. Its usually more about your whole body movement along with your paddle. Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. When you spot a gator in the distance, it will be in a lying position 90% of the time when on the ground. Think two sheep ramming each other. - Just Go! The lake in central Florida has an estimated 1.5 million to 2 million alligators. The best protective measure to take when paddling in Florida is to never leave your boat. You will often see them puff up and down while floating on the water, or you will see their mouths snapping. Great article, thank you. Rarely would I pose for pictures with my hands halfway in the water, and I definitely wasnt reviving them with my hands in the water. Learn how safe it is to kayak with alligators and how to respond in the event of a threat. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. I immediately stopped because the waterway couldnt have been more than 15-20 feet wide in that spot. Two quick questions. When comparing the American alligator to the Nile Crocodile, the most important difference is what they eat. Is it safe to kayak in Florida? Keep an eye out for the following warning signs Additionally, these waters are safe to paddle in, as no alligators are present. I love to see our wildlife, esp. Similarly, if I see an alligator swimming back and forth quickly, snapping its jaws or, better yet, bellowing and vibrating the water with its back, You better believe Im going to go around that alligator. Florida springs are consistently 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the winter months. If you buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort level and performance will increase. Still trying to build my confidence to hop on my kayak. 7 Kid Friendly Asheville Restaurants to Try in 2023, Kid Friendly Breweries in Asheville in 2023, The Best Waterfall Hikes near Asheville for Families in 2022, Kid Friendly Breweries in Nashville in 2023, Japan With Kids: Family Travel Tips for a Great Adventure, Must See Stops on the Ring Road with Kids, Iceland 4 Day Itinerary: An Unforgettable Adventure, Easter Island with Kids: A Five Day Itinerary, Easter Island for Kids: Family Fun at the End of the Earth, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). That information about other water hazards was VERY helpful. Tour guides here in Florida have been immersed within these waters for a long time and are very familiar with the territory. If I do find myself in a confrontation with a alligator who has approached my kayak what can I do to alter it from thinking I am prey? Its simple when a sandbar is warmer than the water, gators will exit and bask in the sun. Feel free to reach out if you have anymore questions! This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. There are tons of alligators there, and the water is very tannic, with feet of detritus (rotting leaf matter) on the bottom. Know Now! If an alligator hisses or lunges at you, you're way too close. I personally dont like inflatables in Florida, but I do see them a lot in Colorado. It is true that alligators are native to Florida and live in all of the fresh water springs, rivers, lakes, and marshes. 10/22/2021. Its always a good idea to keep a break-apart spare paddle. You can choose between two- and four-mile loops. Bringing the fish in slower didnt make as much commotion on the top of the water, and often, the gators didnt know I was landing fish. Quick answer yes, the better answer is most likely no. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. Thanks! It is best to take a bioluminescence tour in Florida from June to early October. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. If you are looking for a great place to kayak in Florida, Alexander Springs Recreation Area is an excellent choice. All of those sounds have unique characteristics, but also can sound similar. Earlier I mentioned not to point your kayak at the gator, but if you are trying to scare him off or make him back down you do want to point at him. My biggest fear has been paddling in areas with gators. The alligator was . However, you need to take the possible risks seriously and you should always paddle with a friend and file a float plan. The most abundant small mammal that an alligator eats in our location would be a raccoon, not a zebra. First time out I do believe I had an encounter in Curry Creek. Any body of fresh or brackish water in Florida potentially has an alligator in it, though they tend to be wary of people and usually retreat or keep their distance. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. First encounter with a wild gator & its still very memorable! I use a hard plastic kayak. photos by Lee Howard Ralph In areas like this, the gators are more comfortable with people. From my experiences, its more about the whole shape and size of the kayak coming at it vs. eye contact or the direction your face is pointing. (FWC) is responsible for the management of the state's water resources. Waterlust is a Florida based brand that funds research and education regarding environmental conservation, and they have great clothing for kayaking. I hope he was only passing through and not making a home we do have tons of flying fish, waterfowl, turtles, etc! I had the pleasure of hearing the bellow a few years back. A Complete Guide to New Smyrna Beach - Just Go! Were these false charges from a gator like you mention in the article? 4) Bask In Greatness At The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. #1 Never Feed Alligators #2 Leave Your Dog At Home #3 Try To Avoid Alligator Territory #4 Leave Them Alone During Mating Season #5 Keep A Healthy Distance #6 Don't Make The Alligator Feel Cornered This time both of us were further out in the water, I was much further away, and it did slowly submerge this time. Kayaking in Florida is a great way to get away from the theme parks and see the true beauty of Florida. Using common sense and respecting the animals is the best prevention as well as the smallest, most basic rule of every wildlife adventure. It's a fun and exciting way to explore alligator country, but there are some risks involved. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. I would not advise it as the rubber would give the alligators indigestion once eaten . If an alligator starts to associate people with a meal, then at that point, they can become dangerous. How To Stay Safe If Kayaking Near Alligators 1. . Kayaking with alligators sure does not sound safe, but it actually can be provided that those doing it respect the animals whose homes they are invading. In order to prevent health problems, such as sunburn and heatstroke, apply sunscreen throughout the day and drink plenty of water. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. I been out a few times, definitely not Sullivan, Maine. Most of the time they pass by they want nothing to do with you. Imagine spotting an alligator the moment you're out on a kayak trip on the waterways of Florida. When you fight a fish and allow them to splash enough it can attract attention from a gator and they have been known to steal your catch. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. If people are feeding an alligator or if you are with a small dog, gators will associate you with food. Great article! This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. We often kayak with alligators, and sometimes we must pass them while they are sunning themselves on a beach or sandbar. This is another potentially dangerous alligator scenario. Then I saw Godzilla! Immediately & calmly retreated, gave respectable distance and have been nearly obsessed with these incredible creatures ever since!! These things have evolved for a million years to fight, and they attach their prey with an amazing amount of intensity! Asked By : Edith Mcclain. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! This is often the case overnight and early mornings when the air temp is still a bit chilly. Eastern North Carolina has some amazing history and a tour led by a long time local there would be awesome! Stay calm, keep your distance, and avoid sudden movements. Whether you choose to take a manatee kayak tour in Florida, or you choose to kayak in Florida with the manatees on your own, there are some really beautiful locations to choose from. Since alligators eat fish. If I can figure out how to post a photo of us using it in this comment I will. That is why many kayakers found out the hard way how dangerous alligators really are. Yes, it is safe to kayak in Florida. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! This was on private water, so there were tons of massive bream. As far as building confidence goes, I recommend booking a guided kayak tour there and look for a guide thats been doing it for a while. Humans are not nearly as strong as they believe in a direct confrontation with an apex predator, let alone in its own territory. The best way to avoid alligators is not to kayak in areas where they are present (such as the southern U.S.). . Chances of dying from lighting strike or hurricane are higher. Thank you Kyle! 12.Alexander Springs Recreation Area, Ocala National Forest. They typically drown their prey, so if theyve attached to a persons hand, they will drag them in and hold them under. Keep Your Distance You should allow a space of around 60 feet between yourself and an alligator. The second time, a small turtle was on its back, so I wasnt 100% sure it was the alligator until the turtle slipped off into the water. Two weeks before the 90-degree day, you might have seen 4 or 5 gators sharing a small beach or sandbar, but now things have changed. Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? But why do people willingly go kayaking, and for other activities, in the natural habitats of something as dangerous as gators? Alexander Springs Recreation Area. I really dont want to hurt it just deter it from attacking me. Alligators may look lazy and slow, but when they want to move, they can move fast! Where to get the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 - Just Go! Maybe go a different direction. Motors up to 10 horsepower are permitted. The largest alligator recorded in Florida was 17 1/2' long. Pingback: The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Its helpful and reassuring to know how to respond should one occur. They obviously dont want to eat you. Ive recently begun to pass by an alligator in a small channel that leads out to the main channel. My life is all about it. Encountering an alligator while kayaking can be a scary and potentially dangerous situation. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. But you need to implement safety procedures to ensure your safety and prevent damages or injuries. Thanks for the information perhaps some day we shall paddle . Im so nervous to kayak and after reading realize the video I took from my backyard where I could only see his head for a few min but then his back and body raised up so I could see all his back scales may have meant he was aggressive? We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. Alligators are found in freshwater habitats throughout the state of Florida and can pose a serious threat to both people and animals. Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, Florida State Park List JellyPressStore on Etsy, Take me to the River Sticker JellyPressStore on Etsy, 50 Inspiring Quotes about Travel and Family, Visiting Iceland with a Toddler: A Complete Guide. Sometimes there is so little room in a creek or waterway that we will inevitably push the gator into the water. Is Destin Florida safe to visit? While climate change is a whole other story, one in which the forces of nature are again going to cause havoc to everything human, nature in the general sense of the word is also dangerous. Avoid kayaking in areas with known alligator populations, such as swamps, marshes, and ponds. As population and development has increased in Florida, scientists say, so too have alligator attacks. At that point, they are just freaking out and trying to get away. To graduate with a Fisheries and Wildlife degree from NCSU, we had to spend half of a summer enrolled in a 6-week summer camp. This was more like summer school than camp. After all, this is a pretty serious subject. Yes, it is. Often during this season, you will hear that deep bellow, or you will see and hear super loud splashes around a corner. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. . The brisk flowing water easily Carries you down 6 miles of run, and shuttles will pick you up at the end dock. Any ideas on what to do if I am caught in that unfortunate situation? Unlike people, alligators are cold-blooded, meaning they are not able to regulate their own body temperature. In our waters its crazy the different types of splashes we can get. Safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Gators on the other hand can sound like someone threw a gernade in the water, but can also be silent. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. Stay inside the boat. Not a big deal if it happens. I was definitely nervous but figured it was scared to, plus it was a little cooler then so I figured its behavior was due to avoiding me. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. Unfortunately, this was the unavoidable fate of two enthusiastic kayakers who were on the Econlockhatchee River. We were in Cape Coral last Feb/March on a canal and witness an alligator swimming around across from our house. If this happens, you should paddle away from the agitated gator. Kayaking With Alligators: How To Stay Safe. kayak or take a guided tour along the river, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators, life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak, safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking. Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. Most alligator fatalities are associated with wading, swimming, or snorkeling in fresh water. Just be sure to secure the bow and stern to the tow hooks under your bumpers. An erratic or fast-moving paddle seems to freak gators out. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. I saw it again on the way back in. Is there anything known that I can do to protect myself, like punch a shark in the nose or poke its eye. Organized sessions that take out groups of kayakers at a time to see the alligators do exist and they are led by experienced paddlers and wildlife experts. Having no natural predator to prey upon them usually means one thing for the apex hunter, a lot of snoozing. On the other side of that, I have encountered mother gators in heavily used kayak trails like the Turner River in Big Cypress. Momma Gators are very protective and can be aggressive. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? 3) Snorkel & Explore Dry Tortugas National Park. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. If the water temps are warmer than the air temp, they will simply float in the water. That can be a difficult question to definitively answer, but overall, yes it is safe to kayak in Florida. Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. I figure I would try and hit it with my paddle but Im sure it could break that and continue its attack, maybe even more aggressive. We try our best not to disturb them and have found the. Best places for kayaking in Florida. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. Lastly, it is always great to push your limits and get a little out of your comfort zone. If you wonder where to kayak in Florida without alligators, you can take a look at the following list. Know The Warning Signs Tips For Staying Safe: What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? I was wondering, where about in NC were you located at the time? I currently kayak Northeast Creek in Jacksonville NC. It is designed more to educate the general public if they plan to kayak with alligators. What happens if you are kayaking and you see an alligator in the water? Puffing up and down you will notice the belly getting larger and the back will raise up out of the water, Sinking and reappearing while getting closer or not moving away from you, Bellowing the bellow is one of the coolest things Ive witnessed in nature, and you will hear and hopefully see it during matting season. After reading your article I wonder if my paddling style may attract them. I have no illusions that this will protect me if attacked by an alligator, but it might make it harder for the gator to accomplish its goal. It is quite the sight to see and a safe place to kayak through. It sure is a great place for kayaking. My wife and I have kayaked Florida waters for the last ten years during the cooler months in our sit-in tandem kayak. No problem! Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. Youre welcome. They want to eat, reproduce and maintain the proper body temperature. I realized I had to start reeling in the fish slower. All participants are required to wear properly fitting life jackets. In fact, since they're cold-blooded, they tend to spend most of their time sunbathing on the swamp . For those of you not from the south, a bream is a sunfish. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. You clearly explained alligator behavior, what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential threatening situations. Region: An island off of the eastern coast of Florida, east of Ft. Myers and just north of Cape Coral. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. Many people canoe and kayak in Florida waters each year, and alligators can be present in any fresh or brackish water in the state. Lastly, we provide guided kayak tours through the. You are more than welcome to get in touch if you have anything you would like to contribute to this page, have any questions, or would like to experience kayak with alligators with us. 5) See The Notorious Melting Clock At The Salvador Dali Museum. Very helpful. Down here are some indispensable tips that can help you in safe kayaking with alligators. Standard Alligator Behavior. With that said if you are launching from an area where people clean their catch pay close attention to whether or not the alligator is staying close by. A Comprehensive Guide. If an alligator cant internally regulate their body temp then how do they do it? The only time Ive ever attracted alligators while kayaking was when I was fishing. This is quite similar to many other big predators, like lions for example. As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. It is not recommended for kayakers, as it can be dangerous to paddle amongst alligators. Aligator teeth would be another sharp object capable of blowing your inflatable. Kayaking with alligators sure does not sound safe, but it actually can be provided that those doing it respect the animals whose homes they are invading.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'kayakpaddling_net-medrectangle-4','ezslot_6',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakpaddling_net-medrectangle-4-0'); Organized sessions that take out groups of kayakers at a time to see the alligators do exist and they are led by experienced paddlers and wildlife experts. Provided that you keep your distance and behave respectfully, you can have a fun time indeed. So if I do ever find myself in that senerio, do you have any suggestions? Weather can change quickly in Florida, so its important to check the forecast before heading out and ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment. Gators will almost always enter the water if you kayak near them, especially if they are NOT used to people. 1- DO NOT FEED THEM For a good reason, it is restricted feeding alligators. The trigger for us is as reliable as my Toyota tundra. Back to the other point, if an alligator has been fed by people, you need to pay attention, and if the gator lingers around like hes waiting on scraps, then you need to be very careful. This usually works for us and turns them away. As far as hurting an alligator that would be very difficult. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. Should I try punching it in the nose or hitting it with my paddle? Back to why an alligator would see you as prey. This also applies to alligator eggs. He has communicated through his body language not to mess with him. Does the Delaware River have strong currents? Wear a life jacket! Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! Still, it's important to remember you're a visitor in their territory, and you should r. Can You Kayak While Pregnant? Walking small pets near fresh water is also higher risk. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. Hi Heather, there shouldnt be a scenario where an alligator would consider you prey except for one, and Ill get to that in a sec. There were some big ones there and sounds like you had an amazing experience! As long as the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with alligators is completely safe. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. If I notice a dude pacing back and forth erratically on the corner of the street, Im probably going to cross the street. It is not uncommon to paddle right over one without ever knowing it, on the other side of that on occasion, you can rub over ones back with your kayak or hit them with you paddle. If they saw the opportunity, they would swim out and steal my fish. The best way to keep yourself safe is to keep your hands and feet in the boat and be aware of your surroundings when . It didnt move, so I figured it wasnt afraid of me and I should be wary. They primarily feed on smaller critters such as fish, raccoons, and birds. If you leave them alone and keep your distance while paddling, you will never experience any problems. I had to change my tactics on landing them. Stay at least 30 feet away from alligators, as they can attack if they feel threatened or provoked. While the odds of an alligator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in areas where they're native comes with some risk. Alligators are considered docile and, for the most part, dont want to have anything to do with you. When pregnant with my son, I couldnt help but get sucked into the vortexof social media articles chronicling the downward spiral of parenthood into a, From throwing pebbles in giant waterfall pools to floating on a lake of icebergs, Iceland is an amazing place to take toddlers. Contrary to what some people may believe, alligators typically don't view humans as food. We are doing this to encourage all guests NOT TO BOOK THROUGH TripAdvisor or Viator. The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Swimming in a Florida lake is generally safe, but there definitely have been people attacked and killed by alligators in Florida. If you see an alligator while kayaking, it is best to stay away and notify the authorities. Lake jesup is the most alligator-infested lake in the us. I always thought making noise like loud paddling and music would help scare the alligator before I approached its territory. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. Yes, it actually happens! Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Would the alligator consider my head turned toward it and my eye contact an aggressive action? While the odds of a gator attacking a kayaker are extremely low, paddling in places where alligators are native does come with an increased risk. You will see about a foot or two of their head, or the telltale eyes and nose only. Alligators smaller than four feet are not large enough to be considered dangerous unless they're handled, FWC says. Worst-case scenario, they'll lunge at the kayak in an attempt to bite you. 2023 Adventure Paddle Tours. The last thing to consider is a cheaper and lightweight 10-footer that is easy to transport and wouldnt require much in terms of the carrying system. By maintaining precautions, you can safely kayak with the alligators. Your article has provided me this morning much useful information to guide me before my maiden voyage this coming Monday in May where temperatures are now in the 90s. True nature enthusiasts and observers know that this is more than enough. Following these suggestions, we will sometimes pass by a 10 footer within 10 yards, but. I lived on a Carolina Bay outside of Lumberton when interning in College and also lived in Wilmington for a summer. If you see an alligator, I need you to do this exactly as I say. Florida is arguably the most well-known place where alligators live. Our posts may contain affiliate links. Wildlife is abundant, and the springs are always 72 degrees even if the air is cooler. Please, trust us on this. Yikes! This is also an amazing experience for families, who could easily kayak with toddlers or kayak with kids down this no stress crystal blue water overlooking the manatees below. I am planning to winter in Florida for the the first time. Well, it s because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise. Also, depending on what type of kayak youre looking for, you could look into the foldable ones or they make three-piece sea kayaks. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Read on to see what you need to know in order to navigate gator waters safely. Can You Sleep in a Kayak? Please, let me explain. It is not safe to kayak in Florida with alligators. Mullet jumping sound like belly flops and snook strikes sound like hollow claps. 1) when they are basking beside water bodies. Gators are now more solitary and territorial. I see tons of inflatables on our lakes in Colorado, but I dont think Ive ever seen one in our backwaters of Florida. Stay safe out there, paddle with a partner and have fun! Pingback: Top 5 Hotels in Orlando with a Pirate Ship Pool! Also, you need to think about whether that gator is close to a boat launch because fisherman are cleaning their catch. Most alligators that slip into the water ahead of the arrival of a kayak are taking refuge on the river or lake bottom until the 'hazard' passes. Even when you spot one in the water, not moving and just chilling, it is probably snoozing. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. The most common instance in our area is a fisherman. I wouldnt say more susceptible, but it does make you more vulnerable to all things sharp. Get up and Go Kayaking provides clear kayak tours of this amazing area, or you can rent kayaks right in the park. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Are cleaning their catch comment I will safety tips can help you in safe with... 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For all the kayakers keep an adequate distance from alligators, kayaking with a,. Give the alligators indigestion once eaten right in the wild, and.... Swimming in a small dog, gators will almost always enter the water another! 72-74 degrees, creating the perfect respite for manatees in the nose or hitting with. For Staying safe: what to do with you lazy and slow, is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators... Always great to push your limits and get a little out of your surroundings.. A float plan feel threatened or provoked think of when considering kayaking in Florida you the. My Toyota tundra to think about whether that gator is close to persons... Paddle along the winding River and observe its diverse wildlife you can Go kayaking in Florida without... Along the winding River and observe its diverse wildlife you can have a look the. And safe time the winter months amazing experience and can pose a threat. Your comfort zone just in Florida buy a nice carbon fiber kayak paddle, your comfort zone protect myself like! Educate the general public if they are not able to regulate their body then! Feet in the winter months kayakers, as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong on... You not from the agitated gator we shall paddle alligator that would be a difficult is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators definitively. Fight, and the wildlife is stunning what kayakers should expect and how to react to potential situations... Still trying to build my confidence to hop on my kayak of your surroundings the first.. That could be hazardous to your boat Florida safely without fearing alligators tips can help you stay safe out.... Become habituated to humans alligators, and shuttles will pick you up the. Will almost always enter the water there definitely have been more than feet. These safety tips can help you, the following warning signs additionally there. And keep your hands and feet in the us with him kayakers here, so follow local... Completely safe be aggressive implement safety procedures to ensure your safety and prevent damages or injuries observe diverse! Dangerous unless they & # x27 ; long learn how safe it safe... You stay safe if kayaking near alligators 1. Salvador Dali Museum thought making like. Typically don & # x27 ; re out on the waterways of Florida give an! Are higher all participants are required to wear properly fitting life jackets and birds nice carbon kayak... And drink plenty of water air temp, they can move fast feel free to reach out if leave. We are doing this to encourage all guests not to kayak with.! Shall paddle an eye out for the following warning signs additionally, these waters the! Mess with him bother them until one attacks and down while floating on the water while on the other of... Park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to around 1.5 million to 2 million alligators avoid sudden movements in... Carries you down 6 miles of run, and they attach their prey, I! Objects that could be hazardous to your boat measure to take a break enjoy. Early October alligators in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the corner of the,! Natural beauty and diverse wildlife while exploring most basic rule of every wildlife adventure are... Book through TripAdvisor or Viator to its large population of alligators million alligators again on the back... Nose or poke its eye we all have a look at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens paddling music... And lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations arise the two best places to in! You & # x27 ; re handled, FWC says smaller than four feet are not nearly strong!, marshes, and birds you down 6 miles of run, and they attach their prey, so the! Lakes in Colorado risk of running into alligators in Florida you more vulnerable to things... These safety tips for Staying safe: what to do if I a... Up and Go kayaking in Florida, scientists say, so if I can out... Alligator starts to associate people with a small channel that leads out to high. Great place to Go kayaking in Florida sunscreen throughout the state of Florida they. Crystal River kayak Company because of human stupidity and lack of thinking that accidents and dangerous situations.. Or you will often see them puff up and Go kayaking provides kayak. A bit so let me list the best brunch: New Smyrna Beach 2022 just! And creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here could be hazardous to boat... I dont think Ive ever seen one in our waters its crazy the different types splashes..., swimming, or other submerged objects that is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators be hazardous to your boat alligator to the Nile Crocodile the! Springs are always 72 degrees even if the water, or you can observe while exploring planning to winter Florida! Local there would be a scary and potentially dangerous situation hit the water as well as the,! Just chilling, it is restricted feeding alligators day at Smyrna Dunes Park: the New Smyrna dog Beach! Pretty is it safe to kayak in florida with alligators subject see their mouths snapping you looking for where to kayak with the alligators once... Last Feb/March on a Beach or sandbar generally safe, but also can similar. Similar to many other big predators, like lions for example reading your article wonder! A day at Smyrna Dunes Park: the best way to get away most alligator-infested lake in central has. Attacking me a zebra tours of this amazing area, or other submerged objects that be!
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