Silver Springs Paddle Tour

Mammoth Spring, appropriately named as the largest spring in America and where wooly mammoths once roamed, has been drawing people in since the 1800s. It became a trading center, then a tourist attraction, then a movie set for dozens of Hollywood films - leaving traces of their sets sunk beneath the clear water or jumping from tree to tree. Yes, rhesus monkeys now live wild in the park - and what a unique sight to see them swinging in the Florida jungle!

During winter, manatees migrate to the warmer spring water and we get to paddle with them! Watch as they swim and roll in the many blue pools with such clarity, you can even make out their fingernails (yes they have them!). Plus, sea cows love paddleboarders and often come over and curiously nose the boards or rub their bodies along them - it's an up-close, spiritual encounter like no other!

We'll meet in the parking lot where your instructor will assign you to quality and fitted stand up paddleboard/kayak gear and give a 10 min safety and paddling technique briefing on land. Then we'll launch into the crystal clear Silver River, amongst a variety of wildlife above and below the surface - birds, fish, turtles, gators and lush plant life. We'll take our time, exploring each cove and spring, hunting the many ship wrecks and seeking our manatee friends. Making our way into the narrower paddle trail only accessible to paddle craft, we'll see the replica of the Pioneer "Cracker" Village, paddle around small islands, and hopefully spot the famous tribe of monkeys!

Upon returning with our souls overflowing, guests may stay in the park and independently hike the many trails or visit Pioneer Village on foot.

Paddle Skill Level: All Levels. Instruction provided for beginners. Must know how to swim.

Age: 13+. Kids 12 and under may ride along for free with an experienced parent/guardian.

Paddle Distance: about 1.5-2mi - taking our time with breaks along the way

What's Included:

• 3-hour Guided Tour by Certified, Experienced Instructor
• All Stand Up Paddleboard Gear
• Launch and Park Admission Fees
• SUP Instruction
• Trip Photos
• Paddle Tribe

Other Ticket Options Include:

• BYOBoard/Paddle Craft - bring all of your own paddle craft gear for a discounted rate

Time: PLEASE BE ON TIME SO THE GROUP DOES NOT HAVE TO WAIT FOR YOU: Meet at 10a for a launch time of 10:15a - please arrive with enough time to unload and prep your own gear, especially if you're bringing your own paddle craft or inflating any paddleboards. You may arrive as early as 8a when the park opens.

Parking: park at the south end of the lot, closest to the paddle launch - follow signs for "paddle adventures." We'll meet on the lawn at the paddle craft staging area before you reach the kayak rental shack.

Bring: Water, towel, dry bag, snacks, snorkel mask (for viewing underwater treasures - by peering over the side of your board), and cash (if you want to use the public restroom and/or purchase any items at the park's concession), dry change of clothes. Alcohol is not permitted in the state park. If you're bringing your own paddle craft, a life vest and whistle are required by law.

Wear: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (with straps), wear layers and something that is easy to move in and can get wet (like dry wicking workout clothes or swimwear).

Guide: Jessica Cichra is a SUP enthusiast that has been actively paddle touring, racing, surfing, and instructing since 2009. She is the founder of Wave of Wellness, a company with a mission to empower clients through adventurous activities that enhance all areas of well-being with a focus on travel, SUP, yoga, and community. Jessica guides paddle tours in the greater Orlando area and internationally on adventure travel retreats. She is also an industry representative as a sponsored ambassador/athlete for Werner Paddles and Local Honey Designs.

Tips are highly appreciated if you believe your instruction, service, and experience to be exceptional!

IMPORTANT: In the event of inclement weather, you will be notified via Eventbrite email at least 3 hours prior to start time of a reschedule. We only reschedule so your experience will be safe and enjoyable.

*Because we can’t control nature, manatee and monkey encounters are not guaranteed. This is definitely a place they frequent and if we’re lucky we will paddle with them!

Host or Publisher Wave of Wellness