The Chaz River and Springs Paddle Tour

First, we'll meet at the boat launch where you'll get checked in, visit the store to pay $5 parking fee and grab refreshments if needed, use the restroom, etc. Your experienced guide will assign you to quality and fitted paddleboard gear, go over safety, and give a land-lesson to any beginner paddlers (orienting you with your gear and teaching basic paddling technique). Then we'll launch the boards from the ramp and begin our tour. We'll paddle the lush river to an incredible, unique underwater formation called Seven Sisters Springs. Here, you'll discover your inner mermaid or aquaman and swim through shallow, flute-like tubes made of limestone. You can choose to swim through short sections, or go for longer ones when you’re comfortable. Once refreshed, we’ll paddle to another spring, bordered by red aquatic plants, that resembles an iris and is appropriately named The Eye. Then, we'll seek a hidden emerald spring called The Crack. Accessible only by paddle craft or flats boat, it's at the end of a narrow, winding creek, opening up to a green-blue pool surrounded by forest. It’s a place you’d imagine a siren would live, and you may just spot one! Other wildlife sightings include jumping mullet, swimming blue crab, a variety of birds, and the occasional manatee! We'll stop for a swim here, climb some trees, and eat our snacks. After we've had our fill, we'll paddle back to boat ramp.

Stand Up Paddle Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced - Instruction included. Must know how to swim. Kids 12 years old and under may ride along with a parent for free.

Paddle Distance: about 3mi with lots of stops along the way to rest or swim in the springs.

What's Included:

• All Stand Up Paddleboard Gear
• 4 hour Guided Eco-Tour
• 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
• Kayak Rental - please inquire

T ime: 8:15a Arrival to park, pay the $5 fee and use the restroom. The lot fills up fast so we recommend arriving on time or you may have to park further away and walk. 8:45a Meeting Time (ready to launch) - if you're bringing your own gear, allow yourself plenty of prep time, especially if you have inflatables. The park opens as early as 8a.

Parking: There is a parking lot at the boat ramp with a $5 parking fee. Follow signs to the boat ramp and park closest to it. If the lot is full, ask the parking lot attendant to direct you to overflow. Please arrive early to ensure parking in the lot. Payment for parking is at the store near the parking lot or sometimes with the golf cart attendant in the parking lot.

Meet: To the left of the kayak launch/boat ramp at the picnic table.

Bring: Water, towel, snacks or picnic lunch, dry bag, snorkel gear (mask/snorkel or goggles and neoprene wetsuit if you get cold in 72 degree water temp), dry change of clothes, $5 parking fee (and extra money if you wish to purchase any items at the convenience store). If you're bringing your own paddle craft, a life vest and whistle are required by law.

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

In the event of inclement weather (rain/lightening/high winds), you will be notified of a reschedule via email at least 3 hours prior to your scheduled paddle. We only reschedule so that your SUP experience will be the most safe and enjoyable one possible!

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 Central Florida and internationally on adventure travel retreats.

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

Host or Publisher Wave of Wellness