KAYAK THE BIOLUMINESCENT BAY
KAYAK THE BIOLUMINESCENT BAY
ShoreTrips says...
The phenomenon of the mysterious blue-green light is created by micro-organisms that thrive in an environment uniquely suited to their needs. A trip into the bay on a balmy night is a magical experience. Fish flash by in dark water, and a swim is like floating through stardust.
Don't wait! This popular experience is licensed by the government with daily limits!
Picture this. It’s a warm, tropical night. You’re entering a quiet Caribbean lagoon. You dip your kayak paddle into the calm water. The paddle makes a swirl and the water literally lights up--a soft, intense blue enhanced by the blue of the lagoon and the deepening blue of the night sky.
You have just entered Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bay (shortened to “Bio Bay” by the locals), Laguna Grande in Fajardo.
The beautiful luminescence in the calm bay’s waters is caused by millions and millions of dinoflagellates, a very, very tiny form of marine life that has characteristics of both plants and animals. They range from about 5 to 2,000 micrometers (0.0002 to 0.08 of an inch) in size and actually light up--in a shimmering, phosphorescent blue--when they're disturbed by movement.
After a brief introduction to kayaking and a few on-the-job strokes, you and your two-person kayak will slip quietly into Laguna Grande for what promises to be one of the neatest adventures of this or any other cruise.
This Bio Bay kayaking extravaganza includes bi-lingual CPR- and First Aid-trained eco guides, high-visibility safety lights, kayaking and safety equipment, plus water, refreshments, and light snacks.
Although this tour is best experienced on dark evenings, moonlit nights are still OK. We put a tarp over the brush on either side of the bay so you are still in the dark.
- This tour includes:
- A one-of-a-kind kayaking adventure
- Bi-lingual CPR- and First Aid-trained eco guides
- High-visibility safety lights
- Kayaking and safety equipment
- Water, refreshments, and light snacks
Days of Operation
Departures (local time)
- 5:45 PM (2 hrs) October - February, please arrive 20 minutes prior for check-in.
- 6:15 PM (2 hrs) March -April, August - September, please arrive 20 minutes prior for check-in.
- 6:30 PM (2 hrs) May - July, please arrive 20 minutes prior for check-in.
- 8:00 PM (2 hrs) October - February, please arrive 20 minutes prior for check-in.
- 8:30 PM (2 hrs) March -April, August - September, please arrive 20 minutes prior for check-in.
- 8:45 PM (2 hrs) May - July, please arrive 20 minutes prior for check-in.
Transfer / Meeting Instructions
Taxi and Transfers Required Specific pick up or taxi instructions will appear on your voucher after you purchase your trip.Special Instructions
• Transportation is not included. You must arrange your own transportation to Fajardo. From San Juan, this can take about an hour, so plan accordingly.
• Please wear your swimsuit under your clothes. We suggest that you bring an extra T-shirt, a towel, aquasocks or watershoes, insect repellent, and a waterproof camera, if you have one.
• A kayak lifejacket will be provided.
• Please note: Only double kayaks are available. If you are a single or have an odd-numbered party, you will be paired with someone else or with a guide.
Restrictions
• During the full moon cycle you will see minimal (if any) bioluminescence. We will do our best to alert you if this occurs during your visit.
• The minimum age to participate in this tour is 6 years old.
• Weight maximum is 485 pounds per couple. All kayaks are double-rider so you must be under this combined weight.
• This tour does not run on Sundays. It is a law that the operator must be closed one day a week.