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Eco-Tourism

Healthy ecosystems make very significant economic contributions, but often in ways that transcend conventional accounting.

The health of Sarasota Bay is inextricably linked to the economic vitality and quality of life we experience in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.


Bay-wise Kayak Tours

Join SBEP for educational kayak tours throughout Sarasota Bay and discover the plants, animals, habitats and other features that make Sarasota Bay an Estuary of National Significance.

This program is sponsored by the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and is FREE to the public and runs December through April each year. Look for list of upcoming tours in the fall of 2010.

All trips will be 2 – 3hrs. in duration and will depart promptly at 9 AM. Space is limited to 15 people per trip.  Dates and departure points are:

Participants must bring their own kayak and gear.

Gear checklist

  • Whistle (required)
  • hat
  • water (required)
  • lifejacket (required)
  • sun protection (required)
  • water shoes (required)
  • paddle (required)
  • snack
  • clothes that can get wet
  • Ziploc bags for dry storage
  • camera/binoculars
  • kayak ( required)

 

Kayak Rental Companies

  • Almost Heaven 504-6296
  • Florida Watersports 798-3721
  • Beach Bums 778-3316 (offering discount if you mention Bay Wise)
  • Economy Tackle 922-9671
  • Silent Sports 966-5477
  • Midnight Pass Bike and Kayak 346-0891
  • Siesta Sports Rentals 346-1797
  • Island Style Watersports 954-1009

 

Important information - If you have never kayaked before we suggest that you contact one of the kayak rental companies below and take a class or “demo day” BEFORE your Bay Wise trip.  Bay Wise kayak tours are not recommended for novice kayakers.  Participants who wish to sign up for more than one trip will be able to sign up for one trip and then be put on a waiting list for the other trips of interest.  Participants will be contacted before their trip via email to confirm.  Rescheduling of Bay Wise kayak tours due to unforeseen circumstances will also be communicated via email.  All participants MUST sign a waiver to hold harmless SBEP and Jack Taylor.  The kayak rental company will probably have you sign their own release form.  Minors must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian in order to participate.  Children under 10 years of age are discouraged from participating.

For more program information, kayak rental information or for reservations please contact the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program offices at 941-955-8085 or info@sarasotabay.org.   If you need to cancel your reservation please contact SBEP offices as soon as possible.