Mangrove Kayaking (Double)

OVERVIEW

Kayak through mangrove-rimmed waterways looking for wildlife and learning about the enormous environmental value of the coastal vegetation. Once you ease into the two-person kayak, you will follow the guide into the mangroves, whose above-ground roots form arched thickets that shelter wildlife. In addition to providing a valuable habitat for fish, birds and other animals, the mangroves play a crucial role by helping to prevent erosion and filter impurities, which keeps the shoreline intact and pristine. You can expect the only sounds to be your paddle breaking the surface of the water and birds singing in the dense foliage. At times, the vegetation will literally engulf you, as kayaks have a shallow draft, allowing you to venture through narrow areas that other vessels can’t negotiate. As you paddle along, be sure to look for turtles, crabs and stingrays around the roots of the mangroves. They live and breed there, which is why mangroves are considered marine nurseries.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Paddle a two-person kayak around a serene waterway lined with mangroves.
• Learn about the many benefits of mangroves from the naturalist guide.
• Look for wildlife such as birds, fish and turtles that take shelter in the mangroves.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.