Paddle through glowing bioluminescent waters in see-through kayaks in Florida

If the phenomenon of bioluminescence intrigues you, kayaking is a great way to examine the glowing waters for yourself in Florida’s Space Coast.

Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by a living organism, and it can be found in terrestrial creatures like fireflies, various marine life and even some fungi species. It occurs in Florida due to a chemical reaction that causes cone jellyfish and bioluminescent plankton to illuminate when the water is disturbed.

The phenomenon can be seen to great effect in Florida by those paddling in see-through kayaks, as each stroke causes ripples of glowing lights. The warmer the weather and water and the darker the evening, the better the bioluminescence.

“When the organisms move in the water they create a beautiful glowing effect,” says Get Up and Go Kayaking, which offers bioluminescent tours. “This means that you can see fish underwater by the glow that they give off as they swim, your paddle will glow as you manoeuvre the waterways, and the natural flow of water will illuminate these organisms.”

The season generally runs from end of May to October and is most visible on the darkest nights when the moon is darker than 55%. While paddling in a clear kayak, you can see the glowing water directly below you and you will ignite the water as you paddle.

Tours take place in the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge just outside of Titusville. As well as being home to bioluminescent marine life, large manatee and dolphin populations often make appearances during the kayaking excursions.

For further information, see Get Up and Go Kayaking’s website here.

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