My husband says three stars, I say two lol. What a disappointing and frustrating experience we had for our sunset and bioluminescence tour we booked mid week.
We had one guide K. for a group of 12 ish people, which he commented was a large group and the other guide that was scheduled was still in high school so was unable to come to work today. Um, okay. ?
Our guide did not wear a watch so was constantly asking people what time it was, he didn't wear his bubble light so we couldn't see him in the dark (he borrowed one from a guest after someone asked him about his), and he stayed at the front of the group and someone had to tell him that other kayakers were falling behind.
Our guide was nice enough but talked the whole time telling non related stories (ie about dog sitting, his interview for this job, etc).
What was the most frustrating though is the lack of actual kayaking that happened on this apparently three hour trip. We went about half a mile up to a 'cove', which was a boat ramp area and then back to the start. And then got out of kayaks while the night tour people arrived, and then we did the exact same route to the boat launch, and back. Our guide also kept killing time, and telling us so, ie 'we are going to hang out here for 30 mins' (in the boat launch area), 'we have another 15 mins to kill'. Like why can't we go kayaking then?
Oh and the best part was waiting for a guests to arrive who were going to be late. I asked if that might impact the sunset time since it was a sunset tour, and K. said we'd just stay out longer. That's not exactly how sunsets work lol but I understand wanting to wait for all guests and giving time after, but it was a sunset tour.
Anyways, we did see cool birds, dolphins and bioluminescence so that was all good. But most of that was actually done from the shore (not the bioluminescence). One of the guides who joined for the evening tour was excellent and tried hard to show everyone the comb jellyfish.
I would save your money and book with another company, on your own, or ask for a guide mentioned in the...
Read moreBK Bioluminescence Raft Tours: An Inclusive and Unforgettable Experience
If kayaking doesn't appeal to you due to size constraints, the raft tour offered by BK Bioluminescence is an excellent alternative. Our group consisted of 8 guests and our knowledgeable guide, Kylie, who catered to individuals of all ages and body types with utmost professionalism.
Kylie's warm demeanor and patient guidance made even the most novice rafters feel at ease. She treated each of us as valued individuals, making us feel comfortable and accepted regardless of our physical attributes. This inclusive approach is truly commendable and sets BK Bioluminescence apart.
What struck me most was the genuine kindness and care extended by the team, ensuring that every participant felt welcome and enjoyed the incredible experience without any judgment or bias. The tour was not just about witnessing the breathtaking bioluminescence; it was a reminder that true hospitality transcends superficial distinctions.
I highly recommend BK Bioluminescence Raft Tours to anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure in a warm and inclusive environment. Their commitment to making all guests feel valued and respected is truly inspiring. Thank you, BK Bioluminescence, for providing an exceptional experience that left a lasting...
Read moreBri, Kyle, and Xavier were amazing guides with plenty of information and energy who deserve hefty cash tips and dinner at Waffle House.
The wildlife refuge tour felt like a dream, with shooting stars above and glowing water underneath our clear kayaks, which looked like shooting stars as well! Manatees, fish, heron, crabs, stingrays, and possibly even dolphins were abound. The kayaks were tandem (two people per kayak), but weren't uncomfortable or difficult to steer in the open water, even for beginners in our group.
We used plenty of bug spray and wore long sleeves and pants to make sure the inhabitants of Mosquito Lagoon didn't take any bites out of us. We didn't take much besides some bottled water and a flashlight to make our way around the parking lot, which had more than enough space. We were soaked by the end of the tour and had towels and a change of clothes in the car. There were no restrooms, just three portapotties nearby, so we used toilets elsewhere before making our way over to Meritt Island. There is no gas or food either, so we filled up on those beforehand as well.
It was an excellent, one-of-a-kind experience for which I'll be...
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