LiveWater Experiences: Eco-conscious Kayak Tours @Silver Springs & Florida Nature Experiences — Local services in Ocala

We had carefully researched several different kayak tours at Silver Springs before we chose LiveWater Experiences. Wow, did we ever make a great choice! First of all, Tania's tours are limited to 5 people, so you get a much more personalized and intimate experience than you would as part of one of the large tour groups. Second, Tania was a fabulous guide--she knew where to look for different wildlife and features of the springs, and she was incredibly knowledgeable about the flora and fauna of the area. I don't think we were able to stump her with our questions. We saw manatees, tilapia, gar, anhingas, double-breasted cormorants, snowy egrets, a red-shouldered hawk, turtles, pied-billed grebes, little blue herons, a green heron, tricolored herons, alligators, wood ducks, and more. Third--and this was a great bonus--she took amazing photos of our group from her perspective standing on her SUP, as well as some incredible underwater photos of manatees and other aquatic life.

We had thoughts about taking a tour in clear or glass-bottomed kayaks, but the folks we talked to on the water who were in those craft said that they were hard to see through (due to wear and tear) and they were getting their best views over the sides of their boats, just like we were. It also appeared that Tania's kayaks were much more stable and maneuverable than the bathtub-like clear kayaks. Ultimately, we were perfectly happy with our regular kayaks.

If you're in Silver Springs and really appreciate wildlife and the intimacy of a small group tour, this is the...

I can't recommend this tour enough! Tania is such a remarkable person – deeply eco-conscious and dedicated to sustainability, especially when it comes to wildlife preservation. We had a fantastic time kayaking with her, spotting manatees, birds, turtles, and fish, all while learning about the rich history of the local flora and fauna. Tania's communication was excellent, balancing professionalism with a relaxed, friendly approach that made the experience truly enjoyable.

Her connection to nature is clear, and as someone who cares deeply about wildlife, this tour was by far the highlight of our six-day trip to Central Florida. We had booked a few other tours, but they left us feeling like the wildlife was being exploited or rushed. This tour, on the other hand, was calm, respectful, and focused on the well-being of the animals.

Tania’s diverse life experiences—having lived across Canada and the U.S. and traveled extensively—brought a unique perspective to the tour. She pointed out native species such as gar and tilapia, which really enriched our understanding of the area. To top it off, Tania took numerous photos and videos throughout the tour, so we have beautiful memories to look back on.

If you’re looking for a genuine, educational, and memorable eco-tour, this is the one. I can't recommend it enough – it was undoubtedly the highlight...

Absolutely life-changing experience! The tour along the stunning river was nothing short of magical. Gliding through the calm waters, we were surrounded by breathtaking views and a rich variety of wildlife—everything from birds soaring overhead to manatees swimming beneath us. But what truly made this tour unforgettable was our incredible guide. Tania’s passion for nature was infectious, and her deep knowledge brought every moment to life. She shared fascinating insights with so much enthusiasm! I left feeling more connected to nature and more inspired than ever. This is a must-do for anyone who loves adventure and the beauty...