SILVER SPRINGS
PADDLE ADVENTURE
RATES:
$69 (Adults 13+)
$59 (Children 4–12)
TIME: 9am & 12:30pm
DURATION: 2 - 2.5 Hours
AVALABILITY: Daily
EXPERIENCE: Beginner & Family Friendly
FITNESS LEVEL: Moderate
MANATEE SEASON: November 15th to March 31st
ADVENTURE DETAILS
Set off on a bucket-list paddle-boarding adventure, exploring one of the largest artesian springs in Florida and the world. Silver Springs is home to the beloved West Indian Manatee, monkeys swaying in the trees above, and a host of other wildlife that will ignite your sense of adventure. The enchanting electric blue water reveals aquatic life frolicking below, sunken boats from times past, and even traces of old Hollywood movie history beneath your paddle board. Silver Springs is a designated National Natural Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in America.
MANATEES & MONKEYS
Silver Springs State Park is a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Paddle alongside the gentle giants of the springs—manatees—as they glide gracefully beneath your board. Keep an eye out for the unexpectedly playful rhesus monkeys that have made their home here at Silver Springs State Park. These curious creatures add a unique and exotic element to your adventure. With a vibrant array of birds, fish, turtles, and alligators, this location boasts the most diverse wildlife encounters in Florida. While we strive to provide the best possible experience, please note that wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
MANATEE SEASON - November 15th to March 31st
Manatees can be seen year-round at Silver Springs, but the best time to witness these majestic creatures in greater numbers is during manatee season, from November 15th to March 31st. During this period, the cooler water temperatures draw more manatees to the springs, offering a prime opportunity to observe them up close. The colder it is, the more likely we are to see these gentle giants as they seek the warmth of the springs, making this season an extraordinary chance to connect with them in their natural habitat.
GUARDIAN GUIDES
As certified Guardian Guides, we are dedicated to ensuring that our paddle-boarding tours respect and protect the endangered manatees we encounter. Our mission is to create a safe and serene environment for these gentle giants by minimizing any disturbances during your adventure. We prioritize education and appreciation of manatees, providing insights into their behavior and habitat while promoting the ongoing conservation of this cherished species. By joining us, you contribute to the protection of manatees and support our efforts to preserve their natural habitat for future generations.
GIVING BACK
In our dedication to protecting manatees, we contribute $1 per guest to the Save the Manatee nonprofit organization. This donation helps fund crucial conservation efforts and supports the preservation of these incredible mammals. By joining us on this adventure, you’re not only experiencing the beauty of Silver Springs but also playing a part in the vital work to safeguard manatees for future generations.
WHAT’S INCLUDED + MORE
Your Adventure Includes:
Premium Paddle Board + Necessary Equipment
PFD (Personal Flotation Device) + Whistle
Dry Bag
Knowledgeable Tour Guide
Paddle & Water Safety Instructions
Premium Photo + Video Package
Excluded:
Silver Springs State Park fees: $4 launch fee per vessel and $2 park admission fee per person (to be paid upon arrival after check-in with your tour guide).
Paddle Board Kayak:
Upgrade to our Premium Foldable SUP Seat & Kayak Paddle for just $10. You can select this option when booking your adventure.
Explore the water with our kayak setup, combining the agility of a paddle board with the comfort of a kayak.
Our premium paddle boards boast top-notch stability and performance, while our kayak option features a deluxe kayak seat and kayak paddle for an enhanced, leisurely adventure.
REQUIREMENTS + MORE
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Cancellation Policy
At Otter Paddle Orlando, we understand that plans may change, and we strive to accommodate our guests whenever possible. However, last-minute cancellations impact our operations and limit availability for others. To ensure fairness and efficient service, we have established the following policies.
Cancellations Made in Advance: Cancellations made 72 hours or more before the scheduled booking date are eligible for a full refund. If a cancellation occurs within 72 hours of the booking date, guests may choose to reschedule or receive a gift card. Unfortunately, cancellations made on the day of the booking, as well as late arrivals and no-shows, are not eligible for a refund.
Late Arrival Policy: We allow a 10-minute grace period for guests who may be delayed. After this grace period, we are unable to accommodate late arrivals, as it may disrupt the experience for other guests. Guests who cancel on the day of their tour, arrive after the 10-minute grace period, or do not show up but contact us on the day of their reservation may receive a gift card. However, a $75 rescheduling fee must be paid to obtain the gift card. Guests who contact us after the scheduled tour date will not be eligible for a refund, reschedule, or gift card.
Weather Policy: For the safety of our guests, Otter Paddle Orlando reserves the right to cancel tours in the event of unsafe weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances, or any other reason that may compromise guest safety. While we do operate in light rain, if a tour is canceled by Otter Paddle Orlando due to weather or safety concerns, guests will have the option to reschedule their tour or receive a gift card for future use. Please note that refunds will not be issued in these circumstances.
All policies are strictly enforced to ensure fairness and smooth operations. Gift cards issued by Otter Paddle Orlando do not expire, providing guests with the flexibility to reschedule at their convenience. This cancellation policy is subject to change. We will make every effort to communicate updates in advance, and we recommend reviewing our policy at the time of booking.
By booking with Otter Paddle Orlando, guests acknowledge and agree to comply with the policies outlined above.
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• Each guest must pay the Silver Springs State Park fee upon arrival. There is a $4 launch fee per vessel, plus a park admission fee of $2 per person.
Once you have parked, you can check in with your tour guide, who will direct you on where to go to pay the fees.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow enough time to wait in line and be ready for your tour check-in time.
• A completed waiver is required for each participant prior to check-in. Once the reservation has been made, you will receive a booking confirmation email with online waiver instructions + more.
• Each participant must be a confident swimmer, comfortable in and around the water, must be fully mobile and in good physical condition to join this tour. Paddle boarding is a physical activity.
• Minors under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
• Minors 4-12 years of age must be accompanied by a parent/guardian on the same paddle board.
• Minors 13-17 years of age may paddle board on their own, with a parent/guardian next to the minor for the full duration of the tour.
• Minors 3 years of age and under are not permitted.
• Pets are not permitted. -
Please note, we must have at least 2 guests attending a tour to operate. If you are the only guest on the tour, we will reach out to inform you. If no other guests book prior to 24 hours, we will have to cancel the tour and reschedule or provide a full refund.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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At Silver Springs, encounters with alligators are common during the tours. These magnificent creatures are part of the natural ecosystem in this area. While they can occasionally be spotted along the tour, rest assured that our guides are experienced in navigating these waters safely, ensuring an enjoyable and secure experience for all our guests. Your safety is our priority, and we maintain all necessary precautions to offer a memorable yet secure exploration of Silver Springs' remarkable biodiversity.
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We prioritize safety for all our participants, which is why we require everyone to have swimming proficiency. Feeling confident and comfortable in and around water is essential for this activity. If you have any questions or concerns about your comfort level in the water, please reach out to us. Your safety is our top priority, and we're here to help ensure a great experience for everyone.
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To ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment, participants must be a minimum of 4 years old to join our tours. Additionally, individuals aged 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the duration of the tour. If you have any further questions about age requirements, please don't hesitate to contact us.
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Our paddle boards are designed for a maximum of two individuals: one adult and one child. For children aged 4 to 12, it's required that they ride on the same paddle board as their parent. However, if a child within this age range has previous paddle experience and feels comfortable, they do have the option to ride on their individual paddle board.
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Absolutely! You're welcome to bring your own paddle board or kayak on our guided tours. During the reservation process, simply select the 'Bring My Own' option, and a $10 discount will automatically be applied.
Furthermore, your guided tour covers all park fees and includes our favorite photo and video package.
Friendly reminder: please plan to arrive early to ensure ample time for setting up your equipment before the tour's check-in time. Being prepared beforehand ensures a smooth and timely start to your adventure. Additionally, remember to bring all necessary equipment and be ready to go at the scheduled check-in time for the tour.
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We share your love for animals and understand the importance of family pets. However, please note that our tours do not permit pets. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.
Launch Location:
Only 1 Hour 30 Minutes from Orlando