Summary

Space Shuttle Launch Kayak Tour

Prices From	USD$ $32.00
1st Departure	02.12.2009
Provider	A Day Away Kayak Tours
Destination	Merrit Island
Duration	A 2 Hour trip, NASA willing....
Challenge	Easy
Avg Rating	Not Rated

There are few things more exciting than watching a launch of one of our Space shuttles. We have one of the best seats available with no traffic and a completely unobstructed view. You can see the shuttle launch pad from our kayak site straight across Mosquito Lagoon. On most launches the shuttle travels North so it comes toward us and the roar of the engines across the open water is quite the heart pounding event.

We launch from the NW corner of Haulover Canal and paddle through the canal into scenic Mosquito Lagoon to watch the launch. This is a short (2 mile round trip) paddle. We cannot guarantee a launch, unfortunately, that's up to NASA, but we can guarantee a beautiful paddle and one of the best seats available without the crowds and traffic jam and a less cost than many parking spaces. Even if the shuttle scrubs you have had a wonderful outing on the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and won't wait hours in traffic, but will enjoy a peaceful paddle back to your car. Who knows. you might even get a visit from from one of the refuge's local residents!

Itinerary

For Your Day Trip with A Day Away

Meeting time is generally 2 hours prior to the scheduled launch time
Arrival and gear up; complete waivers
Safety talk; PFD check; Brief paddling instruction
Launch kayaks; paddle to manatee hangout spots for brief visit
Paddle to SE corner of Haulover; arrive 30-45 minutes before launch time
Watch spectacular Launch of Space Shuttle
Paddle back to launch site
Arrive; Turn in gear; Farewell

Gear List

Conditions can be extreme here in Florida. It is important to prepare well to gain the best enjoyment from your trip. Your guides are very familiar with your paddling environment and conditions. Feel free to ask any questions you would like in order to understand all you need to be confident about your trip. Please understand, we will not paddle in unsafe conditions including high winds and thunderstorms.

Clothes you don’t mind getting a little wet.
Swim suit/board shorts, shirt; Cool weather… cover-ups (avoid cotton)
Water Shoes or sandals that can be worn in the water
Bring an extra change of clothes just in case…
Hat & sunglasses are great and SUNSCREEN – very important
Camera & Dry bag (optional)
Bottled water, Snacks
Towel (left in car)
Any special personal paddling gear if you like
Bug Repellent
Lock valuables in your trunk (never had a problem but is more safe)

What to expect…

A drive that is 20 minutes east of Titusville out on the Refuge
No restroom facilities at the launch site (visitor center is the closest)
Just under two hours on the water for a leisurely paddle
Expect to get a little wet – depends on you (or possibly your friends)
To see lots of wildlife and stretch those muscles a little
To learn some basics about paddling and more about local wildlife
To actually wear your life vest & whistle
Great guides who enjoy their work and keep you safe

Lots of outdoor fun and a desire to come back real soon.

Travel Information

Activity Location

Shuttle Lauch - Haulover Alternate Route
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
East of Titusville, FL 32780 USA

Is This Trip For You?

Destination Location

Beach access road SR 402/406 will be closed for the launch. To arrive at the launch site you must travel north on US #1 17.5 miles from the intersection of US#1 and SR #402/406 (Garden Street) in Titusville to just south of Oak Hill and turn right onto Kennedy Parkway (SR#3); look for the big brown sign to Merritt Island Refuge. Then travel 8.7 miles to the drawbridge at Haulover Canal. Turn right just before the drawbridge and follow the road to the left down the canal to the end.

You may also download Shuttle Launch directions from our website @ www.adayawaykayaktours.com under the download area.