Summary
Space Shuttle Launch Kayak Tour
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Prices From
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USD$ $32.00
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1st Departure
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10.09.2008
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Provider
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A Day Away Kayak Tours
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Destination
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Florida
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Duration
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A 2 Hour trip, NASA willing....
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Challenge
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Easy
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Avg Rating
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Not Rated
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There are few things more exciting than watching a launch of one of our Space shuttles. A Day Away has 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, 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.
Itinerary
- 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.
What to wear….
- Clothes you don’t mind getting a little wet.
- Warm weather… Swim suit/board shorts & T shirt
- Cool weather… the same with nylon cover-ups ( Avoid cotton if possible)
- Shoes – preferably full sandals that can be worn in the water
- Bring an extra change of clothes just in case…
- Hat & sunglasses are great
- SUNSCREEN – very important
What to Bring…
- Camera & Dry bag (optional) These can get wet so a dry bag is important. Zip locks are Dangerous for expensive gear.
- Bottled water, Snacks
- Towel (left in car)
- Any special personal paddling gear if you like
- Bug Repellent
- Please lock valuables in your trunk ( never had a problem but this is more safe)
What to expect…
- A drive that enters through the North entrance to the Refuge, just south of Oak Hill Florida
- No restroom facilities at the launch site (visitor center is the closest restrooms/ PortaJon at Bairs Cove Boat Ramp
- A two hour paddling trip
- One of the best views of the Space Shuttle Launch you will ever see. 7 miles no obstructions.
- Expect to get a little wet – depends on you (or possibly your friends)
- NASA to do their thing, delay or launch
- To paddle for about 90 minutes on flat-water
- To stretch those muscles a little
- To get out for a rest and stretch break one time – most trips
- To learn some of the very basics about paddling and more about local wildlife
- To actually wear your life vest & whistle
- Great guides who enjoy their work and understand how to keep you safe
- Lots of outdoor fun
- A desire to come back real soon
If you have any difficulty finding us you may reach us at one of the following numbers… 321-268-2655 – Office ; 321-863-0515 – Cell
Travel Information
