GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Paddle with a Florida Naturalist: Migratory Birds on the Indian River Lagoon
A 2.5–3 hour guided kayak program that pairs hands-on data collection with monthly naturalist-led themes—this guide explains what to expect, who it fits, and how the route unfolds.
Paddle with a Florida Naturalist: Migratory Birds on the Indian River Lagoon.
Forever Explorers is a guided, 2.5–3 hour kayak experience led by a Florida Naturalist that focuses each month on a different ecological topic; this session’s emphasis on migratory birds sends paddlers into the shallow, wildlife-rich reaches of the Indian River Lagoon for identification, field data collection and close-up observation.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Led by a Florida Naturalist
Every Forever Explorers tour is guided by a Florida Naturalist who provides species identification and contextual natural-history interpretation throughout the paddle.
A rotating monthly theme
Each outing explores a different topic in line with the month’s theme—participants do hands-on, feet‑wet data collection and learn about plant and animal communities relevant to that topic.
Indian River Lagoon exploration
Paddlers work through parts of the Indian River Lagoon to identify species and collect field observations tied to the program’s monthly theme.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
Expect a guided, small-group paddle lasting roughly two-and-a-half to three hours: the naturalist directs observation and hands-on activities—collecting simple field data, identifying plants and animals, and interpreting the lagoon’s ecology—while participants paddle single or tandem kayaks through sheltered waterways.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Tours run approximately 2.5–3 hours.
Plan to wear clothing that can get wet; some sessions include a snack, and kayaks (single and tandem) are provided by the operator.
Departure points vary by date—check the event listing for the public-facing departure location for your scheduled date.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Forever Explorers Kayak Tour?
The tour lasts about 2.5–3 hours.
Who leads the tour?
A Florida Naturalist guides every Forever Explorers kayak tour.
What ages can participate?
Programs are restricted to participants ages 18 and older; signed kayak waivers are required for participation.
Do I need kayaking experience?
No prior experience is required—beginners are welcome and both single and tandem kayaks are available.
Where do tours depart from?
Departure locations vary by date; consult the public-facing event listing for the specific launch site for your chosen date.
What activities are included?
In addition to paddling and species identification, many sessions include hands-on data collection and, on some bird-focused dates, on‑shore activities such as examining owl pellets.