Name: Sunset Serenity -- Rentals
Start: 2024-11-15T15:45:00-05:00
End: 2024-11-15T18:45:00-05:00

***BEFORE YOU RSVP*** *for this trip, please read entire trip announcement.*

After the recent turmoil of hurricanes and politics, we all could use some peacefulness. Come out and experience the serenity of a sunset kayak tour. Paddle gently through the Dead River Marsh enjoying the bright yellow sunflowers, lavender asters, and brilliant red holly berries.

Watch the sun set over the water, lighting the clouds and sky with yellows and oranges . . . which slowly transfer to the water around us. As the frogs begin their evening symphony, the full moon rises behind us. We pause to allow the moonlight to wash over us, then turn on our headlamps and reluctantly make our way back to our launch. Tour begins an hour before sunset. Hosted by our Friends of Lake Griffin State Park certified paddle tour guides. All proceeds benefit Lake Griffin State Park.

**WHO CAN COME:**
Because this a public tour hosted by Friends of Lake Griffin State Park, you may invite a non-member to join you. Visit FLGSP.org for details and to register. Advance registration required. Space is limited to 12, including non-VKCK members of the general public. All participants must use sit-on-top kayaks provided by the park.

**TO SIGN UP:**
To participate in this tour, you ***MUST*** pay in advance on the Friends of Lake Griffin State Park web site: ***FLGSP.org***. Participation is limited to 12 (including non-VCKC customers) so pay on line FIRST, before you RSVP through this Meetup site. Your $37.45 fee includes kayak, paddle, PFD, whistle, headlamp, and services of 4 Florida State Parks Certified Paddle Tour Guides.

**CANCELLATION:**
This tour will be cancelled in case of inclement weather, wind more than 12 mph, or if the sky is totally covered by clouds. You will be notified by text and email, and you will receive a full refund. However, if you find you must cancel ahead of time for personal reasons, be sure to cancel your registration on FLGSP.org in order to receive a refund.

**OUR GUIDES:**
Our guides are Flo Hurlburt, Dave Davidson and Linda Morrison. They're all Florida State Parks Certified Paddle Tour Guides and VCKC members. As volunteers, they have led both daytime and night eco-tours in this park for six years. Let them introduce you to the serenity of sunset on the water!

**KAYAKS:**
Tour participants must use sit-upon kayaks provided by the park. No personal boats permitted on sunset tours. You may bring your own vest-type PFD and paddle. State Park regulations prohibit using waistband inflatable PFDs.

**WHAT TO WEAR:**
Temperature will drop about 10 degrees while we're on the water. Dress in layers, and bring a light jacket. You will walk a few steps in mid-calf deep water to enter and exit your kayak, so wear shoes that can get wet and pants that can roll up.

**PADDLING CONDITIONS:**
We will paddle about 2 miles over 90 minutes. There is no current. We may encounter light winds on the open water. Gnats may be an issue after dark.

**SKILL LEVEL:**
Participants must be able to paddle forward, backward, turn, and stop their boats. We will paddle gently and will spend time sitting quietly on the open water. Be mentally prepared to paddle into darkness, with only a headlamp and moonlight, knowing there are gators nearby. We have led this trip dozens of times and believe it is safe and enjoyable, but each paddler is ultimately responsible for their own safety and comfort.

**ENTRY FEE:** Park admission fee of $5 per vehicle will be collected at entrance, unless you have a Florida State Parks pass or you're a member of Friends of Lake Griffin State Park.

**TIMING:**
3:45 -- arrive at ranger station, pay $5 per vehicle entrance fee, park cars, issue headlamps, visit restrooms
4:30 - launch kayaks and begin tour
5:33 - sunset
6:15- ish p.m. (approx) - return to launch

**MEAL OPTION:** Arrive at the park early and enjoy a picnic on your own. Explore the walking trails, exercise on the fitness stations, or visit the 400-year-old giant oak tree.

**RESTROOMS:** Available near launch ramp.

**CANCELLATION:** This tour will be cancelled in case of inclement weather, wind more than 12 mph, or if the sky is totally covered by clouds. You will be notified by text and email, and you will receive a full refund. However, if you find you must cancel ahead of time for personal reasons, be sure to cancel your registration on FLGSP.org in order to receive a refund.

**EQUIPMENT:** You are responsible for your own comfort and safety.
Required:

* rental includes sit-on-top kayak, paddle, whistle, PFD, headlamp, kayak safety light
* PFD must be worn correctly and fastened at all times
* sense of adventure

Recommended:

* extra layers for 10-15 degree cooler temperatures after dark
* headlamp (bring your own, or we will provide)
* water bottle
* insect repellant
* wear long pants and long sleeves
* waterproof bag for keys, phone, camera, etc
* ID and emergency contact info

PADDLE SAFELY AND ENJOY THE SERENITY OF THE NIGHT!

The Villages Canoe & Kayak Club

Travel & Outdoor

Flat Water Kayaking

Canoeing

Sea Kayaking

Paddling

Kayaking

Sunset Serenity -- Rentals

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Sunset Serenity -- Rentals

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