Bioluminescence Paddle on Tomales Bay

Trip Overview

An evening paddle on Tomales Bay is a unique experience, made more spectacular by the abundant bioluminescent plankton that emit small bursts of light with each paddle stroke. It’s an incredible sight to behold! During your trip you will first learn the basics of sea kayaking, safety guidelines for paddling at night, and then have a special opportunity to explore Tomales Bay under the cover of darkness. This trip is great for novice to advanced paddlers of varying abilities.

Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon and its brightness depends on environmental factors like wind, water temperature, and the amount of ambient light. We choose the darkest nights of summer and fall, which gives us the best chances of seeing a spectacular light show.

Trip Details

Cost: $150 per person

Dates: We are offering the following dates for bioluminescence paddles in 2024:

• August 3, 2024 (TRIP FULL)
  Meeting Time: 6:45 pm | Approximate End Time: 10:45 pm
• September 28, 2024 (TRIP FULL)
  Meeting Time: 5:30 pm | Approximate End Time: 9:30 pm
• October 26, 2024 (TRIP FULL)
  Meeting Time: 4:45 pm | Approximate End Time: 8:45 pm
• November 2, 2024 (TRIP FULL)
  Meeting Time: 4:30 pm | Approximate End Time: 8:30 pm

Trip Meeting Location: Heart’s Desire Beach, Tomales Bay State Park, Inverness, CA

Scholarships:
At ETC, we believe that everyone, regardless of financial limitations, should be able to experience the beauty of nature and the challenge of outdoor adventure. We have a limited scholarship budget should a participant not be able to afford the above prices. To apply for a scholarship, please contact the Program Manager and complete a Scholarship Application.

Accessibility:
ETC is committed to making outdoor adventures accessible to people with special needs, and our guides are experienced in making adaptations for a wide range of physical and cognitive abilities. If you have questions about accessibility, please contact the Sea Kayak Program Manager.

Scheduling and Other Resources

Booking:
To book a space on the trip or ask any questions, please contact Sea Kayak Program Manager at 415-474-7662 ext.13 or kayak@etctrips.org

Resources for Participants:

Complete Trip Packet
Health Form & Liability Release
Driving Directions: Tomales Bay
Equipment List: Evening Paddles