---
title: Guided Clear Kayak Tour - Gilchrist Blue Springs
slug: clear-kayak-tour-gilchrist-blue-springs-fort-white
type: attraction
sub_type: kayaking
source_url: https://www.tripster.com/detail/clear-kayak-tour-gilchrist-blue-springs-fort-white
city: Fort White
state: FL
country: US
address: 1447 SW Rum Island Terrace
geo:
  lat: 29.83369
  lng: -82.67838
duration: up to 3 hrs
cancellation_policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
extracted_at: 2026-06-16T17:28:55.272Z
price_from:
  amount: 74
  currency: USD
  unit: per_adult
availability: InStock
rating:
  value: 5
  count: 115
  scale: 5
ticket_options:
  - group: Other Options
    options:
      - name: Gilchrist Blue Clear Kayak Tour
        price: 74
        ticket_types:
          - name: Adult (18+ yrs)
            min_age: 18
          - name: Child (2-17 yrs)
            min_age: 2
            max_age: 17
---
## Overview

Paddle down the Santa Fe River and visit some of Florida’s most beautiful springs, including Gilchrist Blue Spring on a 2-hour guided clear kayak tour.

## What's Included

- Expert guide
- Clear kayak and paddles
- Safety gear
- Goggles
- Dry bags

## What's Not Included

- On-site paid parking ($5)

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:start -->
## Ticket Options

- **Gilchrist Blue Clear Kayak Tour** — $74.00
  Paddle crystal-clear springs on a 2-hour guided clear kayak tour at Gilchrist Blue Springs. Enjoy wildlife viewing, spring swimming, and expert guidance. Includes the use of a kayak, paddle, life jackets, goggles and a dry bag.
  - Adult (18+ yrs)
  - Child (2-17 yrs)

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:end -->

## Good to Know

* Paddle down the scenic Santa Fe River on a transparent kayak.  
* See fish, turtles, otters, white-tailed deer, herons and swallow-tail kites.  
* Swim and snorkel in the refreshing, clear blue spring water.  
* Knowledgeable guides share local ecology and history.  
* Departs from Kings Bay Park; arrive 15 minutes prior to tour departure.  
* Paid parking is available at Rum Island County Park.  
* Family-friendly and suitable for ages 2 and up; infants 1 or under are not permitted.  
* Each minor must be accompanied by an adult age 18+.  
* Includes safety gear, paddles, goggles, and dry bags.  
* The tour is suitable for all skill levels; some sections may have a mild current of up to 3 mph.  
* Life jackets are provided for all guests; children 6 and under must wear them at all times.  
* Tandem kayaks have a maximum weight limit of 425 lbs per boat and 250 lbs per seat.  
* Bring a camera or smartphone, water, swimsuit or quick-dry clothes, water-friendly footwear, towel, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.  
* Dry bag is provided per kayak.  
* Pets are not allowed on the tour.  
* Tour lasts around two hours.  
* Tours depart from Rum Island County Park, located at 1447 SW Rum Island Terrace, Fort White, Florida.  
* Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour time.  

## FAQs

### What wildlife might I see on the tour?

You might spot plenty of turtles, fish (including mullet), herons, otters, white-tailed deer and swallow-tail kites.

### Can beginners join the tour?

Yes. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, and guides provide basic tips to help you paddle confidently. Some sections may feel intermediate due to a mild current of up to 3 mph. Guides maintain a comfortable group pace, and guests are required to stay with the group.

### Do I need to know how to swim?

It is not required, but you should be comfortable on the water. Life jackets are provided for all guests to ensure an extra level of safety as well.

### Are the kayaks tandem or solo?

Each of the kayaks is tandem (made for 2 paddlers). However, the seats are removable, and if you have an odd number of paddlers in your party, they can accommodate the kayak as a single.

### Is there a weight limit?

Yes, tandem kayaks have a maximum weight limit of 425 lbs per boat and 250 lbs per seat.

### What should I bring on the tour?

Bring a camera or smartphone, water, a swimsuit or quick-dry clothes, water-friendly sandals/shoes, a towel, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. A dry bag is provided per kayak.

### Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for children ages 2 and up. Infants 1 and under are not permitted. Each guest aged 17 or under must be accompanied by an adult.

### Where does the kayak tour depart from?

Tours depart from Rum Island County Park, located at 1447 SW Rum Island Terrace, Fort White, Florida. It’s located just 30 minutes from Gainesville and the University of Florida.

### Is there parking?

Yes, there is on-site paid parking at $5.

### How long is the kayak tour?

This guided clear kayak tour lasts around two hours.

### How early should I arrive?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour time and allow yourself time to park and use the restroom if needed prior to your tour time.

### Are life jackets provided?

Yes, life jackets are provided. However, for children 30 lbs or under, bring a size-specific, Coast Guard-approved life jacket for them. Children 6 and under must wear life jackets at all times during the tour.

### Can I bring a pet?

Sorry, pets are not allowed on the tour.

## Reviews

> "Bry is Awesome"
> — 514troyc, August 29, 2025