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Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures
Category: Active Life Rafting/Kayaking Rafting/Kayaking [Edit]
3308 46th Plz EBradenton, FL 34203
(941) 504-6296
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 8 am - 8 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
2 reviews for Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures
2 reviews in English
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Review from Celia B.
Portland, OR
9/8/2011
SHANE WAS FANTASTIC!
Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures gave me great customer service as soon as I e-mailed them. I had questions, and they responded promptly with lots of details about their tours and how to attend. I then called to make reservations for the south lido tour, and it was super easy. I called the day of our tour, as weather was poor, to ask them if it was safe. They told me that our safety was what was most important to them, and that if there was any sign of lightening or heavy storms that they would either not launch or would end early. To our luck, we made it through the day with very little rain. Although it was mostly cloudy, it made the weather much more bearable and we didn't get hot! It felt like 75 out, and there were a few bursts of sun. The weather was surprisingly ideal.
When we showed up Shane greeted us promptly. We were the only ones there. Wow, this company really is great. Even though there was only two of us, the tour still went on. A lot of companies need to have a certain amount of people to attend in order for it to launch. This impressed me right off of the bat. Plus, we basically had a private tour.
Shane catered to our needs and asked us if there was anything in particular we wanted to see, where we wanted to go, etc. He gave us some instructions and tips, and was super friendly. We engaged in fantastic conversations the whole time. We saw sting rays, sea stars, tulip snails, mullet fish, LOTS of birds. The cormorants have learned that the Kayaks scare off the fish, so they trail closely behind you to grab some lunch. We had a group of 4 following us the whole time, and they we so cute and go within arms distance. Dolphins and manatees are common.
When we went into the mangroves it was the most peaceful environment I have ever been in. Just being in there was meditative. It is so calm. It was a little rainy outside and the mangroves were like a little calm shelter, still with lots of life. Birds hide in there, and there are many fish and crabs. I took lots of pictures.
Shane was so knowledgeable not only about the wildlife in Sarasota but also about the history of the area. We were so impressed. He almost seemed over qualified, because he knew so much! You could also tell that he really enjoyed his job, it reflected in his smile and positive attitude, and his interest in sharing information about this beautiful place that he can call home.
Our tour ran over the time we thought it would, which was a good thing. If we had to end on time, we would have, but since it was just us and we were having so much fun we were able to explore a little longer. We were not sore after the trip as you pretty much take your time and cruise through the bay, stopping to look at/for wildlife. In the mangroves were cruised slowly to be able to take in the whole relaxing experience. It was perfect. Also, the price was very reasonable for an amazing guided tour, all equipment included, and a long trip out on the water.
I could not have ever imagined a better tour guide and a better kayaking trip, and don't think I will have a kayaking experience as good as this. He set the bar way high and so did all of the folks at Almost Heaven. Lido key and the mangroves are also a great location for such a tour, as the water was smooth as butter and the wildlife is plenty.
If you get Shane as your tour guide you will be very lucky! I wish we had swapped numbers after because I would definitely love to befriend this guy! Keep up the good work, Almost Heaven! We will have to return for one of your other trips, and will be requesting Shane as our tour guide! -
Review from Erin C.
Columbus, MS
5/5/2011
Our tour guide (Shane, I think?) was adorable and extremely educated about the area and local wildlife. He was lots of fun. The kayaks were in great shape. I'd say the actual tour (did the mangrove forest one) was even a little too long for my taste (just over 2 hours), but I think they really try to give you your money's worth. It was wonderful overall!
