Otter Paddle Orlando – Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

  • A: Otter Paddle Orlando is a family-owned adventure company offering paddleboarding and kayak hybrid tours in Central Florida’s most beautiful waterways. We guide experiences in Orlando, Winter Park, Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, and Merritt Island—including dolphin and manatee paddle tours and the famous bioluminescence night tours.

  • A: No prior experience is required, but for your safety you must be able to swim and feel comfortable and confident in and around the water. Our tours are beginner-friendly—most of our guests are first-timers. Before launching, our guides provide a quick land lesson, safety briefing, and on-water tips so you can relax and enjoy your adventure.

Booking & Reservations

  • A: All tours are by reservation only. You can book directly through our website. If you need assistance, call or text us at 407.952.2481 or email info@otterpaddleorlando.com

  • A: No, we do not take walk-ups. Reservations are required so we can prepare equipment and ensure you have the best experience.

  • A: At Otter Paddle Orlando, we understand that plans may change, and we strive to be as flexible as possible. Our policy ensures fairness and smooth operations:

    • Cancellations Made 72+ Hours in Advance → Eligible for a full refund.

    • Cancellations Within 72 Hours → May reschedule or receive a gift card (never expires).

    • Day-Of Cancellations, No-Shows, or Late Arrivals → Not eligible for a refund. Guests who contact us on the day of their reservation may receive a gift card with a $75 rescheduling fee. Guests who reach out after the scheduled tour date are not eligible for refunds, reschedules, or gift cards.

    • Late Arrival Policy → A 10-minute grace period is allowed. After this, we cannot hold the group.

    • Weather Policy → We operate in light rain, but may cancel for unsafe conditions. If Otter Paddle Orlando cancels, you may reschedule or receive a gift card. Refunds are not issued for weather cancellations.

    Gift cards issued by Otter Paddle Orlando never expire and can be used at your convenience.

    By booking, guests acknowledge and agree to comply with this policy.

What to Bring & Wear

  • A: Comfort is key. You’ll want to paddle barefoot, as it gives you the best balance and control on your board. Flip-flops or water shoes are recommended for getting in and out of the water — these can be stored in the back bungees of your board during the tour.

    During cooler months, dress in layers of athletic clothing that are easy to move in. A light jacket is helpful, and you can choose whether to wear socks and shoes or go barefoot depending on the temperature. Wear clothing that is comfortable, quick-drying, and easy to remove in layers if needed.

  • A: No, we provide everything you need — paddleboards, paddles, and USCG-approved life jackets. However, if you prefer to bring your own paddleboard, you are welcome to do so. At the time of booking, simply select this option and you’ll automatically receive a discount.

  • A: Yes, guests are welcome to bring their phone or camera, and we have dry bags available if you need them. But you won’t miss out if you prefer to keep your electronics safe — photos and videos are included with your adventure at no extra cost. Our team captures the highlights of your tour and delivers them to you by email the following day.

Safety & Age Requirements

  • A: Yes. A completed waiver is required for each participant before check-in. Once your reservation is confirmed, you’ll receive a booking confirmation email with a link to complete the waiver online, along with additional instructions.

  • A: Yes. All participants must be confident swimmers, comfortable in and around the water, and in good physical condition. Paddleboarding is a physical activity that requires balance and mobility. While USCG-approved life jackets are provided, being a capable swimmer is essential for your safety and enjoyment.

  • A:

    • Minors under 3 years old → Not permitted.

    • Ages 4–12 → Must ride with a parent/guardian on the same board.

    • Ages 13–17 → May paddle their own board but must remain next to a parent/guardian for the entire tour.

    • All minors under 18 → Must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

    If your child is under 13 but has prior paddleboarding experience, and you as the parent are confident they can paddle independently and safely keep up with the tour, our guide may permit them to have their own board. Final approval is made by the guide on the day of the tour for safety reasons.

  • A: No, pets are not permitted on paddleboards for safety reasons.

Locations & Wildlife

  • A: We’re proud to offer guided paddleboard and kayak hybrid tours at five iconic Florida locations, each with its own unique experience:

    • Lake Conway (Orlando) – A large spring-fed lake with a popular sandbar, wide-open water, and breathtaking sunset tours that showcase the beauty of Florida evenings.

    • Winter Park Chain of Lakes – Paddle through scenic canals, lush landscapes, and historic homes along the subtropical waterways.

    • Rainbow Springs (Dunnellon) – Famous for its crystal-clear water where guests can swim, with two tour options including an extended waterfall hike adventure.

    • Silver Springs (Ocala) – Our most wildlife-rich location, home to manatees during manatee season, as well as monkeys, turtles, fish, and a wide variety of birds.

    • Merritt Island (Space Coast) – A true Florida gem with dolphin and manatee encounters by day and the world-famous bioluminescence tours by night, where the water glows beneath your paddle.

  • A: While we can’t guarantee wildlife sightings since we’re visiting their natural habitat, the chances are excellent at our locations. Guests often see manatees in Silver Springs, dolphins in Merritt Island, playful otters in Rainbow Springs, and a wide variety of turtles, fish, and birds.

    Even when wildlife is less active, simply being on the water—whether it’s a serene spring, scenic canal, glowing bioluminescent lagoon, or a Lake Conway sunset—is an unforgettable Florida experience in itself.

Weather & Seasons

  • A: For the safety of our guests, Otter Paddle Orlando reserves the right to cancel tours in the event of unsafe weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances, or any other reason that may compromise guest safety.

    We do operate in light rain, but if a tour is canceled by Otter Paddle Orlando due to weather or safety concerns, guests will have the option to reschedule their tour or receive a gift card for future use.

    Please note: refunds are not issued in these circumstances.

  • A: Yes! We paddle year-round, and every season in Florida offers something special.

    • During the cooler months, it’s manatee season at Silver Springs, when these gentle giants gather in the warm spring waters.

    • Summer brings warm water adventures and the world-famous bioluminescence tours in Merritt Island, where the water glows beneath your paddle.

    • Spring and fall tours showcase vibrant colors, comfortable weather, and peaceful waterways.

    • Don’t let cooler weather stop you — it’s one of the best times to get out on the water!

    No matter the season, each of our locations is stunning year-round.

Groups, Private Tours & Special Requests

  • A: Yes! We host private paddleboard and kayak hybrid tours, corporate outings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, family adventures, birthdays, and more.

    Whether it’s a special occasion, company event, or just a fun day on the water, we can customize your tour for any get-together or celebration.

Local Info

  • A: Otter Paddle Orlando is a mobile, family-owned and operated company. We don’t have a permanent storefront — instead, we meet you at the correct launch site for your adventure.

    That’s why reservations are required at least one day in advance, so we can prepare your equipment and set everything up for you.

    We’re excited to share the water with you, and we can’t wait to have you join us!

    📍 Serving: Orlando, Winter Park, Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, and Merritt Island
    🌐 Website: www.otterpaddleorlando.com

  • A: You can reach us anytime — we’d love to hear from you!

    📞 Call or text: 407.952.2481
    📧 Email: info@otterpaddleorlando.com
    🌐 Website: www.otterpaddleorlando.com