About
Bioluminescent Kayaking with Bush Tribe Eco Adventures is a one-of-a-kind experience that isn’t available in all parts of the world. It’s only possible due to the presence of certain micro-organisms that live in the waters of Salt River Bay. St. Croix is home to three different varieties of bioluminescent organisms; the comb jellyfish, glow worms and dinoflagellates. The bioluminescence is a part of these organisms’ defense mechanisms, helping them to ward off predators. It’s also there to help the organisms attract mates, and for other reasons that may not yet be known to scientists. Whatever the reason, the existence of these organisms is yet another reason to take advantage of night kayaking with Bush Tribe Eco Adventures.
This is one of those experiences that you will be telling your friends and family about for years. You’ll never forget it. First of all, the very fact that you’re out kayaking at night is a wonder in itself. It’s incredibly calm and serene, it’s impossible to describe with words. We went on a clear night and there were so many stars above, and it was just so quiet. All we could hear was the gentle waves lapping against our kayaks. I felt so at peace and safe, like time had stood still. I also felt very safe. We all had life jackets on, and we stuck together in a group; close but not confining.
Our guide was so incredibly nice and knowledgeable about everything. He told us where to look and where to go, but in a gentle tone that didn’t disrupt the magical feeling of the event. If there’s one thing you do while on St. Croix, this should be the activity that you do. The only caveat I would want to add is that you have to remember this is a nighttime activity. So it’s probably not great for anyone with water fears or fears of the dark or fears of dark water. This isn’t the time to “push” yourself to do something outside of your comfort zone. It’s best for people who are comfortable in kayaks or canoes, because these kinds of boats are very close to the water, and for people who don’t have phobias about dark water or being on the water.
Getting There
Bush Tribe Eco Adventures is on Salt River Bay, which is on the North side of the island, about midway between Christiansted and Frederiksted. It’s about 18 minutes from Christiansted and 26 minutes from Frederiksted. Once you book your adventure online, they’ll give you the details about the meeting point. Just know that getting to their meeting spot is a little tricky. There is a harbor where all the tours meet, but Bush Tribe is just a little bit past the harbor. They have a sign that will direct you to turn right after passing the harbor, so just be on the lookout for that.
Reservations & Cost
You can book your trip online. You’ll be asked to choose a regular kayak or a clear kayak for a little bit more; about $10 extra. I did the clear kayak for $60 and I think it was well worth it. The entire adventure takes about two hours.
What to Expect With Bioluminescent Kayaking
Before you set out, the guide talks you through what to expect and how the tour operates. Then they hand out life jackets for everyone. If you need help adjusting yours, they will help you. Then, you kayak out in a group from the starting point to the area with the bioluminescent organisms, which is about a 20-minute trip one way. If you get tired and fall behind, the tour guide is able to tow you out by attaching your kayak to their kayak. If you need this, by the way, don’t be embarrassed. (Lots of older folks need a little boost and it’s no big deal.) Once you get to the spot, you’re permitted to touch and hold the jellyfish. Note that these aren’t stinging jellyfish like they have in Florida and other parts of the world. Obviously, you should be very careful and gentle, always making slow movements and keeping your voice low, just to keep everything serene for both your group and the little critters.
Finally, it’s important to have a realistic expectation of this activity. The luminescence is a reaction, so they only flash and light when they’re disrupted. For instance, they will light up as you paddle your kayak, but they don't light up the whole area on their own.
Other Tours by Bush Tribe Eco Adventures
Bush Tribe Eco Adventures offers other trips that are well worth checking out, like the Lighthouse Hike, Morning Kayak in Salt River, Hike to the Tide Pools and a Moonlight Kayak Trip that does’t include the bioluminescent area. Happy paddling!