Florida Ten Thousand Islands & Everglades Sea Kayak Skills Expedition

Trip Highlights

Master Expedition Kayaking While Exploring One of the Wildest Places in America

Imagine gliding through a maze of emerald mangroves, a salty breeze brushing your face as the steady rhythm of your paddle blends with the calls of ospreys overhead. By day, you’ll feel the sun warming your shoulders while dolphins surface nearby, fish splash alongside your kayak, and the fresh Gulf air fills your lungs. Along the way, you’ll build real expedition skills—learning smoother paddle strokes, better boat control, navigation, and practical techniques that make you feel stronger and more confident on the water. At camp, sink your toes into soft, shell-strewn sand, share stories over hearty fireside meals, and enjoy the crackle of flames and easy laughter. As night falls, cool air and the scent of sea grass surround you beneath a sky bursting with stars. Throughout the journey, you’ll feel both exhilarated and at ease—gaining confidence with every mile, delighting in close wildlife encounters, and savoring the rare joy of slowing down and truly connecting with nature.

At A Glance

 Feb 15th - Feb 20th, 2026  Equipment available as add-on
 Group classes included  Shuttle included
 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners, snacks and beverages included

Itinerary

We meet at 9:30 a.m. at Collier-Seminole State Park to pack kayaks, review expedition gear, and launch into the mangrove-lined backcountry of the Ten Thousand Islands. By late afternoon we reach Romano and set up camp on a shell-covered Gulf island. The evening unfolds with a chef-inspired gourmet dinner enjoyed barefoot on the beach as the sun melts into the horizon. (Lunch & dinner included · 7 miles)

Today we paddle deeper into the Everglades wilderness, crossing open bays and weaving through tidal channels shaped by wind and water. Camp near the Panther area places us amid layers of Calusa history and wild coastal beauty. Along the way, we practice reading water, wind, and tides—turning the day into a hands-on lesson in real-world expedition decision-making. (All meals included · 11 miles)

A shorter paddling day allows us to slow down, refine boat control, and explore narrow mangrove creeks and quiet shorelines. We make camp on Picnic Island or nearby Tiger Island, leaving time for beach walks, wildlife viewing, and relaxation. As evening settles in, another elevated backcountry meal turns camp into a floating coastal kitchen under the stars. (All meals included · 6 miles)

With unloaded kayaks, we enjoy a full day dedicated to skill development, side trips, navigation practice, and rescue techniques, paired with a leisurely picnic-style gourmet lunch. As darkness falls, we head out for a magical night paddle—guided by stars, chart and compass, and often the glow of bioluminescent waters. This day is a favorite for many guests, blending confidence-building skills with a deep sense of freedom and connection to the environment. (All meals included)

Guided by tides, weather, and group decisions, we tackle one of the longer paddling days, crossing expansive bays and tracing mangrove shorelines. Camp at Pavilion offers wide-open views and a final night immersed in Everglades solitude. A celebratory gourmet dinner brings stories, laughter, and reflection on how far the group has come together. (All meals included · 11 miles)

Depending on conditions, we may paddle at first light beneath a glowing Everglades sunrise or enjoy a relaxed final morning before our last crossing. We aim to arrive at the Everglades National Park Visitor Center by 1:00 p.m., wrapping up by 2:00 p.m. with gear care, goodbyes, and optional airport shuttle connections. Guests depart with sharpened skills, deep memories, and a profound sense of accomplishment. (Breakfast & lunch included · 10 miles)

 

Tour info

Duration
6 days
Group Size
4 to 10
Price starts at
$1,400
Languages
English, German
Meeting Point

20200 Tamiami Trl E Naples FL

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Dropoff location

20200 Tamiami Trl E Naples FL

Why Venture Outdoors

🧭 Expert ACA-Certified Guides
You’ll paddle with seasoned coastal instructors who know these waters inside and out. Their guidance ensures you not only feel safe but also leave with new skills and confidence in your kayaking.

🏕️ Expedition Skills Training
You’ll learn how to pack, navigate, and paddle like an adventurer. These are tools you can carry into any future kayaking trip, empowering you to explore further on your own.

👥 Small Group Setting
With just 4–10 guests, you’ll never feel lost in the crowd. You’ll enjoy personalized instruction, authentic conversations, and a close-knit camaraderie with fellow adventurers.

🍲 All-Inclusive Simplicity
Your meals, gear, and logistics are all taken care of. You can focus entirely on paddling, learning, and soaking up every moment of your adventure.

🦅 Wildlife Up Close
From playful dolphins to swooping ospreys, you’ll witness wildlife most people only see in documentaries. You’ll feel a deeper appreciation for Florida’s unique ecosystems and their importance.

 

Why This Trip Is Different

This is not just a guided kayak tour—it’s a collaborative expedition where guests actively participate in route planning, decision-making, and skill development. You’ll paddle remote waters few ever see, sleep on wild island beaches, and enjoy thoughtfully prepared gourmet meals that elevate backcountry living. With expert instruction, small-group teamwork, and the freedom to adapt to nature, this journey delivers confidence, connection, and a true sense of exploration that lasts long after the final paddle stroke.

 

Book With Confidence

The Lowest Price. Period.

Book directly with VentureOutdoorsFlorida.com or call our office to get the best price on our tours and rentals. Find it cheaper? We'll refund the difference!

Flexible Cancellations

Plans change? No worries! We have a flexible cancellation policy.

Pay Over Time

Adventure now, pay over time. We offer installment payment options at checkout so you can reserve your spot today and spread the cost into manageable payments—no stress, no surprises.

 

A Brand You Can Trust

A brand you can trust

Included

  • Meals (5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners, snacks and beverages)

  • Camping Permits

  • Group Equipment (kitchen, bathroom & group shelter)

  • Safety Equipment (first aid, communications and signals, navigation, and repairs)

  • Photo Package (digital file)

  • Guided Instruction (ACA-certified kayak and camping skills development)

  • ACA Course Credit (skills training or assessment credit reported online for ACA members)

  • Pre-trip Support (support with packing and logistics leading up to the trip)

Excluded

  • Kayak Equipment (full outfitting available as an add-on)

  • Camping Equipment (full outfitting available as an add-on)

  • Airfare/Transportation (shuttle to/from the Fort Myers airport is available and included)

  • Trip Insurance (recommendations provided in your welcome packet)

  • Booking and Card Fees (3% credit card fee can be avoided using ACH at checkout. WeTravel's 2% booking fee is added at checkout.)

  • Gratuities for Guides (never expected, always appreciated)

Frequently asked questions

Florida weather can be unpredictable, but we watch it closely. Light rain? We paddle. Severe weather? We adjust safely. Comfort and safety always come first.
Kayak equipment is available as an add-on. Gear included are kayak, paddle, and PFD.
Camping kit is available as add-on. Our standard camping kit includes a tent, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag. We also provide compact gear organizers, a personal eating kit (bowl, cup, utensils). Just let us know what you need—we’ve got you covered!
We offer a 5% discount as a thank you to our military veterans, first responders and teachers, and for supporting members of Florida Paddling Trails Association. Email astrid@ventureoutdoorsflorida.com to receive your code for checkout.
This tour was designed with folks like you in mind! We keep group sizes small and the pace comfortable. You’ll have plenty of support and time to soak it all in.
Our kayaks do have weight limits, but we have a variety of sizes and capacities. Just reach out to us—we’ll make sure you’re matched with the right gear for a safe, comfortable paddle.
You’ll be led by Astrid Jackson, owner of Venture Outdoors and Anthony Sousa owner of KayakAnt—both certified Level 4 Coastal Kayak Instructors with years of experience. You’re in expert, friendly hands the entire trip.
You’ll be in true Florida wilderness—peaceful and unplugged—but we do have access to help if needed. Safety ise always covered.
We are often asked, whether it is appropriate to tip the Trip Leaders and what a reasonable amount might be. While we have considered including such gratuities in the overall trip cost, we always come back to the belief that recognizing excellent service is a personal matter. If you feel your Trip Leaders have provided an exceptional trip experience, gratuities are encouraged—and welcomed—at the end of the trip. A typical gratuity on a 6-day Sea Kayking Paddling Trip is 10-20% of your tour cost per guest. The gratuity is then divided among your Trip Leaders.

Things to know

Partnership Highlight

This expedition is brought to you through a special collaboration between Venture Outdoors and KayakAnt. We’re thrilled to have Anthony Sousa, founder of KayakAnt and seasoned expedition leader, joining our guide team. Anthony’s deep expertise in multi-day sea kayak expeditions and passion for s

...

This expedition is brought to you through a special collaboration between Venture Outdoors and KayakAnt. We’re thrilled to have Anthony Sousa, founder of KayakAnt and seasoned expedition leader, joining our guide team. Anthony’s deep expertise in multi-day sea kayak expeditions and passion for sharing the wild beauty of the Everglades make him an invaluable part of this adventure. Together, we’re committed to delivering a safe, educational, and unforgettable paddling experience.

Trip Insurance Recommendation

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive trip insurance for this multi-day expedition. While we prioritize safety and preparedness on every tour, the Everglades is a remote wilderness area, and unforeseen circumstances—such as medical emergencies, personal injury, or the need for early evacu

...

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive trip insurance for this multi-day expedition. While we prioritize safety and preparedness on every tour, the Everglades is a remote wilderness area, and unforeseen circumstances—such as medical emergencies, personal injury, or the need for early evacuation—can arise. Having travel insurance can help cover the costs of emergency transportation, trip interruption, and other unexpected events, giving you peace of mind so you can fully enjoy your adventure.

Easy Installment Payments

We offer installment payment options on eligible bookings, allowing you to secure your tour now and pay over time with flexible, transparent payments.

We offer installment payment options on eligible bookings, allowing you to secure your tour now and pay over time with flexible, transparent payments.

Discounts

Email astrid@ventureoutdoorsflorida.com to receive your code for checkout. We offer a 5% discount as a thank you to our military veterans, first responders and teachers, and for suppor

...

Email astrid@ventureoutdoorsflorida.com to receive your code for checkout. We offer a 5% discount as a thank you to our military veterans, first responders and teachers, and for supporting members of Florida Paddling Trails Association.

Cancellation Policy

Flexible cancellation policy: Read the full details here.

Flexible cancellation policy: Read the full details here.

Check Availability

From $1,400

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At A Glance

 Oct 11th - Oct 17th, 2026  Equipment available as add-on
 Group classes included  Shuttle included
 6 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners, snacks and beverages included