VIRGIN KAYAK TOURS
EST. 1998
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my group be in kayaks together?
When is the best time to see the bioluminescence?
When I am visiting I do not see any Biobay tours offered, why?
Your tours are all full but I want to go out, can I get on a waitlist?
Do you have see-through kayaks?
Do I have to have kayaking experience? Do I need upper body strength to make it across the bay?
What is your cancellation policy?
Do you cancel for bad weather?
Will my group be in kayaks together?
We have both single and tandem kayaks. Generally, we put everyone in tandems, unless your party is an odd number. In that case, one person will go in a single kayak. We do not combine guests with someone outside their party. Occasionally, our guides will assign guests to single kayaks due to weight and comfort in the boats. Please reach out if you have any concerns.
When is the best time to see the bioluminescence?
The Biobay at Salt River National Park and Ecological Preserve is a Super Glow Bio Bay which means bioluminescence is present and can be seen 365 days a year. However, there are so many factors that play a role in the brightness and concentration of the bio, many of which are unpredictable. We do know that ambient light in the sky (generally from the moon) does diminish the effects of the bio. This is why we only offer Biobay tours certain nights throughout the month. So, anytime a Biobay tour is offered, the bio will be visible and less affected by the factors we can predict.
When I am visiting I do not see any Biobay tours offered, why?
Each month, for about 10 days, the moon rises earlier in the evening, and also gets bigger, casting light from the sky which diminishes the effects of the bioluminescence. During this time, we stop offering the Biobay tour, and instead offer our Sunset/Moonlight tour.
Your tours are all full but I want to go out, can I get on a waitlist?
We do not have a waitlist for our tours. However, we welcome anyone to come down to our shop during our check-in window (15 minutes before the tour start) and standby. This way, if another party cancels last minute, or doesn’t show up, you are able to jump in and take their place.
Do you have see-through kayaks?
No, after more than 20 years in the business, we have found the Hobie Mirage drive foot operated kayak to be the most comfortable and efficient way for guests to experience Salt River Bay and Ecological Preserve. The Hobie boats have a higher weight capacity, are studier and easier to paddle regardless of your fitness level due to using the strongest muscle in your body (your legs) to paddle. Click HERE to learn more about the amazing Hobie Mirage Drive
Do I have to have kayaking experience? Do I need upper body strength to make it across the bay?
No!! All of our tours use Hobie Mirage Drive Foot Operated system - the most efficient system in kayaking. This means you are using the strongest muscle in your body to propel your boat, your legs! Hobie has perfected this system, and we promise you’ll love it.
Why do you need my weight?
Each kayak seat has a weight capacity set by the manufacturer. We have also found that heavier guests are more comfortable in single kayaks, so we like to plan ahead for everyone’s comfort and ensure we have the correct boats prepared for you. If we learn you have caused damaged to the equipment due to misrepresentation of your weight, you are subject to covering those repairs.
What is your cancellation policy?
All cancellations or changes to your reservation must be made 24 hours prior to your tour. No refund will be given within 24 hours and any changes are subject to a $15/per person rebooking fee.
Do you cancel for bad weather?
Your safety is our top priority! Occasionally we do need to cancel due to weather, however most Caribbean rain showers are short and do not pose a threat to our tours. The Hobie Mirage Drive Kayaks are easy to use, comfortable and study in all types of weather. In cases of severe inclement weather, a full refund will be provided.
Do we get to swim in the BioBay?
No. We do not allow swimming in the bio bay to help protect and preserve the bioluminescent organisms we are there to see.
Do I have to sign a waiver?
Yes, more information will be sent to you once you book your tour. You click the link provided in your email, or click here to sign before you arrive.