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The Kayak Eco Tour
The original eco tour of the Turks and Caicos, is still our number one trip. Introduced well over 20 years ago, our signature 3-4 hour kayak eco tour is ideal for almost everyone, young or old, big or small. A wonderful blend of education and soft adventure introduces our guests to mangrove ecology, life in the inter tidal zone, iguanas and much more. Offered daily.
Price $145 / $105 under 12’s
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Kayak Snorkel Adventure
Back by popular demand. The best of both worlds. Paddling in the mangroves and snorkeling across the reefs. This full day boat and kayak trip is the only one of its kind. We head off early to spend one half of the day on the water and the other half of the day in the water. Lunch on a beautiful beach divides the day. Get your greens and your blues.
Price $275 / $225 under 12’s
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Private Adventures
Frenchman’s Creek & Chalk Sound Eco Tours
Explore southwest Provo’s remote wetland haven to see marine and birdlife or kayak/sail across the turquoise waters of Chalk Sound. Both 6hr trips are conducted for small private groups and include a picnic lunch on the beach.
Wilderness Adventures
Travel by boat to the wild wetlands along the southern coast of North Caicos. Explore this incredible labyrinth by kayak or paddleboard and enjoy the solitude, adventure and birdlife.
Sunrise & Sunset Tours
Early risers can enjoy the serenity of pre-dawn and sunrise as the Princess Alexandra nature reserve comes to life or wait until late afternoon to absorb the ambiance and light of a sunset Kayak paddle. Monthly full-moon Kayak tours take in sunset, moon rise and night time return.
Note: ALL OUR ECOTOURS can be conducted privately
Experience
We started using kayaks on our educational Big Blue eco-tours back in 1998 so that we could access the shallow mangrove channels opposite our Leeward base on Providenciales. We realized right away that this was the transport of choice; shallow draft, quiet, pollution free and good exercise. The stealth of the kayak allows paddlers to view wildlife and reach areas that are just not accessible by boat or land.
Simply put, we were hooked and have not looked back. We have been exploring across the entire Caicos archipelago and studying paddle routes and eco-systems ever since. The scope of our kayak program and the knowledge of our guides, translates into unprecedented opportunities and experiences for our guests.
5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands
1. We are the definitive kayak experts of the Turks and Caicos Islands and from our base in Leeward, Providenciales, we offer our award winning guided Kayak Ecotour (daily), self-guided trips and rentals.
5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands
2. Vast, little known areas of the Turks and Caicos are wetland habitats or remote cays and beaches that are only accessible by a shallow draft vessel. Kayaking offers an opportunity to explore these inspiring wilderness regions rich in bird and marine life.
5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands
3. We guide and lead extended kayak adventures to North, Middle, East and South Caicos. Our kayak and snorkel adventure across Chalk Sound National Park and into Silly Creek on Providenciales should not be missed.
5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands
4. We have kayaks to suit all ages and experience levels: Touring kayaks are available for those who want to go faster and explore further. Tandem recreational kayaks are the most user-friendly with an efficient design and ample space. Some have rudders to assist with steering and we can include a small ‘jump seat’ in the middle for toddlers. Safe and virtually indestructible sit-on-top kayaks, both single and tandem, are available for rent and can be delivered to your door for use in front of your private villa or hotel. Just ask. We are here to help.
5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands
5. Our first class rental fleet offers convenient options for anyone wishing to paddle out and explore on their own. With a big variety of kayaks available, all our kayaks are racked conveniently right next to our ramp, the gateway to Mangrove, Donna, Water Cay and beyond. Hourly, half day, full day options. We deliver for mutli-day use as well. Call or email us.
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5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands1. We are the definitive kayak experts of the Turks and Caicos Islands and from our base in Leeward, Providenciales, we offer our award winning guided Kayak Ecotour (daily), self-guided trips and rentals.
- 2
-
5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands2. Vast, little known areas of the Turks and Caicos are wetland habitats or remote cays and beaches that are only accessible by a shallow draft vessel. Kayaking offers an opportunity to explore these inspiring wilderness regions rich in bird and marine life.
- 3
-
5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands3. We guide and lead extended kayak adventures to North, Middle, East and South Caicos. Our kayak and snorkel adventure across Chalk Sound National Park and into Silly Creek on Providenciales should not be missed.
- 4
-
5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands4. We have kayaks to suit all ages and experience levels: Touring kayaks are available for those who want to go faster and explore further. Tandem recreational kayaks are the most user-friendly with an efficient design and ample space. Some have rudders to assist with steering and we can include a small ‘jump seat’ in the middle for toddlers. Safe and virtually indestructible sit-on-top kayaks, both single and tandem, are available for rent and can be delivered to your door for use in front of your private villa or hotel. Just ask. We are here to help.
- 5
-
5 things to know about Kayaking
in the Turks and Caicos Islands5. Our first class rental fleet offers convenient options for anyone wishing to paddle out and explore on their own. With a big variety of kayaks available, all our kayaks are racked conveniently right next to our ramp, the gateway to Mangrove, Donna, Water Cay and beyond. Hourly, half day, full day options. We deliver for mutli-day use as well. Call or email us.
Our Guides are First Class Professionals
Knowledge, patience and understanding are key components of our instructor / guide team. We are constantly training and learning to be the best we can be both as educators in marine ecology as well as Kayak guides.
Small Groups
We aim to max our groups to 8 per trip or 8:1 guest to guide ratio. Very often that means sharing kayaks to minimize the footprint and help split the effort.
What You Will See
Most of the guided kayaking tours explore areas that are shallow and protected from the wind and waves. It is in these areas that a variety of bird and marine life is best observed and workload is minimized.
The opportunity to observe juvenile marine life is exceptional. Highlights are undoubtedly the small baby sharks and turtles that also utilize the shelter of the shallows. Guides will point out small barracuda, puffer fish, bonefish, snapper, damselfish and mojarra. Sedentary marine life includes queen conch, starfish and the mangrove upside down jellyfish. Learn how the mangrove communities are such a vital part of the overall eco-system.
Birds in the heron and sandpiper families are the most common including the green heron, reddish egret and whimbrels. We also see pelicans, osprey, oystercatchers, terns, and kingbirds and on occasion, pink flamingos. One of the highlights of the 4-Hour Kayak Eco-Tour is visiting the Iguana Sanctuary on Little Water Cay, managed by the Turks and Caicos National Trust and the entrance fee is included in the price of the eco-tour. The iguanas roam the island and a raised walkway provides a short stroll through part of their territory.
Accessing the Playground
Big Blue Collective HQ is in the middle of the Leeward Channel on Providenciales and adjacent to the sheltered waters and beautiful beaches of the Princess Alexandra Nature Reserve and National Park. Guided kayak eco-tours and self-guided trips depart straight from the convenient boat ramp at this property. Using boats and trailers; Big Blue will also transport its kayaks almost anywhere across the archipelago.
Visitors can utilize Big Blue’s expertise to explore off the beaten path into the wilderness of the remote cays, mangroves and tidal creeks. Both small group and private adventures are available and often combined with snorkeling and beach combing to maximize the experience.
Environmental Etiquette
Big Blue advocates minimal impact to the environment and our tour briefings will keep you informed on how to do this. Above all we paddle with care, keep noise to a minimum and do not remove anything from the National Parks. We also insist on the use of biodegradable sun cream to protect the quality of the water.
Prior Experience
The beauty about kayaking is that you do not really need any prior experience. Young or old, you can enjoy this wonderful activity. If you are not sure just ask us. There is a good reason why kayaking has been our most popular tour for over 20 years.
Protect Yourself
The sun in the Turks and Caicos is merciless. The cooling breeze can disguise its effects and even when there is cloud cover it is important to protect oneself against sunburn and dehydration.
Rentals
Self – Guided tours
Single and Tandem kayaks are available to rent at the Big Blue base for self-guided tours of the Princess Alexandra Nature Reserve. Safety briefings, orientation, maps and dry bags provided.
PLEASE NOTE. NO RESERVATIONS are taken. Please call in on the day for times, conditions and availability. NB During peak seasons (eg Christmas/ Spring Break – demand is often greater than availability. We’ll do our best but guided tours take priority)
Long Term Rentals
Kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent at your villa or hotel with delivery provided.
Limited availability. Please book in advance.
Multi – day Expeditions
Recreational and touring kayaks are available for multi-day use across the Caicos Islands. Camping and Inn-to-Inn options available. Please contact us for more information.
Gear
Big Blue Collective has the largest and most comprehensive kayak fleet in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
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Recreational single and tandem Necky and Old Town kayaks (12-14ft): used for guided and self-guided tours
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Sit-on-top single and tandem Ocean Kayaks (11-13ft) for villa rental and self-guide tours
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Touring single and tandem Necky and Sea Valley kayaks (17-18ft) for long-distance kayaking and multi-day expeditions
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Werner Skagit carbon fiber paddles: light and strong
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APF universal fit youth and adult lifejackets plus a selection of child and toddles life jackets
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Pumps, dry bags, tow ropes, skirts.
What to bring and what to wear
Necky
Neckies protect your neck and face from the sun. We sell these products on site
Shoes
Bring shoes (preferably sandals) for exploring the shoreline and walking on the iguana sanctuary walkway.
Rashguards
Excellent sun protection, more reliable than sunscreen as you don’t have to reapply. We sell these
Sun screen
highly recommended but it must be 100% bio degradeable. We do sell an excellent variety
Hat
A hat is always a good idea when on the ocean
Sunglasses
sunglasses are also very useful in the tropical glare
Water
Drink lots and stay hydrated. We provide water
Camera
Is of course a great way to capture the magic. Gopros rock!
- Jamie F
My family and I (my wife, my daughter and her fiancé, my other daughter, my mother (76) and myself) charted a 30ft Power cat for a full day on Christmas.... read more
1/01/2020Lbp1129 Our family of 10 with kids ages 15-3 did a 1/2 day charter with Colin and Jake. It was a first class experience from the start. From the... read more
12/27/2019Daveydoggg Really glad you had a great time exploring the reefs and islands with Lee and Cole.
Two very knowledgeable and experienced guides.
Thank you so much for writing the review.
12/26/2019 - rogermontrealcanada Had the privilege to spend time with the kitesurfing team and these guys are great.
Kudo to Christopher for making my kite days better !!!
12/26/2019wwfrench Excellent snorkeling , professional crew, wonderful day of cruising and snorkeling ! Collin was the best snorkeling guide and JC was fantastic also. The boat was big enough for the... read more
12/24/2019Mike W We were looking for a snorkel tour as opposed to a boat that had snorkeling and boozing. This was the perfect trip for us. On... read more
12/24/2019 - I5508ADD I was not very happy with my experience. The weather was not good for paddle boarding, which of course I totally understand, but instead of calling me and telling me... read more
12/24/2019sherih363 Guides Ricco and and Aisha were attentive and excellent at pointing out wildlife in the clear shallow waters along the mangroves. We saw sea turtles, young lemon sharks sting rays... read more
12/21/2019tec660 Fantastic day of snorkeling. The best snorkeling I've done in TC islands over the 5 times ive been there. This is the second trip I went out with... read more
12/20/2019 - 407fayef This was probably the best Caribbean excursion I've done. Ricco was the BEST - very sharp eyes, was great at pointing wildlife out and checking in on every kayaker. Would... read more
12/17/2019370allied My husband and I just got back from our Cay cruise and it was AMAZING!!! The staff was so friendly and helpful and our captain Collin was fantastic! Will for... read more
12/17/2019bethanywilladsen We have done the Caicos Cays Cruise three times in the past 4 years. Each cruise gets better and better. This most recent time was by far the best!... read more
12/17/2019 - Elizabeth D Definitely recommend this tour.. the reef, fish and scenery were unmatched !! We will be doing this one again in our next trip!
12/15/2019theadmiral1 We did the mangrove and iguana island eco tour. This was probably the best tour we have ever taken. We were beginner kayakers but our guide Ricco was the... read more
12/15/2019Rvingfrombaja Beautiful! Rico was great! Very knowledgeable and informative. Turtles, sharks, Rays, jelly fish and iguanas! Thanks for a great day!!!
12/14/2019 - lisa z We went on the Caicos Cays boat tour and I have to say this was the best snorkeling/boat tour I've ever been on, and I have been on many such... read more
12/12/2019happiholiday We rented a tandem kayak twice during our stay. Took ourselves over to Iguana Island and to the mangroves. The staff were friendly, equipment in good condition and we... read more
12/10/2019dandytime You need reservations for this so call or email ahead of time. Also note that this is an early morning activity during high tide. Mangroves are beautiful and crawling with... read more
12/10/2019
