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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
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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. NB. NO reservations are taken please call in on the day for times, conditions and availability.
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!
- Theresa A
Six of us went out with Lee and Annabelle and had a fabulous adventure! We went snorkeling around the reef, got off at a small cay to walk around and... read more
11/16/2019Jonsimon55 We went with two couples, and this was a great part of the trip to Provo. Lee and the other guides were very knowledgeable and educated us all.... read more
11/09/2019Agjdh3 This was easily the best snorkling trip my wife and I have ever been on. Colin and Annabel were great instructors and I would request them on my next trip.... read more
11/08/2019 - 1991lmaradona Had a fantastic time touring the mangroves with Robert. You get to see little sharks, so many turtles, fish, and birds. I would recommend trying to use the paddleboards since... read more
11/08/2019H3363WIsaml We went out on the SUP tour through the mangroves. This really was amazing we were complete beginners and after a few simple instructions before we set off we were... read more
11/07/2019Karen W This company was booked through island routes which is an umbrella company owned by beaches. They were forty minutes late to pick us up. Never called or apologized The... read more
11/05/2019 - weege1168 They where late to pick us up (in old mini van) dangerous. Then they cancelled our paddle board trip. Then tried to push kayak trip on us.... read more
11/05/2019porterc74 I highly recommend this tour with this company. They worked the entire time to make sure that we were comfortable and having fun. It is a fairly snorkel intensive trip... read more
11/05/2019James T We were in Providenciales for 5 days (Oct. 28 - Nov. 2) celebrating my wife's 60th birthday with our kids and their spouses. We decided to do the Caicos... read more
11/05/2019 - lynnhoops Big Blue delivered big time on this kayaking tour! Rico was a fabulous guide: knowledgeable about the wildlife, as well as kayaking safety. The trip was full of turtles, pufferfish,... read more
10/28/2019Asgood63 The slightly higher price is worth it. Our guides took the time to show us things in the water that others in Provo didn’t.
10/22/2019Atumbleson My sister and I booked this four hour cruise as part of our annual sister’s trip. We stayed on Providenciales for a week, and this was one of the... read more
10/22/2019 - apps12 Went snorkling with my 7 year old son and se loved it. Tom was super nice and kind to us, as well as the rest of the crew. We got... read more
10/21/2019tntsullivan Just returned from a lovely afternoon kayaking with my daughter. Enjoyed being with a small group (2 kayaks and a guide) with a company that cared about the ecosystem. Rico... read more
10/20/2019Salisha B Tom and Brent was fantastic. Friendly and knowledgeable. We saw a dolphin, turtle and nurse sharks on the reef.
10/18/2019 - tomsiner My wife & I rode a double kayak through the mangroves. We wanted to get out very early in the morning so the team actually took us through the... read more
10/05/2019Christine D This is our third time with Big Blue. They are the only group we tour with at T+C. Not only are they true to their eco ethics - they have... read more
10/04/2019Nathan B Had a really great experience with Big Blue. Our guide Duncan was great. Saw some really cool wildlife in the mangroves....baby sharks, sea turtles,etc...Then went to half moon... read more
10/03/2019
