Last updated on September 22nd, 2023 at 08:04 pm
I learned some valuable lessons during my kayaking trip down the Weeki Wachee River today. First let me just say that this is a nice calm ride. You can practically just float downstream, and just use your oar to steer periodically. Still, folks who know me will not be surprised to learn than I managed to flip my kayak. This was about 10 minutes after posting a Facebook Live video teasing my husband for having to work, while I was out having fun. I guess you could say it was Karma.
Knowing that I am a bit of a klutz, I purchased a new waterproof iPhone bag and a 10L dry bag for my digital camera, lunch, and towel. However, in order for the gear to work properly, it has to be used properly, and that leads me to the lessons of the day:
- A waterproof iPhone bag isn’t much good if it’s not secured to your body. I had this clever little bag that is clear so you can take pictures without removing the phone from the bag. It even comes with a neck strap. The problem was that the strap was too short and it was awkward trying to take video, so I took it off. That was a very bad move and when the kayak flipped, I lost the phone.
- A dry bag can’t keep your things dry if it is open. The dry bag was the perfect size to fit my digital camera, lunch, and towel. As I was slowly floating down the river, I decided to take out my camera and take photos of some of the birds in the trees. When I was finished taking the photos, I promptly put the camera back in a dry bag. Unfortunately, I failed to secure the top and I flipped the kayak, the bag filled with water.
- Don’t let a mishap ruin the adventure. Things can be replaced.
After a good thirty minutes of searching for the phone and beating myself up over my dumb mistakes, I realized that the damage was done. While I was pretty disappointed in myself, I decided to let it go and try to enjoy the last 3.5 miles of my kayak trip. It helps that I have a super understanding husband who I knew would laugh with me and not give me too much grief over my mistakes.
How to Kayak on the Weeki Wachee River
If you are interested in kayaking on the river, you can either rent a kayak or bring your own. Regardless of which option you choose, the rental companies also provide a shuttle service so you can easily return to your vehicle after your excursion.
If you are bringing your own kayak, you may want to invest in a kayak cart as there is no parking near the launch point. Choose from one of these kayak carts to make simple work of getting yours to and from your vehicle.
More Freshwater Springs
Once you’ve visited Weeki Wachee, you’re going to want to see some of the other fabulous freshwater springs in Florida. Each is unique, with its own special way of showcasing the state’s beauty. Click here to read our article about the freshwater springs we’ve visited so far. Hint: Rainbow Springs State Parks has gorgeous water AND the some of best full hook-up camping we’ve seen in a Florida State Park.
