Crystal River offers a wonderful paddling experience, where you can encounter manatees in their natural habitat. We will explore the Kings Bay area for a day or more at a relaxed pace, enjoying the scenic views and wildlife. This paddling trip is part of the cruising group's boating adventure to Crystal River.   You can choose to paddle for one or more days, depending on your availability and preference. 

LOCATION:  

• Boat ramp at Kings Bay Park.  268 NW 3rd St. Crystal River.

DIRECTIONS:  

• Drive North on US 19 for about 40 miles.  
• Turn left on NE 3rd St. and go to the end (about .6 miles).   
• Driving time is about 1:45. 
• There is a paved parking lot, a launch ramp, and a bathroom.  
• The fee to launch is $5 and the fee to park is $5. 

RENTALS:  

• Three providers are contracted with the city to launch at Kings Bay park:

• • Paddles Outdoor - 352-586-5259
  • Hunter Springs Kayak - 352-228-4715
  • Get Up and Go - 352-834-1556

REGISTRATION:  

Please register for the event by clicking on the Blue Register Button so that we have an approximate headcount. 

PADDLING GROUP TEXT MESSAGING and ADDITIONAL INFO:  

• Please join the Group Me DBC Paddling Group discussions, where we will share more details about the event. I would like to know which days you are attending, and whether you are staying overnight. 

• We will also arrange a group dinner/late lunch at some Crystal River restaurants on a few nights. 

• Some people have indicated that they want to stay overnight and are curious if others do too. If not already signed up; directions for Group Me can be found here. Dunedin Boat Club - Paddling Group - Group Me Communication. 

• For those who want to bring power boats:  Pete's Pier with slips and fuel is nearby.

• We plan to have a group late lunch/early dinner at a restaurant on the water at 3 on May 1 and 2.  

WHAT TO BRING:  

• life jacket and whistle

• beverage, lunch 

• sunscreen (hopefully not needed)
• anything else for a fun trip

HOTELS:  

There are several hotels in the Crystal River area.  If you are staying overnight and need a hotel room, please contact the hotel directly.  These are a few: 

• Hampton Inn - 352-564-6464
• Holiday Inn Express - 352-563-1111
• Plantation Resort - 352-745-4211
• Kings Bay Lodge - 352-795-2850
• Best Western - 352-795-3171

Janet Shellenberger

Kayak Chair

727-515-8372