Clear expectations before you book
These policies protect our guests, equipment, wildlife, and the river while keeping the booking process straightforward.
Guided tours must be reserved online. Clear kayak rentals are available by phone only, so call (352) 973-1711 to check availability and reserve your kayak. Arrive 20–30 minutes early with identification and a completed waiver. Walk-up bookings are not permitted.
Reservations cancelled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time are nonrefundable, but the reservation may be rescheduled once when availability allows. Reservations made for the same day are nonrefundable but may also be rescheduled once. After a late cancellation or same day reservation has been rescheduled, it remains nonrefundable. Exceptional circumstances may be reviewed individually. If Explore Silver Springs cancels because of unsafe weather or another unforeseen condition, guests may reschedule or receive a full refund. Guests who do not arrive are not eligible for a refund or rescheduling.
We follow park weather holds and do not send guests onto the river in unsafe conditions. Every vessel must carry one United States Coast Guard approved wearable life vest for each rider. As an Explore Silver Springs safety policy, riders under age 16 must wear their life vest for the entire tour or rental. Riders must follow guide and park instructions and remain aware of other vessels.
Pets are not permitted on our tours or rentals. Trained service animals are welcome when they are able to remain safely seated and under their handler's control for the entire experience. Silver Springs is home to alligators and other wild animals, so this policy helps protect the service animal, its handler, and everyone on the water. Please contact us before booking if you plan to bring a service animal so we can discuss the safest arrangements.
Never touch, feed, chase, or crowd wildlife. Rental guests are responsible for damage or lost equipment at replacement cost. Clear tandem kayaks hold up to 425 pounds combined, with no single rider over 250 pounds.
Explore Silver Springs
Plan your time on the Silver River with clear information, reliable equipment, and a local outfitter who knows this river.