2022 Trip Dates:
March 18-20
April 15-17
October 7-9
$875/person – 50% non-refundable deposit due at the time of booking
Francis Marion National Forest, Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge and the Santee Delta are some of the most spectacular wilderness ecosystems in the world, taking you from inky blackwater swamps into the saltwater estuary. Paddle these creeks and rivers into the ocean while taking in the iconic Lowcountry landscape. Towering bald cypresses, wildflowers, otters and owls dominate the freshwater portion of the trip. Watch for curious bottlenose dolphins as they pop up nearby on our paddle to Bulls Island. It’s an incredible opportunity to get to know these wild and federally-protected habitats in an unforgettable way.
Day 1: Echaw Creeek to McConnell Landing in Francis Marion National Forest
Day 2: Santee River to Wambaw Creek, with a stop at Hampton Plantation
Day 3: Kayak through Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge to Bulls Island to hike the beach and maritime forest
Itinerary Highlights:
• Sunrise on the Santee
• Red-cockaded Woodpecker Hike in a Longleaf Pine ecosystem
• Paddling under ancient bald cypresses with giant trunks
• Picnic and hike at Hampton Plantation
• Wildlife opportunities including bottlenose dolphin, American alligator, raptors, otters, turtles, pelicans and more
• Camping in the National Forest with experienced guides
• Blackwater, brackish and saltwater ecosystems
Things to Know
INCLUDES
Tents, sea kayaks (and related gear), transportation (by van and ferry), meals & snacks, guide service
NOT INCLUDED
Personal items, extra snacks, guide gratuity
AGE MINIMUM
This trip is designed for adults, but we welcome teenagers 16 and older with a parent.
COVID SAFTEY
Coastal Expeditions guides and clients are expected to be fully vaccinated to join this trip.
WHAT TO BRING
You will be provided a checklist of things to pack once you’ve booked. You’ll definitely need a sleeping bag, but you should be able to pack for this with gear and clothing that you already own.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
No prior kayaking experience is needed (we’ll teach you what you need to know), but it will require some endurance. We’ve timed the paddling with the tides to make the experience enjoyable, but we’ll be doing a combination of paddling+hiking between 5-10 miles/day.
WEATHER
Weather (thunderstorms or high winds) may impact this excursion. Cancellations usually occur due to lightning, thunder or high winds and we will make sure to reschedule your group if needed. Our general cancellation policies apply unless our experts determine it is potentially unsafe or unwise to venture out. In the event that we decide to cancel due to weather, we will make every effort to call you at least two hours before your departure and help you reschedule or credit/refund the full cost of your trip.
ABOUT YOUR GUIDES
Our expert guides are safety-trained in ACA kayaking, first aid, CPR and life guarding every year. As the local guide service for adventure companies like Backroads International, REI Adventures, Road Scholars and other groups, we’re prepared to create experiences that are rich in history and wildlife, while providing the skills needed for a fun camping/kayaking expedition in the Lowcounty.
GRATUITY
Gratuity is not included in your tour price. Our guides go above and beyond to make sure you have a fantastic time out on the water! Average gratuity ranges from 15%–25% of your tour cost based on your experience. It is not required, but always greatly appreciated!
NEED TO CANCEL?
There is a 50% non-refundable deposit due at the time of booking. 30-days notice is required to not be charged the final payment if you need to cancel your reservation.