NIGHT KAYAKING AMONG THE SEA OF STARS
Do you ever wonder how it feels to cruise along glowing waters? Hop on a kayak at night in the Bay of Islands and paddle away under the stars. There are only a few places in the world where you get to experience water bioluminescence — and that includes the Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
This natural phenomenon is called water phosphorescence or bioluminescent tides. The tides shine quietly and eerily in the dark.
WHAT IS WATER PHOSPHORESCENCE?
Water Phosphorescence (or water bioluminescence) is the production and emission of light by living organisms in marine life. At a glance, water bioluminescence resembles a sea of stars suspended in it.
This phosphorescence is usually made possible by algae suspended in water. A wide variety of algae emit a certain glow when they are disturbed — sometimes caused by tides, other times by boats in the water or by moving fish.
Water phosphorescence is also caused by marine plankton, also called marine fireflies. The plankton emits a glowing light when stressed — used to evade predators as a defence mechanism. In very calm, deep waters, the glowing lights are visible when manually triggered. While on the beaches, the glow can be seen when waves break on the shore.
During night kayaking on the Bay of Islands, the kayak and paddles can glow an iridescent green — caused by millions of tiny Sea Glow Worms. Kayaking during the evening gives you a whole new perspective.
Always take safety measures and stick with the group. Our crew will guide you at all times when you are out in the water.