Paddle and snorkel among the wild turtles

Take a fully guided kayak trip out to see giant turtles in their natural open sea environment. Along the way explore the mangroves, snorkel alongside the reef and have lunch on a pristine, deserted beach.

Our kayak adventure begins at Vai Villas, a unique village based resort in Lotofaga and our base for the day. After a quick practice in the pond in the centre of the resort we paddle down a small mangrove lined stream. Along the way there is time to study the complex mangrove root systems and look out for the many varieties of orchids in this diverse environment.

Reaching the lagoon we paddle out to an area where we normally find a large bale (group) of turtles feeding on the sea grass.  From here we paddle up the lagoon looking out for more turtles before we head into the beach for a snack and rest.  There are often opportunities to snorkel from the kayaks. 

By early afternoon the trade winds are usually picking up a bit and we may have a chance to hoist the kayak sails. Or if the water is still, we will probably see another dozen or so mid size turtles grazing on the sea grass floor of the lagoon.

Arriving back at Vai Villas, there is time for a quick dip in the spring fed pool before a late lunch on the balcony, with its view of daily village life.   

Experience Level

Participants should be confident in the water.  

Lifejackets (PFDs) are supplied and must be worn. No kayak or snorkelling experience is required as this is a fully guided trip.   We use conventional sit-in sea kayaks with spray decks.    

What to bring

• Sunhat, sunscreen and insect repellent
• Kayak clothes – A light top (long sleeved if you are sun sensitive) and shorts/swimwear
• Kayak footwear - reef shoes are nice, jandals are fine, bare feet acceptable
• Swim wear and towel/sarong
• Travel home clothes – if you came over in your kayak clothes
• Camera/phone – in waterproof bag 
• Snacks
• Water bottle

 Resort Pickups

Pickups are  available as follows:

Other resorts on request.

Pickup fees are based on taxi cost - From Apia allow $40 NZD/70 Tala each way for a taxi for up to 4 people.

Equipment

We use new top quality, New Zealand made polyethylene kayaks from Q-Kayaks.  Choose from either Southern Endeavour double kayaks and Shearwater single kayaks.  Spray decks and PFDs (lifejackets) are from Day Two.  Your guide carries full safety gear including tow line, first aide kit, split paddle, PLB and phone/radio. 

Dates

Trips depart every Thursday (or on request for groups).

Tour Inclusions

• Kayak hire
• Snorkel equipment
• Kayak Guide
• Lunch and Afternoon Tea
• Entrance fees/Customary fees
• Transport to/from resort
• Filtered water

Tour Prices (per person)

300 Tala/170NZD

Children 5-11 half price (acceptance of children on trip subject to adequate safety ratios and experience of group).

Price includes pickup and return (normally by 5:30pm)

Credit card (Visa, Mastercard) payments accepted.

To Book

Already in Samoa - call (685)45991 or (685) 7507838

When booking please advise if you would prefer a double or single kayak.

Still planning your trip - email us: info@outdoor.co.nz

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