Paddle for a Purpose: Celebrating 10 Years of Triumph and the Tavares Kayakathon

As we stand on the shores of this milestone anniversary, reflecting on a decade of overcoming adversity and embracing new horizons, we extend a heartfelt invitation to you. Join us as we paddle not just for recreation, but as a symbol of our resilience and collective strength. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the waters, there’s a place for you in our journey. Together, let’s honor the trials and triumphs that have shaped us, and embrace the spirit of adventure that defines us as a company. We invite you to navigate life’s currents, celebrate our victories, and forge unforgettable memories along the way. This is more than just a kayak excursion; it’s an invitation to join us on a journey of resilience, hope, and endless possibility.

Travis’s Decade of Triumph

This year on April 16th, 2024 my husband Travis commemorates a decade since his successful bone marrow transplant. I stand in awe of the journey he has traversed. Ten years ago, he faced the daunting challenge of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) with unwavering courage and resilience. Against all odds, he emerged victorious, his spirit unbroken by the troubled seas of illness. The milestone of this ten-year anniversary is not merely a testament to medical science’s triumph but a celebration of Travis’ determination and the steady support of his loved ones.

Katrina encouraging Travis as he was walking for strength in the hospitalTravis in the hospital with multiple medical tubes connected to him

Through countless hospital stays, chemotherapy sessions, and the uncertainties of recovery, Travis remained steadfast in his determination to overcome. Each day was a testament to his strength and the power of hope in the face of adversity. As we reflect on the past decade, we are filled with gratitude for the milestones reached, the challenges conquered, and the countless moments of joy shared along the way.

AOP owners Travis and Katrina at Kayakathon

Travis’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for all those facing similar battles, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is light on the horizon. His resilience inspires us to persevere, to never lose sight of the shore even amidst the stormiest of seas. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we do so not just in recognition of Travis’s triumph but as a testament to the human spirit’s boundless capacity for resilience and renewal.

The Tavares Kayakathon’s 10-Year Anniversary

As Travis commemorates his milestone anniversary, Adventure Outdoor Paddle also celebrates a decade of impact with the Tavares Kayakathon. For ten years, this annual event has brought together paddlers from near and far, uniting communities in support of a noble cause. From its modest inception to becoming a beloved annual tradition, the Tavares Kayakathon embodies the profound impact of community and compassion. Over the past five years, we’ve had the privilege of organizing this event, and each year, we’re heartened by the overwhelming support from our participants and local businesses. Their unwavering dedication and enthusiasm have transformed the Kayakathon into a highlight of our year. It’s not just a day of paddling; it’s a celebration of unity, fellowship, and the shared love for our community and its waters.

A collage of pictures celebrating the Kayakathon over 10 years

Giving Back: Fundraising for Camp Boggy Creek

As champions of compassion, Adventure Outdoor Paddle is proud to support Camp Boggy Creek located in Eustis, Florida. Founded in 1996 by Actor Paul Newman and General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, Camp Boggy Creek is a magical retreat for children facing serious medical illnesses. The camp was built on the premise that every child, regardless of their illness, deserves the chance to experience the joy, camaraderie, and transformational spirit that camp offers.

A camp counselor and camper at Camp Boggy Creek

At Camp Boggy Creek, children find solace in the embrace of nature and forge lifelong friendships in an environment specially tailored to meet their unique needs. Through a wide range of activities and experiences, from swimming and horseback riding to arts and crafts, children discover the resilience within themselves and form bonds that last a lifetime.

Our annual fundraiser, the Tavares Kayakathon, is our way of giving back to this extraordinary cause. By participating in the Kayakathon, you’re not just paddling for pleasure; you’re paddling with purpose, ensuring that children facing serious medical challenges can continue to find joy, healing, and hope at Camp Boggy Creek.

Join us as we celebrate a decade of triumph, community, and compassion. Together, let’s make waves of change and create lasting memories that ripple far beyond the shores of our local waters.

Kayak Tour in the Dora Canal
Duration
2 hours
Group Size
2 to 8

Wild Florida on the Dora Canal

Glide into a slower pace of life as you paddle through the wild beauty of the Dora Canal, where towering cypress trees stretch overhead and Spanish moss sways gently in the breeze. The air smells fresh and earthy, birdsong echoes through the canopy, and the glassy water reflects shades of green you don’t see anywhere else in Florida. You’ll feel the calm rhythm of your paddle, the warmth of the sun on your shoulders, and the quiet thrill of spotting herons, egrets, turtles, and maybe even a gator tucked along the shoreline. This is the kind of place where conversations soften, worries drift away, and time seems to stand still. As your guide shares stories of the canal’s history and points out hidden details you might otherwise miss, you’ll leave feeling relaxed, reconnected, and grateful for a rare moment to truly unplug and be present in nature.

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Fish Camp Brunch Waffles
Duration
5 hours
Group Size
no limit

The Brunch Voyage

The Brunch Voyage is the perfect way to start your weekend with nature, paddling, and a hearty lakeside breakfast.

Your self-guided journey begins on Lake Dora at Adventure Outdoor Paddle, where you’ll launch your kayak or paddle board and explore the stunning Dora Canal, known for its cypress trees, wildlife, and Old Florida charm. From there, you’ll continue across Lake Eustis to The Fish Camp, a local favorite for breakfast and brunch.

As a special perk, all guests who arrive by kayak or paddle board receive 10% off their meal at The Fish Camp. After brunch, enjoy a leisurely paddle back through the canal to return to our launch point on Lake Dora.

This 5-hour rental includes an extra hour of paddle time, giving you plenty of room to enjoy the sights and your meal without rushing.

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$55
Duration
2 hours
Group Size
1 to 6

Private Dora Canal Tour of Wild Florida

Indulge in a one-of-a-kind outdoor escape with a privately guided paddle through the breathtaking Dora Canal—renowned as “the most beautiful mile of waterway in the world.” This VIP experience is designed for travelers who seek more than just a tour—they seek immersion.

Kayaking on the Dora Canal
Duration
2 to 4 hours
Group Size
Up to 1

Single Kayak Rental

Experience the beauty of nature with our Single Kayak Rental. Perfect for solo adventurers, our premium kayaks are designed for comfort and stability, allowing you to explore the scenic waterways of the Lake Harris Chain of Lakes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, our knowledgeable staff will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Discover the vibrant stretch of the Dora Canal and get up close with the natural environment.

*We offer 20% military discount on rentals to any past or present military. Use CODE "DORASALUTE20" to receive 20% off your rental with Adventure Outdoor Paddle and show your ID at check in.

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Kayaking is perfect for family fun
Duration
2 to 4 hours
Group Size
Up to 2

Tandem Kayak Rental

Explore the scenic beauty of Central Florida's waterways with our Tandem Kayak Rental. Perfect for couples or friends, our tandem kayaks offer a stable and comfortable way to paddle through the stunning landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner, our well-maintained equipment and friendly staff will ensure a memorable experience on the water. Enjoy the tranquility of the Harris Chain of Lakes and discover the natural wonders that await you.

*We offer 20% military discount on rentals to any past or present military. Use CODE "DORASALUTE20" to receive 20% off your rental with Adventure Outdoor Paddle and show your ID at check-in.

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$55