We did this in July this year, and combined it with a trip to the KennedySpaceCenter.

We chose the Bioluminescent Kayak Tour, which runs in the evenings from June to October. During these warm summer months, when it gets dark, the waters of the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon are lit up with a naturally occurring bioluminescence. Any movement in the water produces an eerie light, and as you paddle you will leave a stream of illuminated bubbles in your wake.

We arrived in the evening an hour dark, at the Haulover Canal Launch on MerritIsland, near Titusville. After some instruction, having been kitted out with life jackets and nightlights - and having signed the inevitable waiver - we set off, two to a kayak. There were around half a dozen kayaks to the group, with three guides.

We immediately spotted manatees, who came to investigate us and swim around for a while. As we paddled up the Indian River we saw dolphins, more manatees, and racoons on the bank of the river. There was, of course, also the usual plethora of birdlife.

As darkness arrived, the bioluminescence burst into life. In Mosquito Lagoon, we paddled through a school of mullet which leapt out the water all round us, in a bright bluey-green glow. Quite amazing!

There was a slightly unnerving incident when one of the kayaks –not ours I’m happy to say) was hit by a large animal underwater. The couple in the boat were certain that it was a very large alligator. Happily we all got back to land safely.

The trip lasts two and a half hours and cost us $32 each. - well worth it for a bit of real-life excitement and wildlife watching.

Words of warning: you may just have spotted that the trip took place partly in Mosquito Lagoon. It doesn’t get that name for nothing, and it is important that you dress appropriately and take plenty of repellent. You will also get wet, so make sure you have a change of clothing with you.

“A Day Away” provide other kayaking tours, as do various other companies. Why not give it a go? You won’t regret it..