The Foundation currently provides hybrid canoes and kayaks for use by Pelican Bay members and their guests who desire to explore Clam Pass, Clam Bay tidal ponds, the mangrove forest and the Gulf. CLAM BAY KAYAKING/CANOEING Running approximately six to eight miles round trip, the Clam Bay system runs from a southern point at Clam Pass Park (at the end of Seagate Drive near the Naples Grande Beach Resort), past Clam Pass (the water entrance and exit to the Gulf of Mexico) to the northernmost point close to Bay Colony and The Ritz-Carlton. The waterways are open to the public (with access at Clam Pass Park), but only Pelican Bay residents and guests have access to canoes/kayaks from the North Boardwalk dock. Clam Bay is comprised of various tidal ponds and creeks that meander through a mangrove forest along the Pelican Bay Gulf Coast. This system is typical of southern Florida tidal mangrove areas, offering unique opportunities to observe our “natural” residents at their tropical best. Various species of mangroves and other vegetation abound throughout the bay system, along with a wide variety of tropical birds. However, the prospective water enthusiast needs to be aware there are some dangers that make activity in this area very different (and more challenging) than in open lake and river systems. These challenges include: • Very shallow waters (with the presence of sandbars) that can make canoeing difficult at times, especially at low tide • Tidal flows that can become strong, particularly in the narrow creeks. This is especially true in the area surrounding Clam Pass — the narrow outlet to the Gulf of Mexico. • Low-hanging mangrove branches that can interfere with paddling. Ducking out of the way of low-hanging branches puts the canoeist/kayaker at risk of capsizing. Spiderwebs and snakes frequently hang from the mangrove branches and you may need to paddle through them in the narrow creek areas. • Muddy bottom soil that can act as quicksand if you attempt to stand up to right a capsized vessel • Presence of various animals, including alligators, raccoons, snakes, etc. Dead-end creeks that require turning around in very narrow spaces • Wind changes The presence of these challenges need not discourage you from experiencing a very enjoyable adventure. They are mentioned here only to prepare you for what may lie ahead. Please give them careful consideration before you begin your journey, as even one frightened passenger can cause the vessel to capsize. Two sessions are available each day. The first session begins at 8 a.m. and runs until noon. Session two runs CANOEING & KAYAKING PLAY IN THE BAY Pelican Bay Member Guide 2023 74 PelicanBay.org
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