The Gilligan

Forsake the daily grind and embark on a journey that will arouse the senses and your mind. The Gilligan Paddle Trip (5 Miles) is a one of a kind experience that will create everlasting Memories, while at the same time is just right for larger groups by not being too long or busy. Just imagine a down-river paddle alongside the Florida wild river banks where one is likely to see deer, cranes, and turtles galore. On this Adventure you will have the amazing opportunity to visit Poe Springs, before ending at the Poe Springs boat ramp. Below we will describe the trip and present a map. This 3 hour (approximation) Adventure that we call The Gilligan begins at Santa Fe Canoe Outpost and ends at the Stop sign on the map, just past Poe Spring but still in the park.

For the first 2.5 miles you will have a quiet paddle through untouched landscape allowing you the view of wildlife and forestry that only a state conservation area can provide. The 27 bridge will be your landmark, letting you know that you have 2.5 miles to go before reaching Poe Spring.

Poe Springs: 29°49'32"N 82°38'56"W

Poe Spring has some very unique characteristics compared to others on the Santa Fe. Instead of the almost too blue to be true colors that other springs on this list can boast… Poe itself has more of a green to blue coloration. This is due in part to the amount of sulfur and iron that can be found in its vent which is approximately 18’ below the surface. Poe also sports a short spring run measuring around 75’ or so. The interesting thing about the run besides its shallowness, is that it creates an extremely visible line of crystal clear water that meets the Santa Fe and its brown or tannin water. A temperature change is evident as well at this battle of the waters. Poe pumps out over 45 million gal. of water a day and it is less than evident. It can almost seem still at times. Owned and preserved by Alachua County, this park is absolutely gorgeous. Once you are done enjoying the beautiful spring, paddle back out to the river and enjoy a very short 120 yard paddle to the boat ramp at Poe. Indicated on the map, the boat ramp will have a floating dock with a sign. You will see our AOA Paddler Logo on the sign and the boat ramp rests to the right of the dock. Once there, we will come and take care of the boats and any shuttle services that were arranged.

A side note about the park itself, this park is wonderful for a gathering. Studded with pavilions both spring-side and in the main park, a playground area, volleyball areas, and so much more. AOA can also cater this location as we have a full kitchen located right inside the park. If slow smoked BBQ sounds good for your event let us know and we would be happy to oblige.

Group Cancelation, Payment, & Changes Policy

To get you on the schedule and guarantee your Adventure, we require 50% of your estimated total. The remaining balance will be due no later than 48 hours prior to your Adventure. Changes to your Adventure (example; number of attendees, trip corrections, boat corrections, lunch add-ons, etc.) can be made with price adjustments until 48 hours prior to your Adventure.

The 50% deposit is non-refundable. After the remaining balance is paid, If for some reason your trip needs to be canceled you will have one of the 3 options below to choose from, until 48 hours before your Adventure. After the 48 hour mark, there will be no refund options available.

  1. Rebook your experience with a free 1 time postponement. A personalized code will be issued that can be used to rebook online at your convenience. This works like an online gift card with no expiration date. You can use the value (your total amount spent) on any online service we provide.

  2. Receive 25% of total amount spent. We frown on this option, simply because we would prefer you to have built a long lasting Memory with your money.

  3. Reschedule your Adventure. Just let us know what date in the future you would like and we will reschedule it for you.