Just a few kilometers from the town of Skibbereen, Lough Hyne is no ordinary body of water. This saltwater lake has long been known for its unique marine ecosystem. However, there is another phenomenon that draws visitors: its bioluminescence.
For those looking for a way to see this extraordinary natural spectacle themselves, Atlantic Sea Kayaking offers a night kayaking tour that brings the bioluminescence of Lough Hyne to life. Here’s everything you need to know!
Lough Hyne
Lough Hyne is Europe’s first marine nature reserve and an ecological wonder in itself. A rare marine lake formed over 4,000 years ago, it is connected to the sea by a narrow inlet known as the Rapids. The Lough is home to a wealth of biodiversity, including over 100 species of fish, exotic sponges, and even sea anemones!
By day, Lough Hyne is a great place to hike, swim, enjoy the sights, but right before nightfall, the real magic begins! Bioluminescent plankton, organisms that emit light in response to movement light up the lake. Atlantic Sea Kayaking offers a rare opportunity to witness this phenomenon firsthand with their night kayaking tour.
The Night Kayaking Experience
Atlantic Sea Kayaking’s Lough Hyne Night Kayaking Tour starts exactly 1 hour before darkness. After an introduction to kayaking and the necessary safety briefing, the tour group is led into the lake.
The guides at Atlantic Sea Kayaking are skilled and deeply knowledgeable, not only about the lake’s history and ecology, but also about creating a fantastic atmosphere!
The bioluminescence begins with each stroke, and the water turns a bright, twinkling blue. The bioluminescent plankton activates thanks to dinoflagellates, microscopic organisms that emit light through a chemical reaction when agitated, creating this spectacular display.
Lough Hyne’s bioluminescence is seasonal, and though its intensity varies throughout the year, the April-November months often provide the most brilliant displays.
Tickets & Additional Information
The Lough Hyne night kayaking tour is accessible to kayakers of all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned paddlers. Atlantic Sea Kayaking provides all the necessary equipment, including kayaks, paddles, and safety gear. The guides ensure that everyone feels comfortable on the water, tailoring the pace of the tour to suit the group’s needs.
Atlantic Sea Kayaking also have a family friendly version of this tour available, with double kayaks instead of singles.
The tour typically lasts about two and a half hours, allowing plenty of time to explore the lake and fully immerse in the bioluminescence. It’s recommended to dress warmly, as the evenings on the water can be cool, even in summer, and especially now in September!
The tour is priced at €75pp, and you can book through atlanticseakayaking.com.
