Engulfing the bay that gave the park its name and the barrier reefs situated a little off the coast, the Biscayne National Park welcomes proficient maritime adventurers and first-timers alike. It plays a generous host to four extensive ecosystems. The unique shoreline mangrove swamp and innumerable species call it home.
With more than 94% percent of the park underwater, the Biscayne is an unconventional yet thrilling destination. Activities like camping, diving, and even snorkeling await you.
Looking forward to basking in the Biscayne blue? Make buying travel insurance part of your plan to safeguard yourself from unanticipated catastrophe.
Trip Cancellation Insurance for Travelers in Biscayne National Park - FAQs
Activities by the sea cannot always be certain. Tides may turn, the weather may change and there is, of course, the uncertainty of the climate of your own life to think of as well. Canceled flights, medical emergencies, early departures… The list that could cause a trip to be canceled is endless. But how does one recover from the financial losses if your trip gets sabotaged like that? The answer is to have a trip cancellation insurance plan ready before you depart.
Why should I get trip cancellation insurance for my Biscayne National Park travel?
The uncertainty of travel can cause you distress and may weigh heavy on your wallet. A trip cancellation insurance coverage policy can cut down your losses by refunding your expenditure for booked activities and events to quite a degree. The trip must be canceled due to a reason that is approved by the plan for any reimbursement to occur.
What should I look for in my Biscayne National Park trip cancellation insurance?
A trip cancellation insurance policy can cover your bookings with the service provider. This may be the airline or transportation company making your bookings. It is best practice to check if the terms and items on your itinerary are included before buying the policy. Important items to check for can encompass missed connection coverage, trip cancellation coverage for a covered reason, and repatriation or emergency medical evacuation coverage.
A trip cancellation insurance policy can help you when you least expect it. Always read the certificate wording to know what’s covered.
Things To Do For Your Biscayne National Park Travel
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a great way to immerse yourself in the Biscayne National Park experience. The availability of both half-day and full-day tours allows you to customize your experience. You’re bound to witness species like Arctic terns and sea turtles. Tours also offer you the fascinating option of exploring the fascinating shipwrecks of Biscayne Bay.
Boating
Renting out a boat to the Biscayne Bay gives you a great wide look at what the park strives to preserve - the untouched wilderness. Guided boating tours give you a taste of nearby islands like Adams Key, and the coral reefs that make it special. Visitors should read through the general guidelines for boating before embarking on a tour.
Fishing
Fishing is not a boring activity here at the Park, owing to its diverse range of ecosystems. The mangrove biome and the saltwater region, for example, will both open different doors for you. The authentic fisheries of the region are precious. There are some rules about species like lobster that need special attention. We advise visitors to be well-versed with them before casting the line.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Sailing the waters of the bay on a canoe is one of the most exciting activities you can partake in here at Biscayne Bay. It allows you to cover quite an expanse of the park in one try. You can leave the mangrove-ridden parts of the bay and travel to the keys and the islands around to fish, camp, or simply enjoy the sights. Each creek and lagoon has plenty of their native species, like jellyfish and sea squirts. If you’re lucky, you’ll even find clusters of native roosting birds.
Dante Fascell Visitor Center
The Visiting Center is a treasure trove of information for anyone looking to learn more about the history and constituent ecosystems of the park. Some displays allow visitors to touch and feel actual underwater specimens. It also houses a scenic gallery that features a diverse range of pieces that have been inspired by the charm of the region.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Biscayne National Park
Mind The Weather
Because of the excellent sub-tropical climate, you’re bound to enjoy the sunshine and the pleasant gifts of summer all year round. Winters are dry, but there is always the risk of heavy rain and thunderstorms by the sea. This can make certain park activities dangerous. It may even bar visitors from participating in many of them. Everyone should keep an eye on park alerts and weather forecasts while outlining a trip. Get a visitors medical insurance plan so you know you won’t feel the pocket pinch should you need medical care while on your vacation.
Fishing Rules
Rules related to fishing and lobster-fishing at the Biscayne are very specific and change from time to time. No one would want to taint their wonderful maritime adventure because of a forgotten set of guidelines. This may lead to a loss of time and further complications. Visitors must have a good look at the regulations regarding fishing and boating before indulging in these activities. Asking questions from guides and Park personnel is a great way to keep up with any changes.
Prevent Accidents
Many injuries and deaths in national parks can usually be avoided if visitors take the right measures, and pay attention to instructions. Considering visitors medical insurance can come in handy and save you from financial losses because of a medical emergency. At Biscayne, boating accidents are most common. Visitors should keep some simple guidelines like wearing a life-jacket and regulating the speed in mind. Free boating classes are also available for amateurs at sea and simple lessons can go a long way in preserving your safety.
Protect Yourself From Viruses
While the Biscayne National Park is not always on virus-alert and is mostly safe, certain maladies like the Zika virus come and go, especially in the Florida region. Park visitors should stay alert, avoid mosquito bites, and also report any suspicious symptoms. In very drastic cases, medical care or hospitalization may be unavoidable. That is why it is best to opt for visitors medical insurance before you leave for your Biscayne Bay vacation.
Before You Go To Biscayne National Park - Do This!
- Take your time: not every traveler can afford to spend as much time as they want at the Biscayne. But we urge those who can to slow down and take their time. The water-based activities beg for attention and time and we recommend planning for at least three to four days.
- Mind your pets: Biscayne National Park is one of the very few parks that allows pets in certain areas of Elliott Key and near the visiting center. Visitors are advised to read the guidelines about pet access.
- Sort out your permits: a park with activities as unique as snorkeling and boating requires permits to participate. It is advisable to seek out information about the sources for the same beforehand to prevent administrative confusion.
And most importantly, buy travel insurance to put your mind at ease while you’re on your travels.