Paddle Pub Tampa
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you board in Tampa.
How long will we be aboard the Paddle Pub?
Our standard tour in Tampa is approximately 2 hours from the time you step aboard the “Paddle Pub” to the time we drop you off. If you are booking a special event, we may have the ability to increase the length of your tour per your request, depending on availability.
What should I bring?
Here are a few suggestions for you to maximize your experience:
- Drinks/Ice: If bringing adult beverages, 36oz. of beer or 18oz. of wine per person should be plenty.
- Don’t forget to bring some water, we do have a canopy to keep you shaded, but it can still get warm out on the water!
- Music: The “Paddle Pub” sound system can be run by your phone. We have some great playlists, but we know every group has their own favorites.
- Sunscreen: Florida is named the sunshine state for a reason! Our collapsible canopy blocks a lot of rays, but it’s still best to lather up!
- Snacks: Bring aboard anything your group would like to munch on.
- Clothing/Footwear: When selecting your outfit, make sure to take into consideration both time of year and conditions on the water. Also, I know we Floridians like to wear flip-flops, but you may want to consider wearing a close-toed shoe for pedaling.
I can't wait to step aboard! How do I book?
We can’t wait to have you aboard! Whether you are booking the entire CycleBoat or booking by the seat, just follow these 3 steps to sign up for your Paddle Pub CycleBoat experience:
- Go to our online booking page and select a date/time.
- Choose to book by the seat or book the entire boat and pay via credit card.
- Read and sign your electronic waiver.
I want to host a party or event. Can I book the entire CycleBoat?
YES! We will work with you to customize your ride aboard the “Paddle Pub” to make sure you and your guests have an experience you’ll never forget! In fact, because we give a discount for booking the entire CycleBoat, we recommend that those of you celebrating the following events or any other large group event book the entire “Paddle Pub”:
- Birthday Party
- Bachelorette Party
- Company Events and Team Building
- Bachelor Party
- Conventions
- Family Reunion or Class Reunion
Is it hard to pedal?
Not at all! Our riders always comment on how surprisingly EASY the CycleBoat is to pedal, especially compared to the Pedal Trolley’s on the street! There are no hills on the waterways in Florida and we can raise and lower the paddlewheel to increase or decrease resistance. We also have a motor; just in case your pedaling turns into dancing by the end of the cruise! 😉
Where do we meet for our Paddle Pub cycleboat experience?
Tampa: We will pick up and drop off at the Tampa Convention Center Marina near the Sail Pavilion. You can’t miss our bright yellow paddlewheel! Public parking is available in several nearby lots.
- Tampa Convention Center Garage
- Under the Selmon Expressway
- If you are feeling lucky, try the roundabout by the Sail Pavilion.
- Pam Iorio Parking Garage
Do you make any stops?
In Tampa, due to 2 hour cruise length, we have a designated 15-20 minute HALFWAY STOP for: Bathrooms, Food, and Beverage. We typically stop at the docks near Armature Works and Ulele or Rick’s on the River. (Although these docks are available 99% of the time, we cannot guarantee your halfway stop in the event of circumstances outside of our control.)
How many passengers can fit on the CycleBoat?
16. Our CycleBoats have 10 pedal stations seated around a central bar and a large bench seat for non-pedalers or those who would like a break from pedaling. There is also plenty of room to stand up and walk around.
Can I drink aboard the "Paddle Pub?"
Absolutely! The “Paddle Pub” is a BYOB experience, meaning we will not be providing any beverages, but you are welcome to bring your own! We will provide cups to transfer over any drinks from glass containers.
My captain and crew gave us an incredible experience; can I leave them a tip?
If you had a great experience and our crew added to your enjoyment please feel free to show your appreciation with a tip.
How many pedal seats are there?
There are 10 pedal seats around the bar area; however, we allow up to 16 guests at a time. While up to 10 party members are pedaling, the rest can relax on the padded bench or mingle around the bar area until it’s their turn to pedal.
Can you bring your own drinks and snacks?
Absolutely, bring whatever you’d like!
Do you provide food and beverages?
We will not provide food and beverages but you are permitted to bring aboard drinks and food of your liking. Many of our boats will be docked at locations that provide food and beverage services.
Is there room to stand up and walk around?
You bet there is! If you want to stretch your legs for a few minutes, feel free to stand up and walk around the deck. Just don’t let your friends see you take your feet off the pedals!
Will we see any dolphins?
In Tampa, sightings are not incredibly frequent but we always have our eyes open for them.
Are children allowed onboard?
Children are not permitted on public cruises but ARE welcome on any private cruise booking! Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 25. If you have any questions regarding this policy, please feel free to give us a call at 813-603-3117.
How many seats need to be filled to operate the Paddle Pub?
As few as 6 can pedal the “Paddle Pub” but we prefer to cruise with 8 or more. We will contact you if fewer than 6 seats are filled for your time slot. If we must cancel due to a shortage of passengers we will refund your payment if we are unable to reschedule your cruise. When scheduling with us, check our live availability and, if possible, book a time that already has some seats taken to avoid this scenario. Keep in mind that your party does not necessarily need to have 6 people in it, as you could be sharing the boat with another group during a public cruise.
Does each cycleboat have a captain?
Yes! Each Paddle Pub CycleBoat will be managed and operated by a United States Coast Guard Licensed Master Captain as well as a 1st Mate!
What happens if we have bad weather on the day of our cycleboat cruise?
The “Paddle Pub” pedals rain or shine thanks to a protective canopy that covers the boat. In the case of extreme weather including thunder, lightning or high winds (over 20mph), the captain has the authority to cancel the cruise if the weather is still severe after our standard 30 minute delay and issue vouchers for a cruise when the weather is more cooperative. Your safety is our top priority.
Is there a bathroom onboard?
No, but we do have a designated halfway stops at participating restaurants where you will have the ability to exit the “Paddle Pub” for bathroom needs as well as to refresh your beverages."
What is your cancellation policy?
The entire team at Paddle Pub CycleBoats values your business and experience with us! In order to maintain efficiency and accuracy in our schedule of availability for our guests, and a reliable work schedule for our staff, we have instituted the following policy regarding cancellations.
- All sales are final. Any cancellations made more than 7 days in advance will be entitled to a voucher for a future tour. Any cancellations made within 7 days of the scheduled tour will not be entitled to a voucher or refund. In the event that inclement weather causes the cancellation of your tour, each passenger will be provided a rain check for a future cruise.
- In the event of unforeseen circumstances such as hurricanes, pandemics, waterway restrictions, etc., vouchers and refunds will be determined at the companies exclusive discretion.
Again, we thank you for your support and look forward to providing you with an incredible on the water experience!
Do you provide life jackets?
While our service is here to provide you with a fun filled time, your safety is our number one priority. Each of our Paddle Pub CycleBoats have been inspected and certified by the U.S. Coastguard and are equipped with all necessary safety equipment including life preservers for adults and children. Whether you wear them is your personal choice.
Can we Swim during the tour?
No
4 Paddle Pub Pro Tips
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Get to the dock about fifteen minutes before your cruise — boarding a full boat takes a few minutes, and it keeps your time on the water for the water.
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Have everyone sign their waiver before you set off, so your group walks straight on instead of filling forms in at the dock.
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Bring a layer you can throw on. It runs cooler out on the water than it does on shore, and breezier once the sun starts dropping.
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Wear flat, non-slip shoes for boarding, and don't skip the sunscreen — out there the sun comes off the water as well as down from the sky.