[Robie]

My apologies if this has been covered and I just can't find exactly what I am looking for.
I am coming from a state where alligarors and water snakes aren't an issue. I like to row a single shell, and paddle a canoe and paddle board. Is there any body of water in or around the villages where it is safe to do this, or should I just leave these boats and boards behind?

[villagetinker]

In general, if there is water, there will be the possibility of snakes and alligators, we see them in the golf courses, etc. Attacks are rare, but I will leave it to others with more experience with these types of watercraft to comment on taking them here. On a side note, there are dragon boat clubs and I am sure other boating clubs that will have advice also.

[Pondboy]

You could launch in Lake Miona. There is a ramp there.

I was not comfortable launching in Miona just due to alligators. But everything I read said that gator attacks are rare. Your call on that.

I had a Pro AM 25’ single that I use to row up in NC. I also had a Surf Ski that I sold before moving here.

I’m holding out for Central Lake to open up and allow folks to bring their own water toys (paddle boards, kayaks, etc). However, im thinking that there is a good chance that won’t be allowed. It might just be “rentals only”
It might also be too small to put a rowing shell in, but that your call.

As far as the paddle board, call the Villages Parks dept. they might allow you to launch is a designated “fishing pond”. Kayaks are allowed in there but most were too small for me to justify launching a kayak into. There are maps showing which ponds are designated fishing ponds.

I’m sure there’s a Kayak club or two that you can contact for info on day trips outside the area.

[Altavia]

Very low risk, even lower risk if in body's of water frequented by people.

Another factor is storage space. May be easier to leave what you have behind and just rent when needed.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Originally Posted by Robie

My apologies if this has been covered and I just can't find exactly what I am looking for.
I am coming from a state where alligarors and water snakes aren't an issue. I like to row a single shell, and paddle a canoe and paddle board. Is there any body of water in or around the villages where it is safe to do this, or should I just leave these boats and boards behind?

Lakes over near MT Dora and over in Leesburg have docks and boats. I wouldn't suggest the paddle board, but the other boats are just fine to bring and use. . . a shell while rowing wouldn't attract an alligator. stationary for awhile near shore, you might get "examined"