Since childhood exploring the Matanzas River, Ben Brandao has turned a lifetime on the water into GeoTrippin, a boutique ecotour company in St. Augustine. Certified by the American Canoe Association, Ben leads small-group kayak ad...
Ben stands out as the heart of this operation, with reviewers consistently praising his deep knowledge of the Matanzas River ecosystem and his genuine enthusiasm for sharing it. He's particularly skilled at making first-time kayakers feel comfortable, offering patient instruction on paddling techniques while weaving in fascinating details about local wildlife, conservation efforts, and area history. The equipment gets high marks, and guests regularly spot dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, and various bird species during their tours. The educational component really shines through here. This isn't just a scenic paddle—expect to learn about oyster restoration, wetland ecology, and the river's environmental significance while taking in beautiful views. Ben adjusts his approach based on group experience levels and keeps everyone engaged, whether you're nervous about your first kayak trip or looking to improve your skills. One reviewer mentioned difficulty reaching the business by phone in the morning and felt the text response was curt, though they were offered an alternative time. Overall, guests describe their outings as memorable combinations of adventure, education, and wildlife encounters that leave them eager to return.
Ben was a knowledgeable guide on history, climate and the oyster ecosystem. Good basic kayaking lesson and a beautiful morning on the water. Saw a pod of dolphins just before we entered the water
Catherine Stober
March 11, 2026
Ben was a knowledgeable guide on history, climate and the oyster ecosystem. Good basic kayaking lesson and a beautiful morning on the water. Saw a pod of dolphins just before we entered the water
Catherine Stober
March 11, 2026