Turtles Take Center Stage

Epic Kayaks Supports South Carolina Aquarium in Turtle Conservation

One of the most rewarding elements of kayaking is the outdoor experience that it provides. We are able to push away from shore and enjoy the natural world in a very unique way, quietly interacting with species that landlubbers only read about or see in pictures.

As paddlers we should consider ourselves stewards of this environment, and at Epic we are taking steps in that direction. On May 23rd Epic joined the South Carolina Aquarium in celebrating World Turtle Day.

Turtles face many threats to their survival and have declining numbers in the wild. World Turtle day offered a rare opportunity for S.C. Aquarium guests to see many different species of turtles including sea turtles, salt marsh turtles, freshwater turtles and tortoises all in one place at one time. Visitors also enjoyed speaking directly with turtle conservationists whom actively participate in the rescue efforts of sea turtles, while hearing about the impact each one of our daily decisions has on turtles, wildlife and wild places.

Epic Kayaks was in attendance showcasing a new, limited-edition Epic Sea Turtle GPX kayak. On sale for the summer of 2009, proceeds from our limited edition sea turtle kayak will benefit the Sea Turtle Hospital and the many conservation programs of the South Carolina Aquarium.

This has been a very rewarding endeavor, and we hope that this partnership will provide more resources to help protect our natural places and the species that inhabit them. To enquire about the limited edition “turtle” GPX give us a call: 843-884-4601.

About the South Carolina Aquarium:

The South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston’s most visited attraction, features thousands of amazing aquatic animals from river otters and sharks to loggerhead turtles in more than 60 exhibits representing the rich biodiversity of South Carolina from the mountains to the sea. Dedicated to promoting education and conservation, the Aquarium also presents fabulous views of Charleston harbor and interactive exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.

The South Carolina Aquarium, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. (last ticket sold at 5 p.m.) from April 1 to August 15 and is open Monday – Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. (last ticket sold at 4 p.m.) from August 16 to March 31. The Aquarium is closed Thanksgiving Day, half day Dec. 24 (open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and Dec. 25. Admission prices are: Children 1 and under (free); Youth 2-11 ($10); Adults ($17); Seniors 62+ ($16). Military, senior, college and group discounts are available. For more information call 843.720.1990 or visit www.scaquarium.org. Memberships are available by calling 843.577.FISH.