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Our Guides

Let Our Kayak and Naturalist Guides Show You the Wonder of Northeast Florida

Our ecotour guides are certified Florida Master Naturalist Instructors through the University of Florida. They are the reason we can offer the in-depth, wide array of kayak programs that are unique to Ripple Effect Ecotours. Their diverse knowledge, backgrounds, and educations, coupled with their Florida Master Naturalists training, ensures that your ecotour will be an unforgettable experience, guided by the best of the best to ensure your safety and enjoyment.

Chris Kelley

Florida Master Naturalist Instructor - ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayak Instructor -USCG Boat Captain - Guide

Chris is the owner of Ripple Effect Ecotours. A life-long obsession with the natural world began in the remote areas of Baja, Mexico where he was introduced to off-grid, self-sufficient living in “La Frontera”, one of the last frontiers in North America. The abundance of marine life in the Sea of Cortez in contrast to the stark Baja Desert led Chris on a journey exploring the vast American landscape over the next decade by both land and sea.

After two years exploring the Florida coastlines on their 34′ sailboat, “Rift”, Chris and his wife settled into the quaint seaside town of St. Augustine, Florida. Nowhere else had they encountered such an abundance of natural beauty in the Sunshine State. Chris now teaches kayaking as an American Canoe Association Level 3 Coastal Kayak Instructor and environmental education as a University of Florida Master Naturalist Instructor.

Eric Ziecheck

Stewardship/Educational Coordinator

An implanted Floridian at the age of 6, Eric has spent the majority of his life on the beaches of both the east and west coasts of Florida. Eric has been fortunate to travel to locations all over the world, particularly the coastal areas of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. He spent a great amount of time along the Mata Atlantica (Atlantic Coastal Forests). Out of these experiences, he came to appreciate each country’s lush and beautiful places. His career has led him to the Ripple with a passion for environmental education focused on natural resources. Eric believes that our youth are one of the most important natural resources for our future.

Eric is a graduate of the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science from the College of Health and Human Performance and a Master’s degree from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. He is also a Certified Coastal Master Naturalist.

Sumo Ray

Marine Scientist - Manager

Growing up on the Long Island Sound, Sumo discovered his passion for kayaking, sailing, and the coastal environment. After graduating from the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences at Stony Brook University, Sumo worked conducting research in ocean chemistry  to include analysis of heavy metals and chloropigments.

When Sumo isn’t guiding, you can find him volunteering at the GTM Research Reserve, hiking, or diving at coral reefs around the world. Some of his notable travel includes the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, and Discovery Bay Marine Lab in Jamaica.

Sumo enjoys sharing his passion for the environment and inspiring guests of all ages to continue seeking adventure in nature.