We go to many campgrounds where you can bring your own kayak or canoe without any kind of problems at all. You gotta admit it, as much as I LOVE Disney, Disney is all about the money.
I was one of the people who asked and it is a BUMMER. I was just at Panama City Beach and there were lots of people with their own watercraft in a smaller bay area. No big deal. But Disney will be Disney....they just don't want no tacky orange paddleboards junking up their canals!
Above is a pic taken behind the counter at the Bike Barn by the CM working today, I know there has been some discussion lately about the number of people able to go in a canoe so hopefully this clarifies for everyone.
Update. Canoes are first come first served, so we missed out in the morning, but went back late afternoon (too hot middle of day). Could only do a 30 minute, since it was so late, but still a good time. Next time will make sure to get there earlier so we can do an hour.