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Dolphin & Manatee Wildlife Adventure Tour (Near Cocoa Beach & Port Canaveral)

  • Tour Duration:2 Hours
  • Monday – SundayEvery 2 hours
  • Min Age:All ages welcome
  • Max People:6 maximum

Top-Rated Wildlife Cruise. Dolphins on Every Trip!

Small-group boat tour in the Banana River & Indian River Lagoon. See wild dolphins on virtually every trip, spot manatees on most, and enjoy a calm, family-friendly cruise near Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral..

Overview

We explore the Banana River and Indian River Lagoon on a comfortable small boat that can reach shallow, hard-to-access areas where wildlife actually gathers. That means better chances to see wild dolphins, manatees, pelicans, herons, stingrays, turtles, and more – all in their natural habitat and often swimming right alongside the boat.

This tour is relaxed, educational, and family-friendly, led by a knowledgeable local captain who shares stories about Space Coast history, local ecosystems, famous landmarks, and even rocket launch viewing tips. It’s one of the most complete ways to experience Florida’s Space Coast in just two hours.

Tour Highlights: Why This Is One of the Best Dolphin Tours Near Cocoa Beach

11Dolphin swimming near boat in Cocoa Beach near Port Canaveral
  • True Wildlife Encounters This is not a “pass-by” sightseeing ride - we seek out areas where dolphins and manatees naturally gather, giving you close, authentic viewing in their real habitat.
  • Small Boat = More Access Our smaller vessels can navigate shallow backwaters and hidden waterways that large tour boats simply can’t reach - where the best wildlife moments happen.
  • Uncrowded, Personal Experience With a maximum of just 6 guests, you’ll enjoy a quiet, intimate cruise - perfect for photos, questions, and meaningful encounters with nature.
  • Educational & Entertaining Learn about local ecosystems, wildlife behavior, Space Coast history, landmarks, and even rocket launches from a passionate local captain.
  • One of the Most Complete Space Coast Experiences Wildlife, scenery, history, and local insight - all in one easy 2-hour adventure near Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral.

What to Expect on This Dolphin & Manatee Tour Near Cocoa Beach

  • 2-hour scenic cruise on the Banana River / Indian River Lagoon near Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral

  • Dolphins: seen on every tour! Manatees: most tours

  • Small boat access to shallow backwaters for more wildlife opportunities

  • Local captain narration: wildlife, history, landmarks + rocket launch notes

  • Calm ride – great for families, first-time visitors, and cruise guests

  • Bring snacks & drinks (cooler welcome)

11Family dolphin tour near Cocoa beach on a small boat
Looking for “dolphin tours near me” or a wildlife tour close to your hotel or cruise ship?

Dolphin and Manatee Tours Near Cocoa Beach & Port Canaveral

We depart near Port Canaveral (about 5 minutes) and roughly 12 minutes from Cocoa Beach – easy for cruise guests and families staying on the Space Coast. Easy drive from Orlando

Explore our dolphin tours near Cocoa Beach

Location

2550 N Banana River Drive, Merritt Island, Fl 32952

Opening Hours

Monday – Sunday
Every 2 hours, check the booking box for times and availability

Important Notes

  • Alcohol permitted for 21+ 

  • Max 6 passengers (USCG capacity rule, regardless of age)

  • Arrive 10–15 minutes early

  • No restroom onboard (public restroom available at the park before departure)

Tip for the Captain. 18-20% is customary

Wildlife Respect (Florida rules)

Dolphins and manatees are protected wildlife. We enjoy them responsibly – no touching, feeding, or chasing. Encounters are always natural and on the animals’ terms.

What to Bring?

  • Sunscreen
  • Towel
  • Water Shoes
  • Snacks
  • Camera
  • Polarize Sunglasses

Cancellation & Rescheduling

Because we run small boats and reserve your time specifically for your group, tickets are non-refundable.
You can reschedule up to 24 hours before your tour (no fee).
If something truly unexpected happens, please reach out. We’ll always do our best to help.

Weather & Captain Cancellation (our promise):

If we cancel due to unsafe weather or mechanical issues, you’ll choose a full refund or a rescheduled date – guests never lose money because of weather.

Customer photos

  • 11manatees swimming along the boat in Cocoa Beach
  • 11Kids watching dolphins on a Dolphin & Manatee tour near Cocoa Beach
  • 11Dolphins swimming near a small boat on dolphin & manatee tour in Cape Canaveral
  • 11Kids watching a manatee on a family dolphin and manatee boat tour near Port Canaveral Florida
  • 11Dolphins swimming next to a small family tour boat in the Indian River Lagoon
  • 11Dolphin jumping near a boat on a Cocoa Beach dolphin tour
  • 11Cocoa beach dolphin tour with kids
  • 11Experienced local captain guiding a family dolphin tour on the Space Coast

FAQ

Will we see dolphins and manatees?

Yes! Dolphins are seen on every tour, and manatees on most tours. We operate small boats that can reach shallow, hard-to-access areas of the lagoon, we often encounter more wildlife than larger tour boats. All animals are wild, so sightings can never be guaranteed, but our success rate is among the best on the Space Coast.

How far is the departure from Cocoa Beach / Port Canaveral?

We depart just 5 minutes from Port Canaveral and about 10–15 minutes from Cocoa Beach, making this tour ideal for cruise guests and visitors staying on the Space Coast.

Can we bring food and drinks?

Yes! You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks. Many guests enjoy relaxing with refreshments while spotting dolphins and manatees.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

No, there is no restroom onboard. We recommend using facilities before departure. The tour lasts 2 hours and is designed to be comfortable for all guests.

How early should we arrive?

Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in, get settled, and ensure an on-time departure.

Is this tour safe for infants / small kids?

Absolutely. This is a family-friendly tour for all ages. We provide Coast Guard-approved life jackets in all sizes, including infant and child sizes. The ride is calm and ideal for families with young children.

What is the best time of day or season to see dolphins and manatees?

Dolphins and Manatees are present year-round and are commonly seen on every tour. Morning tours are often the calmest, but wildlife sightings are excellent throughout the day. During summer we encourage you to book morning trips because of the afternoon thunderstorms typical for summer months.

Why is this tour different from other dolphin tours in Cocoa Beach?

Unlike large group boats, we operate small vessels that access shallow, less-traveled areas of the lagoon, where wildlife is more active and less disturbed. This means closer encounters, fewer crowds, and a more authentic experience. Plus, our local captains share Space Coast history, landmarks, and even point out rocket launches when possible.

Is this good for cruise guests and first-time visitors?

Yes! This is one of the best all-around tours on Florida’s Space Coast. It’s close to Port Canaveral and Cocoa Beach, and combines wildlife viewing, local storytelling, and a relaxing boat ride. Perfect for cruise passengers with limited time and first-time visitors who want to see “the real Florida” in a single outing.

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