Cocoa Beach: 2-Hour Boat Tour with Captain

Planning a day on the water in Cocoa Beach? We’ve taken a close look at the popular 2-hour boat tour offered through Marina Princess Island Boat Tours to help you decide if this scenic cruise suits your travel style. While the idea of cruising along Florida’s stunning coast sounds fantastic, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for.

What we love about this tour is the chance to experience beautiful coastal views, the small group setting that offers a more personal vibe, and the potential to spot local wildlife like birds and marine life. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors, especially if you’re into nature and scenic scenery. However, a recent review points out that the experience might not meet everyone’s expectations if logistical issues arise, such as no-shows or communication problems.

This tour really suits families, couples, or small groups wanting a laid-back, scenic outing. If you’re after a quick, picturesque cruise with a friendly captain and don’t mind the possibility of occasional hiccups, it could be worth considering. But if you prefer guaranteed punctuality or a more structured itinerary, you might want to explore alternatives.

Good To Know

• Short, scenic cruise along Cocoa Beach and surrounding areas
• Small group size (up to 6 participants) for a more intimate experience
• Wildlife viewing opportunities including birds and marine life
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead
• Costs $250 per group, making it an affordable small-group adventure
• Potential logistical issues as some reviews report no-shows or lack of communication

You can check if your dates are available here:

Analyzing the Tour Experience

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

This tour includes a private boat and a captain to steer your vessel, so you can relax and focus on the scenery. The price of $250 for up to six people means about $41-42 per person, which is quite reasonable considering it’s a private experience. The tour emphasizes fun and memorable moments, with the captain likely sharing insights into the local sights along the way.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The 2-hour cruise typically starts from Cocoa Beach, with the boat journey taking you past Merritt Island, Port Canaveral, and the coastal waters in between. These areas are known for their stunning views and their proximity to NASA facilities, which might excite space enthusiasts or families with kids interested in space exploration.

You’ll see the coastline, the marina, and potentially spot local wildlife. The tour encourages you to keep an eye out for birds and marine animals—a real treat if you’re into bird watching or just love observing nature. The vessel’s open water setting makes for a relaxing, sun-drenched experience, perfect for unwinding.

The Experience from a Guest’s Perspective

One reviewer, Christine from the UK, shared a disappointing experience. She wrote, “We turned up at the pickup location and no one showed up… we called 6 times and left 3 voicemails and no one called back. Was it a scam?” While this is an isolated case, it highlights the importance of confirming details and being prepared for potential miscommunications.

On the positive side, those who did enjoy the cruise appreciated how beautiful the views were and how relaxing the trip felt. The small group size likely enhances the experience, making it easier to take photos and enjoy personalized attention from the captain.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts 7 hours in total, though the boat ride itself is just 2 hours. The remaining time might be allocated for transportation, waiting, or other logistical aspects, so it’s worth confirming what’s included when booking. The live English-speaking guide ensures you can ask questions and learn about local points of interest.

Booking flexibility is a plus, with options to reserve now and pay later, plus free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. This flexibility is valuable if your plans are still in the air.

Price and Value

At $250 per group, this experience can be a good deal for small groups seeking a private, scenic cruise. The personalized nature of a captain-led boat ride, combined with the potential for wildlife sightings and scenic views, offers a good balance of cost and enjoyment. However, this price might seem steep if you’re expecting a guided tour with detailed commentary or more extensive stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, enjoy scenic coastal views, and prefer a small-group setting with a captain at the helm, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially appealing for families, couples, or friends wanting a laid-back, intimate experience.

That said, be aware that logistical issues like no-shows have been reported, so it’s wise to double-check confirmation details and arrive prepared.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Cocoa Beach boat tour offers a beautiful, peaceful experience on Florida’s east coast, perfect for those who value scenery and wildlife over structured activities. The small group size enhances the intimacy and allows for more personalized interactions with the captain, adding a special touch.

However, the potential for no-shows or communication issues as highlighted by a disappointed reviewer means travelers should remain cautious and confirm all arrangements beforehand. It’s best suited for easygoing travelers who are happy to enjoy a scenic cruise without too many bells and whistles.

Ultimately, if your priority is stunning views and wildlife sightings in a relaxed setting, this tour could be a good fit—just make sure to plan for some flexibility and double-check the details.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The boat ride itself is 2 hours long, but the total experience spans approximately 7 hours, including transportation and other logistics.

What is included in the price?
You get a private boat, a captain to operate it, and the chance to create fun memories. The fee is $250 per group, up to 6 people.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering good flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify, small group tours like this are generally family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy being on the water and watching wildlife.

What should I bring?
It’s wise to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and water. Since it’s an open water cruise, dress comfortably and be prepared for sun exposure.

Are there any stops or additional activities?
The tour mainly focuses on cruising and sightseeing along Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, and Port Canaveral. There are no specific mention of stops for swimming or other activities.

What wildlife might I see?
You might spot various birds and marine animals, depending on the day and conditions.

Is this tour available in the morning or evening?
Yes, it’s usually available in both morning and evening slots, allowing flexibility based on your schedule.

To sum it up, this Cocoa Beach boat tour offers a peaceful, scenic outing perfect for wildlife lovers and those seeking a calm day on the water. While logistical issues have been reported, the experience’s focus on beautiful views and intimate group size can make it a memorable part of your Florida trip—just remember to confirm your booking and arrive prepared.

You can check if your dates are available here: