Paddle Board or Kayak Eco Dolphin Manatee Tour

Embark on an unforgettable paddling adventure through the Banana River Aquatic Preserve. Glide alongside playful dolphins and gentle manatees as you explore a 30,000-acre habitat teeming with diverse wildlife. Guided by experts, you’ll discover the delicate ecosystems of seagrass beds and mangrove forests, while learning about the importance of conserving these natural wonders. Whether you choose a paddle board or kayak, this 2-hour tour offers an accessible way to connect with the beauty of Florida’s aquatic world. But the true highlight? Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Good To Know

• An eco-friendly paddle board or kayak tour in the Banana River Aquatic Preserve, Florida, offering the opportunity to observe endangered manatees and playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
• Experienced instructors provide guidance, demonstrations, and personalized attention for participants of all skill levels, ensuring a safe and immersive wildlife experience.
• The tour covers a 30,000-acre area with diverse ecosystems, including seagrass beds, mangrove forests, and saltwater marshes, allowing visitors to learn about the delicate coastal region.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller-friendly, and welcomes service animals, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.
• The tour has a high recommendation rate of 98% from previous travelers, with an average rating of 4.9/5, indicating a consistently enjoyable and informative experience.

Tour Overview

The "Paddle Board or Kayak Eco Dolphin Manatee Tour" offers a unique opportunity to explore the scenic Banana River Aquatic Preserve in Merritt Island, Florida.

The 2-hour tour starts at 9:00 AM and takes place in a 30,000-acre preserve that’s home to endangered manatees year-round.

With a 98% recommendation rate from 94 travelers, the tour boasts a 4.9/5 rating based on feedback.

Expert instructors guide participants throughout the experience, which includes spotting manatees, dolphins, fish, and diverse bird species.

Both stand-up paddleboards and kayaks are provided, along with necessary gear, making the tour accessible to a wide range of participants.

Wildlife Experience

While exploring the 30,000-acre Banana River Aquatic Preserve, participants can spot a variety of wildlife, including endangered manatees that call this region home year-round. These gentle giants are often seen gracefully swimming or resting near the surface. Alongside the manatees, guests may encounter playful dolphins, an array of vibrant fish, and diverse bird species that thrive in the preserve’s lush mangrove forests and wetlands.

Expert guides provide valuable insight and assistance throughout the tour, ensuring an educational and immersive wildlife experience.

Habitat and Ecosystem

Spanning 30,000 acres, the Banana River Aquatic Preserve where this tour takes place is a thriving, protected ecosystem.

Home to endangered manatees year-round, the preserve boasts diverse habitats like seagrass beds, mangrove forests, and saltwater marshes.

These environments support a wealth of wildlife, from dolphins and fish to a variety of bird species.

Expert guides share their knowledge, ensuring guests gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of this unique coastal region.

The tour’s intimate and eco-friendly approach allows visitors to connect with the preserve’s natural wonders in a responsible manner.

Guided Instruction

Experienced instructors provide in-depth guidance and support throughout the tour, ensuring guests feel comfortable and safe on the water.

They demonstrate proper paddling techniques, offer tips for navigating the waterways, and share their knowledge of the local ecosystem.

Whether guests choose a stand-up paddleboard or kayak, the instructors provide personalized attention, helping everyone navigate the calm and scenic Banana River.

With their expertise, guests can focus on spotting manatees, dolphins, and diverse birdlife without worrying about the logistics.

The instructors’ leadership allows participants to fully enjoy the natural wonders of the preserve.

Equipment and Gear

The tour provides all the necessary equipment for participants, including stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. Both options are suitable for exploring the calm waters of the Banana River Aquatic Preserve.

All required gear, such as life jackets and paddles, is included. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and strollers are welcome.

Participants are advised to wear water shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect themselves from the Florida sun.

The tour company ensures a comfortable and safe experience for all guests, allowing them to focus on the wildlife they’ll encounter during the excursion.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, accommodating visitors of all abilities.

Service animals are welcome aboard the paddleboards and kayaks. All necessary equipment, including life jackets, is provided.

The launch site and facilities, including restrooms, are also wheelchair accessible. This ensures everyone can comfortably and safely enjoy the eco-tour and observe the diverse wildlife.

The expert instructors are knowledgeable and happy to assist participants of all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a first-timer, this inclusive tour offers an unforgettable experience in the Banana River Aquatic Preserve.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point for the Paddle Board or Kayak Eco Dolphin Manatee Tour is located at 400 S Sykes Creek Pkwy, Merritt Island, FL 32952, behind the Veterans Memorial Museum.

Free parking is available near the launch site. Restrooms are located inside the Veterans Memorial Museum, providing a convenient option before or after the tour.

The meeting point is easily accessible, making it simple for guests to find and begin their paddleboard or kayak adventure.

With the necessary facilities and parking available, the logistics of this tour are well-organized to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Pricing for the Paddle Board or Kayak Eco Dolphin Manatee Tour starts from $79.00 per person. The tour’s group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers to ensure an intimate and personalized experience. Cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. This policy offers flexibility and peace of mind for guests.

The combination of competitive pricing and a generous cancellation policy makes this tour an attractive option for nature enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad During the Tour?

If the weather is bad during the tour, the operator will promptly cancel it for safety reasons. Guests will be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule for another day with better conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Paddleboard or Kayak?

Participants can’t bring their own paddleboards or kayaks for the tour. The tour provides all necessary equipment, including stand-up paddleboards and kayaks, along with safety gear. This ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Is Food and Drink Provided During the Tour?

The tour does not provide food or drink. Participants are recommended to bring their own water and snacks to enjoy during the excursion. This allows guests to personalize their experience and stay hydrated throughout the activity.

Can I Use My Own Camera or Drone on the Tour?

Guests are allowed to bring their own cameras, but drones are not permitted on the tour for safety and environmental reasons. The tour provider has strict policies in place to protect the wildlife and preserve the natural habitat.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The minimum age requirement for participants is not specified. However, the tour is suitable for all ages, with equipment and accessibility options available to accommodate a range of participants.

The Sum Up

This Paddle Board or Kayak Eco Dolphin Manatee Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural wonders of the Banana River Aquatic Preserve. With expert guidance, participants can paddle alongside dolphins and manatees, while learning about the delicate ecosystems of the region. Accessible to all skill levels, this 2-hour adventure provides an unforgettable connection with Florida’s vibrant aquatic life.