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Manatee and Dolphin Kayaking Encounter

Overview
It’s an encounter unlike any other as you spend the morning floating gently in the endangered manatee’s favorite lounging spots on the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. These friendly Florida herbivores just love to nuzzle, grip, and cuddle your kayak for a truly magical morning.

The kayaking adventure continues with a search for playful dolphins, often fishing actively nearby. As if beholding these majestic mammals in their element isn’t enough, you’ll likely enjoy many other Florida natives including pelicans, osprey, roseate spoonbills, horseshoe crabs, and even the occasional gator.

As visitors in the manatee’s natural habitat, you can expect to observe and study the famed Sea Cows. Keep in mind that we seek not to disturb, overwhelm, or disrupt the manatee’s natural behaviors, but rather let you experience them on their terms. 
City: Cocoa Beach
Fri 07 Feb
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $55.00
Fri 07 Feb
Starting at $55.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
Kayak
Professional guide
PFD
Paddle
2 hour kayak tour
Additional Info
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • What to bring:
  • Clothes you don’t mind getting a little wet. Towel (left in car)
  • Water Shoes – sandals or Crocs that can be worn in the water
  • Bring an extra change of clothes just in case
  • Camera & Dry bag (optional) These are fairly useless to capture bioluminescence, but great for capturing people.
  • Bottled water, Snacks
  • Any special personal paddling gear if you like
  • You may bring a flashlight, though we will provide a safety light.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (126)
Carolyn J
Nov 2018
We booked a 3-hour private tour, met our guide Brian Bowers at the Haulover Canal launch at 10am, and proceeded to ‘Bird Island’ where we saw our favorite, the Roseate Spoonbill, amongst the many others species hanging out together. Bring binoculars cuz you aren’t allowed to disturb them up close. We then headed up the canal to a spot filled with manatees, enjoying their interactions with us up close and personal! From there we paddled amongst the mangroves enjoying the peace and quiet of the Refuge, catching site of Great Blue Herons, Ospreys, and so many birds in the wild. On our way out of the canal we stopped to enjoy watching several bottlenose dolphins swimming and feeding right by us! Ask for Brian if you want a guide knowledgeable about the different species of wildlife and environment, who’s friendly and low-keyed, and cares about you having a great experience. The kayaks were top notch and comfortable which was very important. Loved spending the 3+ hours out on the water!
HavingFun2010
Oct 2018
We were able to watch manatees (maybe a dozen or so) for a good amount of time (at least 20 minutes of manatees). Able to spot dolphins in the canal, and lots of native birds in the lagoon area. Definitely needed bug spray. Our tour guide, Cody Rose, was very helpful and engaging. Weather certainly co-operated as well.
Jacquelyn T
Sep 2018
Had a great time with Cody Rose as our guide. Saw LOTS of manatees in their natural habitat as well as dolphin. Today couldn’t have been a better day. Thanks so much Cody Rose!
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