Dolphin & Manatee Adventure Kayak Tour
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. Your voice may reach a new octave as you ooh and ahh, but you can be sure they’ll just keep doing their adorable and friendly (but curious) thing.
What to Bring
- • Water Shoes
- • Towels
- • Snacks
- • Quick Dry Clothes
- • Bug Spray
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes on the water
Season: Available Year Round
Facts About Dolphins
It’s no surprise why so many love dolphins. These beautiful mammals have a charming spirit and appearance that’s easy to appreciate. There are currently more than 40 species of dolphins, but the bottlenose dolphin is the one you’ll most likely see during your time in Florida.
Dolphins have a lifespan of 20+ years, depending on the species. Orcas, also known as Killer Whales, are the largest species in the dolphin family. Females have a maximum lifespan of up to 90 years in their natural habitat, and males have a maximum lifespan of up to 60 years.
Facts About Manatees
Manatees also referred to as sea cows, are adorable, gentle, gray mammals. Florida manatees are specifically native to The Sunshine State. They can weigh a whopping 3,000+ pounds and like to spend their time in many Florida waterways, including rivers and along the coast.
Best Time to See Manatees in Florida
The end of fall through early spring, typically November through April, is usually the best time of the year to see manatees in Florida. Watch for them as we glide through the waters during your kayaking tour of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Happily chomping on seagrass, manatees live in tandem with many bird species and other wildlife.
Why Should You Choose a Day Away Kayak Tours?
A Day Away Kayak Tours prides itself on combining outdoor adventure with education. We’ve been operating for over a decade and have used our extensive experience to develop popular kayaking tours, including sunset bioluminescence kayaking tours and manatee and dolphin daytime tours, that let our guests have memorable experiences.
We’re lucky to have knowledgeable guides who help the tours go safely and smoothly while providing ample knowledge about the area and animals you’ll see in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Safety is paramount, and all guests must wear life vests.