Dolphin/wildlife boat tours

Question

Me again! My mom (71), myself and my daughter (8) will be in Cocoa Beach in mid-March. We'd love to do a boat wildlife tour - especially interested in dolphins and manatees. Any advice on the best ones? Tips for timing/place/booking? If my mom goes, we'd need something really stable as she has some mobility/balance issues. But if that isn't possible, it can just be my daughter and I. Thanks in advance!

Answer

Cocoa Beach is an excellent spot for dolphin and manatee tours, and mid-March is a great time for wildlife spotting as manatees are still in the area and dolphins are active. Since you are traveling with your mom who has mobility concerns, you'll want to focus on tours that offer stable, larger boats rather than small, fast-moving vessels.

Here are some of the best options for wildlife boat tours in Cocoa Beach:

Kayak or Canoe Tours in Banana River Lagoon: Guided eco-tours often include dolphins and manatees. They are slow-paced, very stable, and the guides are knowledgeable about local wildlife. Some operators offer tandem kayaks, which can provide extra stability for beginners.
Mid-Size Pontoon Boat Tours: Operators like Dolphin Connection or Cocoa Beach Watersports offer pontoon tours. These boats are very stable and easy to board, making them a safe option for seniors. The tours usually last 1.5-2 hours and include dolphin spotting, manatee areas, and scenic views of the Indian River Lagoon.
Small Group Catamaran or Sailing Tours: While slightly more movement, small catamaran tours offer a gentle sailing experience and usually see lots of dolphins. Some operators can accommodate your mom if she can handle a few steps and has a stable seat available.

Tips for timing and booking:

Book morning tours; dolphins are often more active early in the day, and winds are usually calmer, making the boat ride smoother.
Call ahead to ask about accessibility for seniors; many operators can reserve seats close to the center of the boat for stability.
Bring sunscreen, hats, and water. Even on short tours, the Florida sun is strong, and having water and light snacks can keep everyone comfortable.
Advance booking is recommended for mid-March as it is a popular travel time, especially for family-friendly tours.

Overall, for a family including a senior with mobility concerns, a pontoon boat tour of the Indian River Lagoon or Banana River Lagoon is the safest and most enjoyable way to see dolphins and manatees without worrying about stability, while still offering great wildlife viewing opportunities for all ages.

Dolphin/wildlife boat tours

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