MERRITT ISLAND BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A two‑hour wildlife passage aboard the Blue Dolphin through Banana River, the Canaveral Locks and Port Canaveral
A compact, 2‑hour boat tour from Kelly Park that combines near‑shore wildlife viewing with a transit through Canaveral Locks and a close look at Port Canaveral—useful for planning logistics, what to bring, and what wildlife to expect.
A two‑hour wildlife passage aboard the Blue Dolphin through Banana River, the Canaveral Locks and Port Canaveral.
Board the river tour boat Blue Dolphin at Kelly Park for a brisk, two‑hour circuit of the protected waterways around Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral. Captains Mark and Michele guide the run: you’ll thread the Banana River and Barge Canal on Merritt Island where dolphins and manatees are seen daily and a wide variety of birds forage along the mangroves, then pass through the Canaveral Locks before touring the busy docks, shrimp boats and cruise terminals of Port Canaveral.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Daily dolphin and manatee encounters in protected waters
The Banana River and the Barge Canal on Merritt Island are regular feeding and transit corridors for dolphins and manatees; birdlife is abundant and the occasional alligator can be seen along the banks.
Transit through Canaveral Locks into one of the world’s busiest ports
The tour includes a passage through the Canaveral Locks and a close sweep of Port Canaveral, where passengers view shrimp boats, cruise ships and waterfront restaurants from the water.
Blue Dolphin: a compact, comfortable vessel with amenities
The Blue Dolphin comfortably seats 49, is handicapped accessible, has an onboard restroom and a retractable roof; daily tours include complimentary drinks and snacks, with a free lunch offered on Thursday specialty tours.
What the day feels like
What the two hours feel like
The pace is relaxed but purposeful: after leaving Kelly Park the boat moves north into the Barge Canal and Banana River where eyes are on the water for dolphins and manatees, then the captain eases through Canaveral Locks and into the working harbor of Port Canaveral for up‑close views of commercial and cruise traffic.
THE WILDLIFE
Daily dolphin and manatee encounters in protected waters
The Banana River and the Barge Canal on Merritt Island are regular feeding and transit corridors for dolphins and manatees; birdlife is abundant and the occasional alligator can be seen along the banks.
THE ROUTE
Transit through Canaveral Locks into one of the world’s busiest ports
The tour includes a passage through the Canaveral Locks and a close sweep of Port Canaveral, where passengers view shrimp boats, cruise ships and waterfront restaurants from the water.
THE BOAT
Blue Dolphin: a compact, comfortable vessel with amenities
The Blue Dolphin comfortably seats 49, is handicapped accessible, has an onboard restroom and a retractable roof; daily tours include complimentary drinks and snacks, with a free lunch offered on Thursday specialty tours.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Tours run two hours.
Small personal coolers with beer, wine or other beverages are allowed; the tour also provides soft drinks and water and daily complimentary drink and snacks (Thursday tours include a free lunch).
The Blue Dolphin offers seating for up to 49, an onboard restroom, retractable roof and cup holders; passengers can expect basic comforts during the two‑hour run.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour duration is two hours.
What are the ticket rates for different ages?
Adult (ages 13–64) $40; Children (ages 3–12) $30; Seniors (65+) $35; Infants (2 & under) ride free.
Is lunch included?
A free lunch is provided on Thursday tours; other daily tours include complimentary drinks and snacks.
Can I bring alcohol or a cooler?
Small personal coolers with beer, wine or other beverages are permitted; the operator also supplies soft drinks and water.
Are specialty cruises available?
Yes—specialty options include Christmas boat parades, holiday lights, Fourth of July fireworks, rocket launch tours and summer bioluminescence cruises, among others.
Who operates the tour and what boat is used?
Space Coast River Tours operates the trips, running the river tour boat Blue Dolphin with captains Mark and Michele.