Dolphin & Manatee Paddle Tour with Three Brothers Boards

Dolphin · Merritt Island

Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Merritt Island

Paddle alongside dolphins and manatees on a 2-hour wildlife paddle tour through Merritt Island’s serene waterways. Three Brothers Boards offers an intimate, up-close Florida nature experience just minutes from Cocoa Beach.

View experience
Duration2 hours
LocationMerritt Island, Florida
OperatorThree Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours
Previously listed pricePreviously listed: USD 73.13

Adventure brief

Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Merritt Island

Paddle alongside dolphins and manatees on a 2-hour wildlife paddle tour through Merritt Island’s serene waterways. Three Brothers Boards offers an intimate, up-close Florida nature experience just minutes from Cocoa Beach.

Merritt Island, Florida, a uniquely vibrant coastal habitat along the Atlantic, offers one of the rarest wildlife experiences in the southeastern United States. Here, Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours specializes in their Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour, a two-hour journey across the waterways near Cocoa Beach where paddlers have the chance to encounter Florida’s iconic marine mammals in their natural environment. The tour glides through intricate mangrove-lined channels and between small islands, providing a chance to observe not only playful bottlenose dolphins but also the gentle West Indian manatee, a species that thrives in only a handful of habitats worldwide.

Sea turtles and a colorful array of birdlife—including pelicans and the strikingly pink roseate spoonbill—often join the paddle, making each trip a dynamic wildlife viewing adventure. Beyond the abundant fauna, the tour weaves in local history shaped by the space coast and coastal communities, enriching the paddle with stories of the land and seascape. Three Brothers Boards bring more than a decade of regional expertise, ensuring both safety and intimate knowledge to maximize the outdoor experience.

The company’s location in Daytona Beach situates it perfectly for visitors seeking a nature break from Florida’s bustling theme parks, just 45 minutes west. This tour stands out in the local outdoor recreation landscape for combining active, accessible paddling with immersive wildlife encounters in one of the last refuges for manatees. It’s a memorable, family-friendly adventure that brings paddlers up close to Florida’s natural treasures with expert guidance and respect for environmental stewardship.

For anyone wanting to paddle where dolphins dance and manatees graze amid glistening waterscapes, Three Brothers Boards offer a skilled, seasoned gateway to Merritt Island’s living wilderness.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Wear reef-safe sunscreen

    Protect your skin and local wildlife by choosing eco-friendly sunscreen before your paddle trip.

    essential
  2. 02
    Arrive early for paddle orientation

    Plan to arrive 15 minutes ahead to get comfortable with your board and safety briefing.

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  3. 03
    Bring a waterproof camera or case

    Capture wildlife moments without risking gear damage on the water.

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  4. 04
    Watch for tides and water currents

    Tidal changes affect wildlife visibility and water conditions, so check timing before you go.

    warning
DifficultyEasy
Duration2 hours
FitnessSuitable for beginners and those with basic paddle fitness; moderate balance and core strength helpful.
Technical skillsBasic paddle boarding skills, Water safety awareness

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Personal flotation device (PFD)

Safety first — a properly fitted PFD is mandatory for all paddlers.

Essential
02

Waterproof dry bag

Keeps your valuables and electronics safe and dry during the tour.

03

Lightweight, breathable clothing

Wear moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and comfortable under Florida’s sun.

summerEssential
04

Water shoes or sandals

Protect your feet when launching and landing on sandy or rocky shores.

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Sykes Creek Preserve – a quieter, less crowded spot for paddling and birdwatching nearby, Turtle Mound – an ancient shell midden site with archaeological significance accessible by kayak

Wildlife

Local fauna

West Indian manatee, Bottlenose dolphin

History

Historic heritage

Merritt Island’s waterways have supported native peoples and settlers for centuries, including habitation by the Timucua tribe and later maritime industries.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

Three Brothers Boards follows strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact on fragile ecosystems and supports ongoing manatee habitat protection efforts.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Near mangrove-lined channels where wildlife congregate, Small islands along the tour route, Open water stretches with clear skies reflected
Subjects
Wildlife close-ups, Water reflections and landscapes, Paddleboarders in action
Best times
Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Do I need previous paddleboarding experience?

No prior experience is necessary; your guide will provide a full orientation and safety briefing.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Common sightings include bottlenose dolphins, West Indian manatees, sea turtles, pelicans, and roseate spoonbills.

Are the tours suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly for all ages with stable boards and attentive guides.

What happens if wildlife is not visible?

The guides know the best spots and conditions; tours may adjust pace to improve sightings, but wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Due to the nature of paddleboarding, wheelchair access is limited, but please contact the company directly for accommodations.

Can I bring my own paddleboard?

The company provides all necessary gear to keep the tour safe and consistent; personal boards are not required.

Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours

Dolphin & Manatee Paddle Tour with Three Brothers Boards