Discover Merritt Island’s Banana River Lagoon aboard Space Coast River Tours, where salt marshes meet busy shipping locks. This water trip pairs wildlife viewing with an insider look at Port Canaveral’s industrial heart.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; little physical exertion required as this is a guided boat tour.
Wildlife
History
The Canaveral Locks have operated since the mid-20th century, playing a key role in regional maritime transport.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain water quality and protect mangrove habitats are ongoing to support the lagoon’s fragile ecosystem amid commercial development.
Space Coast River Tours
Discover Merritt Island’s Banana River Lagoon aboard Space Coast River Tours, where salt marshes meet busy shipping locks. This water trip pairs wildlife viewing with an insider look at Port Canaveral’s industrial heart.
Space Coast River Tours operates from Merritt Island, Florida, offering guided boat cruises that showcase the natural and industrial highlights of Port Canaveral and surrounding waterways. The company runs five distinct trips: Bioluminescence Tours (a 1.5-hour evening event), Rocket Launch Tours (daytime launch-viewing with dolphin sightings and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, or BYO drinks), Northern Right Whale Info, Birding and Harbor Tour (featuring guest speaker Julie Albert aboard the Blue Dolphin), Sunset Tours (a scenic two-hour cruise through the Canaveral Locks), and special Valentine's Day and Mother's Day cruises offered twice yearly.
Each outing emphasizes wildlife viewing—especially dolphins—and educational interpretation from experienced guides. Departures launch from Merritt Island and travel through Port Canaveral, giving unique vantage points of commercial shipping, restaurant fronts, and coastal habitat. Safety and clear guest information are highlighted at booking; guests receive tour details and what to expect prior to departure. Boats accommodate adults and older children as indicated per trip descriptions, and beverages policies are specified for each experience. Space Coast River Tours showcases local marine life, birding opportunities, and astronomical spectacles such as bioluminescence, while also providing memorable views of rocket launches when schedules align. Booking options include seasonal and special-event cruises; passengers are encouraged to reserve seats early for limited-capacity trips. Reservations are available online and by phone year-round for convenience.
Base Location
Merritt Island, FL
Launch point for all tours
Tour Duration
1.5–2 hours
Short, memorable outings on the water
Tours Offered
5 distinct trips
Bioluminescence to launch viewing
Special Cruises
Twice yearly
Valentine's Day and Mother's Day
Secure seats for bioluminescence, rocket launch, sunset, birding, or holiday cruises from Merritt Island — limited capacity on specialty tours.
Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing
Birds and aquatic mammals are common along the lagoon, and binoculars help get a closer look from the boat.
Dress for sun protection
Florida’s sun can be strong even on cloudy days, so wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen before the trip.
Listen for lock operation briefings
The Canaveral Locks are operational during your tour—pay attention for explanations about their role in managing water levels and vessel traffic.
Carry water and stay hydrated
Even on shorter tours, bring a water bottle to avoid dehydration, especially during warmer months.
Sunscreen
Protects skin during extended sun exposure on open water.
summer
Binoculars
Helps spot distant wildlife and lock operations more clearly.
Water bottle
Keeps you hydrated through warm, humid conditions.
summer
Light jacket
Provides warmth against cooler winds on the water.
winter