Dolphin & Manatee Tours by Three Brothers Boards in Merritt Island - Orlando

Dolphin & Manatee Tours by Three Brothers Boards in Merritt Island

Orlandoeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for beginner to moderate fitness levels; basic paddling ability recommended

Overview

Join Three Brothers Boards on kayak and paddle board tours around Merritt Island, Florida, offering close-up views of dolphins and manatees alongside deep dives into Olde Florida history. Discover why this local outfitter is unique in delivering wildlife encounters with cultural insights.

Details

Merritt Island, Florida, sits along the dynamic Atlantic coast, where estuaries and waterways create a mosaic of habitats for dolphins, manatees, and a variety of coastal life. Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours delivers immersive encounters with this thriving aquatic environment through guided dolphin and manatee tours, kayak and paddle board rentals, and historic Olde Florida-themed excursions across nearby hotspots such as Marco Island, Naples, Cocoa Beach, and New Smyrna Beach. Their offerings provide a layered experience combining wildlife viewing with rich regional history rooted in Florida’s early settlement tales.

The standout feature of these tours is how they bring travelers close to endangered West Indian manatees and playful bottlenose dolphins in calm coastal inlets and freshwater springs like Orlando’s Blue Springs State Park. The clear waters and gentle currents create ideal vantage points to see these marine mammals in action while paddling. Alongside wildlife, guests encounter the quiet beauty of mangrove forests, sandy shorelines, and salt marshes shaping this landscape.

Three Brothers Boards also serves Daytona Beach and Orlando with single and tandem kayak rentals, water bikes, and paddle boards. These rental options appeal to self-guided adventurers who want to absorb Florida’s waterways at their own pace.

What sets these tours apart is the blend of wildlife engagement and cultural storytelling—each tour weaves local history, from indigenous tribes to Spanish exploration, giving visitors insight into the human narratives layered over this ecosystem. The company’s deep regional knowledge and commitment to sustainable, respectful wildlife interaction make it a standout partner for experiencing Florida’s coastal habitats responsibly.

For travelers based near Merritt Island hoping to connect with Florida’s natural aquatic heritage, Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours offers an authentic window into the region’s ecological and historical pulse. Whether through guided wildlife tours or independent paddling excursions, it’s an invitation to witness and appreciate one of Florida’s most vibrant marine environments firsthand.

Adventure Tips

Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect both yourself and marine life by choosing eco-friendly sunscreen to apply before heading out on the water.

Bring a Dry Bag

Keep your phone, camera, and valuables dry with a waterproof bag, especially useful during kayak or paddle board tours.

Maintain a Respectful Distance from Wildlife

Avoid approaching manatees and dolphins too closely; let them come to you to ensure safe, non-intrusive viewing experiences.

Wear Quick-Dry Clothing

Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that dry quickly to stay comfortable during water activities and unexpected splashes.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet mangrove tunnels near Merritt Island
  • Secluded spots at Blue Springs State Park

Wildlife

  • West Indian manatees
  • Bottlenose dolphins

History

The tours incorporate stories of Florida’s early settlers and Native American tribes, revealing layers of human history along the waterways.

Conservation

Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife habitats by maintaining distance and following all local environmental guidelines to minimize impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early morning before crowds
Late afternoon light

Best Viewpoints

  • From paddle board near manatee springs
  • Along coastal mangrove shorelines
  • On the water facing open estuary

What to Photograph

Manatees resting
Dolphins breaching
Sunlight filtering through mangroves

Recommended Gear

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Essential

Mandatory for safety on all kayaks and paddle boards.

Waterproof Phone Case

Protects electronics and enables hands-free photos while on the water.

Hat with Brim

Essential

Provides sun protection during long daylight hours.

summer specific

Lightweight Paddle Gloves

Reduce hand fatigue and blisters during paddling.

spring|fall specific