Dolphin & Manatee Paddle Tour with Three Brothers Boards

Read the full experience

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.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for beginners and those with basic paddle fitness; moderate balance and core strength helpful.

Frequently asked questions

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.

Local insights

Wildlife

West Indian manatee
Bottlenose dolphin

History

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

Conservation

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

About Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours

Three Brothers Boards Paddle Board Tours is a Merritt Island, Florida-based outfitter offering paddle sport rentals and guided wildlife tours across Florida’s east and west coasts. The company provides kayak rentals, paddle board rentals, side-by-side and single water bike rentals, and guided dolphin and manatee adventure tours in multiple destinations. Trips include Daytona Beach kayak and paddle board rentals, Daytona Beach side-by-side and single water bike rentals, and multi-hour guided dolphin and manatee tours in Cocoa Beach, Sarasota, Marco Island, and Naples. An Orlando Blue Springs manatee and natural spring tour is also offered, focused on West Indian Manatee viewing and spring ecology. Each experience is designed for a wide range of skill levels, from first-time riders to experienced paddlers. Rentals are available in flexible durations, from one hour to multi-day options where specified. Guided tours are led by local guides who combine wildlife viewing with regional history and environmental context. Safety and accessibility are emphasized through stable equipment such as nearly tip-proof water bikes and straightforward rental procedures. The offerings highlight local wildlife encounters—dolphins, manatees, sea turtles and shorebirds—while promoting responsible viewing in natural habitats. Booking options and availability vary by location and season; customers should check specific trip pages for exact durations, equipment details, reservation requirements, and to confirm launch points, safety briefings.

Base locationMerritt Island, Florida

Tours offered17+

Specialtywildlife-nature

Adventure tips

Wear reef-safe sunscreenProtect your skin and local wildlife by choosing eco-friendly sunscreen before your paddle trip.

Arrive early for paddle orientationPlan to arrive 15 minutes ahead to get comfortable with your board and safety briefing.

Bring a waterproof camera or caseCapture wildlife moments without risking gear damage on the water.

Watch for tides and water currentsTidal changes affect wildlife visibility and water conditions, so check timing before you go.

Recommended gear

Personal flotation device (PFD): Safety first — a properly fitted PFD is mandatory for all paddlers.
Waterproof dry bag: Keeps your valuables and electronics safe and dry during the tour.
Lightweight, breathable clothing: Wear moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and comfortable under Florida’s sun.
Water shoes or sandals: Protect your feet when launching and landing on sandy or rocky shores.