Join Riverside Tours on a leisurely 2-hour cruise along the Manatee River, where wildlife, history, and humor come together in a relaxing water adventure. Discover why this trip is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, especially during Florida’s cooler months.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical effort required
Wildlife
History
The Manatee River area has a history rooted in phosphate mining and shipping, which shaped local industry and communities.
Conservation
Riverside Tours actively participates in local conservation efforts, promoting sustainable tourism and habitat preservation.
Riverside Tours
Join Riverside Tours on a leisurely 2-hour cruise along the Manatee River, where wildlife, history, and humor come together in a relaxing water adventure. Discover why this trip is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, especially during Florida’s cooler months.
Riverside Tours is a Palmetto, Florida-based boat tour operator offering a lineup of two-hour cruises on the Manatee River and along the Bradenton Riverfront. The company runs a mix of narrated educational tours, family-friendly morning outings, evening sunset cruises and seasonal special-event sails. Each trip is guided or accompanied by knowledgeable crew members who provide local history, ecological context and commentary on native wildlife sightings.
Trips highlighted in Riverside Tours’ regular schedule include a Cooler Morning Cruise for families and early risers, a Sunset Trip for evening views and city lights, and a Down River Day Trip that focuses on the river’s ecology and history with light-hearted narration. Seasonal offerings include a Jimmy Buffett Sunset Tribute featuring live music and a Christmas Boat Parade cruise that places passengers close to festive decorated boats for prime photo opportunities. All advertised cruises are two hours in duration, making them accessible options for residents and visitors seeking a concise on-water experience.
Riverside Tours operates from Palmetto with departures that serve passengers interested in wildlife observation, waterfront sightseeing and community events on the river. The combination of consistent two-hour formats, narrated educational content, specialty music events and curated holiday cruises contributes to the operator’s appeal for both families and guests seeking memorable, photo-friendly outings on the Manatee River.
Location
Palmetto, FL
Launch point on the Manatee River
Trip Length
2 hours
Consistent duration across all tours
Tours Offered
5 tours
Varied options on the Manatee River
Special Events
Holiday & tribute cruises
Seasonal cruises and themed sails
Secure seats for Cooler Morning Cruise, Sunset Trip, narrated Down River Day Trip or seasonal boat events — book now for prime riverfront views.
Bring Sunscreen and Hat
Protect yourself from sun exposure during the cruise, especially if the weather is clear and warm.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can vary, so wear layers that you can add or remove easily during the trip.
Arrive Early
Arriving 15 minutes before the start ensures you get settled and don’t miss any part of the narration.
Bring Binoculars or Camera
Enhance wildlife viewing and capture scenic moments along the river.
Sun Protection
Wearing a hat and applying sunscreen will help you stay comfortable during the cruise.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Camera or Binoculars
Capture wildlife moments or scenic views along the river.
Light Jacket
A light jacket can help keep you warm during cooler winter trips.
winter
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the warm, sunny days on the water.
summer