Navigate Florida’s wild rivers with Nature Coast Eco Tours, where manatees, dolphins, and starlit skies come alive on kayak and cruise adventures.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners with basic fitness; moderate upper body strength recommended for kayaking
Wildlife
History
Homosassa’s waterways have long supported native Seminole communities and later became refuges for wildlife amid early Florida development.
Conservation
Tours promote low-impact interaction—guides educate visitors on protecting fragile aquatic habitats and avoiding disturbance to sensitive species.
Nature Coast Eco Tours
Navigate Florida’s wild rivers with Nature Coast Eco Tours, where manatees, dolphins, and starlit skies come alive on kayak and cruise adventures.
Nature Coast Eco Tours is a Homosassa, Florida-based outfitter that offers guided kayak trips and river cruises highlighting the Nature Coast’s springs, estuaries, and wildlife. The company runs multiple experiences on the Chassahowitzka and Homosassa rivers, including kayak tours to Seven Sisters Springs and headsprings cruises where manatees congregate. Guides lead paddles and boat excursions focused on safe, respectful wildlife viewing of manatees, dolphins, otters, bald eagles and other coastal species.
Trips include seasonal manatee-focused outings, scenic sunset and full moon paddles, meteor shower night kayaks, and Gulf discovery cruises that explore barrier island estuaries. Several tours visit historic Monkey Island and offer opportunities to swim in clear spring waters such as Crack Spring and Seven Sisters Spring. A Manatee Observation Cruise includes a stop near Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park and views of the park’s underwater aquarium.
Guides emphasize environmental stewardship, wildlife behavior, and local natural history while maintaining safety and a high regard for protected species. Tours use kayaks and small cruise vessels appropriate for shallow rivers and estuary conditions. Group sizes, durations, required gear, and seasonal wildlife activity vary by trip; prospective guests should review specific trip descriptions for logistics and age or fitness requirements. Nature Coast Eco Tours’ combination of guided expertise, focused itineraries, and direct access to well-known springs and riverheads makes it a practical choice for visitors seeking wildlife-centered outdoor experiences on Florida’s Nature Coast. Booking information, seasonal availability, and safety guidelines are provided on each trip description to help guests prepare and pack.
Location
Homosassa, FL
Based on Florida’s Nature Coast
Tours Offered
10 guided trips
Kayak and river cruise options
Wildlife Focus
Manatees, dolphins, otters
Local species commonly seen
Trip Types
Day & Night
Sunset, full moon, meteor tours
Select a manatee kayak tour, sunset cruise, or night paddle — check availability and reserve a spot for an authentic Nature Coast outing.
Bring Waterproof Storage
Protect your electronics and valuables with waterproof bags or cases; guides have helpful tips for handling damp gear.
Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen
Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect sensitive waterways and aquatic wildlife during your paddle or cruise.
Arrive Early for Wildlife
Wildlife is often most active early in the morning—plan to start your trip close to dawn for the best encounters.
Stay Hydrated
Florida’s humidity can be intense; bring plenty of water, especially for kayak tours lasting multiple hours.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps your belongings dry during paddling or light splashes.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the local aquatic environment from harmful chemicals.
summer
Binoculars
Enhances distant wildlife viewing along the shoreline and river edges.
Light windbreaker
Provides protection against cooler breezes during evening or early morning tours.
fall|winter