Set sail on a private sunset cruise with Banana River Boat Tours in Merritt Island and enjoy breathtaking views, vibrant wildlife, and the peaceful serenity of Florida’s waterways as the sun sets. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical effort involved
Wildlife
History
Merritt Island has a rich history as a launch site for NASA space missions, with some launch pads nearby that date back to the Mercury and Apollo programs.
Conservation
Banana River Boat Tours supports local conservation efforts, practicing eco-friendly boating and wildlife protection to preserve the area’s natural beauty.
Banana River Boat Tours
Set sail on a private sunset cruise with Banana River Boat Tours in Merritt Island and enjoy breathtaking views, vibrant wildlife, and the peaceful serenity of Florida’s waterways as the sun sets. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing adventure.
Banana River Boat Tours operates guided boat experiences launching from Merritt Island, Florida, on the Indian River Lagoon. The company offers a range of scenic and natural-history-focused trips that showcase the biodiversity of Florida's Space Coast and the unique nighttime phenomenon of bioluminescence.
Banana River Boat Tours provides a two-hour Eco Tour aboard The Opa and The Lola, exploring the Indian River Lagoon and its habitats. On the Eco Tour, guests can encounter the area's rich wildlife — more than 4,200 species are part of the lagoon's documented biodiversity — while enjoying scenic views of the Space Coast. Refreshments are provided on the Eco Tour.
For nighttime experiences, Banana River Boat Tours offers bioluminescence options, including a private 1.5-hour Bioluminescence Late Tour that lets passengers glide through glowing waters and view dolphins, fish, and manatees in a natural light display. The Bioluminescence Late Tour is described as accessible to everyone and is positioned as a relaxation-focused, memorable nature experience. The company also lists a Bioluminescence Early Tour and Sunset Cruises among its offerings.
Banana River Boat Tours emphasizes natural observation on the Indian River Lagoon and curates experiences aimed at capturing memorable wildlife moments and coastal scenery. All descriptions here are grounded in the listed tour offerings and location details for the business.
Location
Merritt Island, FL
Launching on the Space Coast
Vessels
The Opa, The Lola
Named boats used on Eco Tour
Tours Offered
4
Four distinct tour options available
Wildlife Encounters
4,200+ species
Indian River Lagoon biodiversity noted
Reserve an Eco Tour, bioluminescence cruise, or Sunset Cruise from Merritt Island for a nature-focused Space Coast outing.
Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing
Enhance your experience by spotting elusive birds and marine animals with binoculars provided or your own.
Wear layered clothing
Temperatures can drop quickly after sunset, so dress in layers to stay comfortable during the cruise.
Arrive early for the best sunset views
Getting on board 15-20 minutes before the scheduled time ensures you find a great vantage point for sunset photography.
Stay seated during the cruise
For safety and the best wildlife observation, remaining seated helps keep balance on the boat and allows quiet wildlife watching.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Protect yourself from sun exposure during daytime and the setting sun.
summer|null
Camera or smartphone with charger
Capture stunning sunset views and wildlife sightings during the cruise.
Light waterproof jacket
Stay dry in case of unexpected showers during the cruise.
spring|fall
Insect repellent
Prevent bug bites while relaxing on the boat, especially during warmer months.
summer