The 9 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach isn’t just about surfboards and sand; it’s a hidden gem for those eager to explore Florida’s waterways. Whether you’re after a wildlife-filled adventure, a romantic sunset, or a private boat experience, Cocoa Beach offers a diverse range of cruises and boat tours. You can drift through the Thousand Islands, spot dolphins and manatees, or relax on a luxury catamaran—all within easy reach of town.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the nine best options, highlighting what makes each stand out. From family-friendly electric boats to luxury private charters, there’s something for every type of traveler. We’ll cover details like price, duration, and the kind of wildlife or scenery you’ll encounter. Plus, I’ll help you figure out which tour fits your interests and budget, making your decision easier in this waterside paradise.
1. Cocoa Beach: Thousand Islands Banana River Boat Cruise
Starting with the most popular, this $48 per person, 2-hour tour takes you across the Banana River Lagoon to explore the Thousand Islands. The boat itself is a spacious pontoon, offering a stable and smooth ride, perfect for wildlife viewing. Along the way, your guide shares insights into the area’s history and ecology, making it both educational and scenic. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees, and pelicans, which are common sightings. The boat includes a restroom, and beverages are available for purchase—soft drinks and alcohol—adding a little extra comfort.
This tour stands out because of its casual, family-friendly atmosphere combined with expert narration. The reviews reflect its appeal, with guests praising the crew’s friendliness and the frequent wildlife sightings. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed, informative cruise that highlights Florida’s natural beauty. The only drawback could be the 2-hour duration, which might feel short if you’re keen on a longer outing.
Bottom Line: Great value for those seeking a leisurely wildlife tour with a comfortable boat and educational edge.
2. Cocoa Beach: Banana River Sunset Cruise
For a more romantic experience, this $48 per person, 1.5-hour sunset cruise offers a peaceful way to end your day. Gliding through the Thousand Islands, you’ll witness a stunning sunset while keeping an eye out for dolphins and manatees. The boat plays relaxing music to set the mood, and you can purchase alcohol and soft drinks onboard, though no coolers are allowed.
What makes this cruise special is its focus on romance and scenic beauty. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the perfect timing for sunset, which truly transforms the water into a glowing canvas. The tour is suitable for couples or small groups wanting a quiet, beautiful ride with plenty of wildlife viewing. The small size of the boat and the informal atmosphere make it feel intimate.
Potential downside? The no coolers policy means you can’t bring your own drinks, which might be limiting if you prefer a picnic vibe. Still, the sunset views and gentle ride make it a favorite for those celebrating a special moment or simply seeking a peaceful escape.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for romantics and sunset lovers craving a tranquil, scenic cruise.
3. Dolphin/Manatee Pontoon Boat Tour with Local Expert
At $55, this 2-hour narrated tour offers an intimate look at the Indian River Lagoon with a focus on wildlife encounters. Led by a local expert, the tour takes place on a luxury 26-foot pontoon boat, providing plenty of space and comfort. The guide shares stories about the area’s ecology, history, and hidden gems—perfect for travelers who want both education and entertainment.
This tour’s highlight is its personalized approach; the small group size allows for close wildlife observation and a more engaging experience. Guests often see dolphins, manatees, birds, and even alligators. The guide’s enthusiasm and deep local knowledge elevate the experience beyond a simple boat ride.
Reviewers praise the guide’s attentiveness and the plentiful wildlife sightings. It’s especially suited for those interested in nature photography or learning about Florida’s delicate ecosystems. The value is high given the expert narration and comfortable boat—a top choice for wildlife enthusiasts. The main drawback might be the length—not ideal if you want a longer cruise, but perfect for a short, impactful trip.
Bottom Line: Best for curious travelers wanting an educational, wildlife-rich tour with a knowledgeable guide.
4. 2 Hour Guided Sunset Boat Tour of the Indian River Lagoon
This $75 per person, 2-hour cruise emphasizes a slow, relaxing ride through the Indian River Lagoon, with special attention to the dusk experience. The boat is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests. You’re encouraged to bring drinks to enjoy from the onboard cooler while marveling at the sunset and the flora and fauna along the way.
The tour passes by the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, home to over 4,000 species of plants and animals. It’s ideal for couples or small groups seeking a peaceful, scenic outing. Many guests mention seeing dolphins and manatees, with the added bonus of the sunset providing a fantastic photo opportunity. The quiet pace and informative narration make it a memorable, laid-back experience.
A potential downside is the price, which is higher than shorter tours, but the luxury, accessibility, and immersive nature justify the cost. It’s a superb choice if you want a luxurious, quiet escape with wildlife and sunset views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comfortable, scenic, and accessible sunset cruise to unwind.
5. Dolphin and Manatee River Cruise Melbourne, Fl. Tour Time 1030
At just $29.99, this 1.5-hour tour offers a budget-friendly way to see dolphins, birds, and beautiful waterways. Led by a licensed captain with 25 years’ experience, you’ll get a relaxed, informative ride on a comfortable boat suitable for all ages. The focus here is on wildlife, with sightings of dolphins, great blue herons, and oysters diving.
Guests consistently compliment the captain’s knowledge and friendly approach. The tour is best suited for those who want a short, affordable wildlife experience without sacrificing expert narration or wildlife sightings. The small group size fosters an intimate atmosphere, ideal for families or couples.
The main advantage is value for money, but a downside could be the shorter duration if you’re looking for a lengthy adventure. Still, this tour covers the essentials and offers a good overview of Cocoa Beach’s coastal ecosystem.
Bottom Line: A great entry-level option that blends wildlife viewing with affordability and expert guidance.
6. Pontoon Boat Rental in Sebastian (FL) with Sebastian Adventures
For those who prefer independence, this $299 per group rental lets you captain your own pontoon boat for 4 to 8 hours. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting flexibility to explore at their own pace, with five gallons of gas included. The boat is equipped with rod holders, stereo, Bimini top, and life jackets, making it a versatile way to enjoy the waterways.
While you won’t have a guide, the self-drive aspect allows you to visit the many scenic homes, wildlife, and hidden spots along the Indian River or St. Sebastian River. The quiet, open water makes for great fishing, swimming, or simply soaking up the Florida sun.
Guests who enjoyed this rental appreciated the ease of check-in and the opportunity to create their own adventure. However, this option requires some confidence in handling a boat and navigating waterways. It’s best suited for experienced boaters or those willing to learn quickly.
Bottom Line: Ideal for independent travelers or families who want a full day of exploring on their own terms.
7. Swimming in a Dolphin and Manatee Lagoon Boat Tour
With no reviews yet and priced at $65, this 2-hour tour focuses on swimming with wildlife in the Indian River Lagoon. Led by a seasoned captain, the trip offers a chance to see dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds up close and then stop at a designated island for swimming. It’s suitable for those who want a hands-on, immersive wildlife experience.
The tour includes time for swimming, making it more active than typical wildlife cruises. Bring drinks and snacks, and enjoy a personalized adventure. The experience is best suited for adventurers who want interaction with nature, rather than just sightseeing.
Potential drawbacks include limited reviews, so we don’t have much feedback on the experience’s quality, and it may not be suitable for those uncomfortable with swimming or water activities. Its price is reasonable for the interactive aspect.
Bottom Line: A good pick for active travelers seeking a mix of wildlife viewing and swimming opportunities.
8. GoBoat Electric Cruising Boat
For a quick, family-friendly outing, this $40 electric boat rental lasts around 1 hour. The inflatable boat, powered by a reliable trolling motor, is safe and easy for kids and adults alike. It’s perfect for exploring the Indian River Lagoon at your own pace, with no experience necessary. This boat offers a fun, relaxed way to enjoy the water with minimal fuss.
Guests can simply rent and go—no guide, no complicated instructions. It’s a flexible option for small groups or families wanting spontaneity and the chance to create their own adventure. The boat includes a trolling motor, but you’ll need to bring your own snacks or drinks to enjoy during the ride.
While it lacks the guided narration of other tours, it’s excellent for those who prefer independent exploration. The main advantage is the low cost and the easy operation.
Bottom Line: Best for families or small groups wanting a casual, self-led water adventure.
9. Private Dolphin Catamaran Sail In Cocoa Beach
Finally, for a more luxurious, personalized experience, this $337.87 per group private dolphin sail offers approximately 2 hours on a spacious catamaran. It’s suitable for groups up to 6 people seeking an exclusive ride through the Banana River Lagoon. The small group size guarantees an intimate experience with plenty of opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, and vibrant coastal wildlife.
The open-air vessel provides panoramic views, and your captain will tailor the trip to your interests. Many guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to relax in comfort. The tour focuses on wildlife and scenery, making it a perfect special occasion or romantic outing.
The main downside is the higher price, but for those seeking a private, premium experience with flexible scheduling, it’s worth the investment. Book early, as availability is limited for this exclusive tour.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a private, upscale wildlife cruise with all the comforts of a luxury vessel.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Cocoa Beach
When selecting your ideal boat tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical comfort level. If wildlife sightings are your priority, tours like the Dolphin/Manatee Pontoon or the Eco-Tour provide detailed narration and frequent animal encounters. For a romantic sunset or special occasion, the Sunset Cruise offers a relaxed, scenic ride. Families or those wanting flexibility might prefer the self-guided pontoon rental or the electric GoBoat.
Booking ahead is recommended, especially in peak season (winter and spring). Check for availability, and consider the time of day—early morning and late afternoon often yield the best wildlife sightings. Remember, some tours include onboard amenities like drinks or swimming, so choose based on what experience you want.
Final Thoughts
Cocoa Beach offers a surprisingly diverse range of boat experiences. From educational wildlife cruises to luxury private sails, there’s a match for nearly every preference and budget. If you’re after a family adventure, the self-drive pontoon or electric boat are excellent options. For romantic evenings, the sunset cruise provides atmosphere and stunning views. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the eco-tours and chartered trips with expert guides.
For those planning ahead, booking early is wise—these tours fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Whether you want an up-close wildlife encounter, a peaceful sunset sail, or a self-powered boat day, Cocoa Beach’s waterways promise memorable moments with a dose of Florida’s natural charm.