Manatees are simply incredible creatures. These mammals are huge, unique, and remarkably curious. They’re, without a doubt, one of the most interesting animals you’re likely to stumble across. Now, if you’re in Orlando, Florida, you’ve got a golden opportunity to see these majestic creatures. However, you’ve got to know just the right place to look!
I’ll be highlighting my top manatee tours in Orlando below!
The Coolest Manatee Tours in Orlando Right Now
Many people don’t realize that Florida is one of the best places in the world to see these animals and so they miss out on the chance when they’re around. The next time you’re in the Sunshine State, be sure to give one (or all) of the following places a look!
#1 – Clear Kayak or Paddleboard Manatee Adventure
Location: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488
You can watch these wonderful animals with a glass between you two. Or, you could get thrown right in the thick of things and get as close to these creatures as possible!
The Clear Kayak or Paddleboard Manatee Adventure experience puts you on a kayak and helps you get an insider’s perspective on how manatees live their everyday lives. In addition to providing you with an experienced local guide, you also get a free bag to keep your phone and other valuables safe and dry. As an added perk, you’ll get to see lots of other wildlife, like turtles and monkeys, on your tour.
The entire experience is wholesome and makes a great trip for just you or the whole family.
#2 – Manatee Adventure, Airboat, Lunch, Wildlife Park with Transport
Location: 8707 Vineland Avenue, Orlando, FL 32821
I recommend this particular trip for true manatee fans. This is because only a few other tours offer the level of closeup you’ll be getting here. To start with, it’s a tour that takes you all the way from Crystal River to the Withlacoochee. While it’s a bit pricier, I’d definitely suggest you get the full tour package, as this entitles you to a free snorkeling session with the manatees! In addition to that, you can also expect to see tons of other wildlife, including flamingos and alligators, at the Homosassa Springs State Park.
#3 – Orlando Manatee and Natural Spring Adventure Tour at Blue Springs
Location: 2399 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
This region is commonly regarded as one of the safe zones for manatees in Orlando. This manatee refuge comes with stunning scenery and the guided tour offers a truly enjoyable experience. In addition to your manatee sighting, you also get to take a free kayak lesson and spot other creatures like sandhill cranes, turtles, and bald eagles.
The only downside for me is it’s a 2-hour trip. So, you mightn’t have as much time as you’d like with these creatures. Outside that, you’re sure to have a blast here!
What to Remember
You’ll be getting pretty close to these animals, so it’s important not to get too excited and lose yourself. Just take a few pictures and leave; don’t feed or touch the manatees, as this can upset their ecosystem.
With that said, happy manatee sightseeing!
