Since 1999, Manatee Sightseeing & Wildlife Adventures has revealed the quiet magic of the Everglades from comfortable, eco-friendly boats. What began with one vessel now cruises as a small fleet, yet remains the only tour in South...
This tour operation consistently delivers memorable wildlife adventures thanks to its exceptional captains. John, Dallas, Paul, and Joe get frequent shoutouts for being knowledgeable, funny, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Guests appreciate how the guides share fascinating details about local wildlife, mangroves, and the area's history while keeping everyone entertained with their humor and engaging personalities. The tours explore the waterways around the marina and nearby islands, with several captains going the extra mile by providing polarized glasses for better viewing and even taking photos for guests. Wildlife sightings vary naturally depending on the day. Most visitors spot manatees along with alligators, dolphins, birds, and occasionally sharks or raccoons, though some trips see fewer animals than others. The sunset tours receive particular praise for stunning views. One guest felt disappointed that the route stayed closer to residential docks rather than venturing deeper into mangrove areas, but this appears to be an outlier experience. The three-hour excursions seem to hit the sweet spot for most visitors, offering enough time on the water without feeling rushed.
This was a fun tour! Captain Wes tried his best for us to see manatees and dolphins, and we did! He knew how to spot them and had us get camera ready right on time! Great photos and videos. Found some cute shells at the island, but bring bug spray because those were the biggest mosquitoes I've ever seen (they hide by the mangroves and the captain did warn us). It's pretty far and just a warning if you're taking an Uber or Lyft, it is hard to find someone to take you back 😆 so rent a car or wait an hour like I did. 5 stars for the tour though!! Thanks for a fantastic time.
Jenn Lujan
June 28, 2026
This was a fun tour! Captain Wes tried his best for us to see manatees and dolphins, and we did! He knew how to spot them and had us get camera ready right on time! Great photos and videos. Found some cute shells at the island, but bring bug spray because those were the biggest mosquitoes I've ever seen (they hide by the mangroves and the captain did warn us). It's pretty far and just a warning if you're taking an Uber or Lyft, it is hard to find someone to take you back 😆 so rent a car or wait an hour like I did. 5 stars for the tour though!! Thanks for a fantastic time.
Jenn Lujan
June 28, 2026