Manatee Discovery Anna Maria Island
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
If you've ever wanted to witness the wonder of manatees in their natural habitat, our Manatee Discovery Tour is the perfect choice for you. What sets our activity apart is the opportunity to embark on a kayaking journey specifically designed to encounter these magnificent creatures. Led by our experienced naturalists, our small group guided tours last for 2 hours and take place in the Anna Maria Island/Bradenton area, where manatees are commonly spotted. As you explore the serene waters, keep your eyes peeled for not only manatees, but also dolphins, ospreys, and other local wildlife that may make an appearance. It's an extraordinary experience, so come join us and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travelers should bring their own water and snacks
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
If you've ever dreamed of spotting a manatee in its natural habitat, you're in luck! Our Manatee Discovery Tour offers a unique kayaking experience that allows you to witness these majestic creatures up close. Led by our experienced naturalists, these small group guided eco-tours last for 2 hours and take place in the beautiful Anna Maria Island/Bradenton area, where manatees are frequently seen. As you paddle along, keep an eye out for dolphins, ospreys, and other fascinating local wildlife that may cross your path. It's an adventure you won't want to miss! Please note that we use tandem kayaks. If there is a solo customer or odd numbered group we will set up one single kayak to accommodate. We use tandem kayaks to reduce our footprint in the manatees environment making sure we do our best to not disturb them. Please call with any questions or requests.
What‘s Included
Paddles
Life jackets
Kayaks
Dry bags
Options
Manatee Discovery Anna Maria Island
Reviews
407 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
We had a fantastic time!...
Sara J,Apr 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a fantastic time! My husband and I took our 3 young kids and the company was more than accommodating! The guides (Ben, Jackson and Andrew) were amazing- very knowledgeable about the area/wildlife and also so kind/interactive with our kids! We were lucky enough to see both dolphins and manatees on our tour. Would highly recommend for a family activity!!
Awesome
jennifermU651NS,Apr 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our group had a great time! Lachlan and Logan were great tour guides! Would definitely recommend.
Chase the GOAT
Connector28321864751,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had an amazing time and would 100% reccomend doing this and when we were all the way in the back Chase helped us and then we ended up learning how to do it and finished first so shout out to Chase -The Alexis
Manatee sighting kayak with crabs and dolphins
matthiasbU8636CT,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Was lit as heck, blaze caught a monster crab with bare hands, crab was as big as size 11 shoe “men’s”. He’s a real d o double g, basically drug along two kayaks the entire time too 🗿 real G fo that, also found a manatee, he’s the guy frfr
Great tour
Candice R,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Kayaking can be strenuous at times but overall great experience. Saw dolphins and manatees. Tour guide very knowledgable about wildlife. Went to spots that were picturesque.
Guided manatee kayak trip
Mellissa M,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is not a leisurely kayak trip. You will have to work it at times, not like white water rafting, but when going past the bridge the current is strong. Our guide, Ben, was so knowledgeable about the area, the wildlife and even about the snail and some huge clam like thing we found on the sandbar. He was so nice, funny and really seems to enjoy what he does. He made sure that nobody got left behind, that everyone was okay, when we had moments to slow down, he encouraged everyone to drink some water. He even made sure everyone had water and kept offering us his- if someone didn't have enough. We were able to see a manatee, even if only for a few seconds. But it's wildlife, so they can't control it. The guide that went out before us would call Ben and tell him where they saw one, so that's where we headed. We stopped on the sandbar, that was really nice as well. It was a great adventure ( even our 18 year olds enjoyed it!) and I would definitely recommend!!
Yia yia's challenge
Diane F,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Tour guides were awesome! Funny, engaging, informative and strong as i needed help getting and out of the kayak. Would not recommend for seniors as activity level is high!
Manatees and more
43kariw,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had an amazing kayak tour with Ben! We got up close with two different manatees during the trip and as an extra bonus got to see some crabs and sand dollars at one of the sandbars. Ben was really knowledgeable about the manatees and other local wildlife and made the tour fun and interesting. Highly recommend!
Best kayak tour ever!
The M,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had a great experience with Christian and Andrew! They were extremely polite, helpful and entertaining. We got to see adorable manatees, it was such a fun trip!
Active vacation!
Sabinawr,Mar 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had great time! Blaze and Kinsey could not be better. We come bit late and they were extremely accommodating. Tour was very relaxing and fun. We had good exercise and great time on the beach. Although we did not see manatees we had wonderful time and will take a tour again when back on the island. I do recommend to take this nice brake from doing nothing at the beach and join the kayaking tour!
From US$55.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Florida Blue Adventures