Manatee Paddleboard and Kayak Experience in Fort Lauderdale

Embarking on a Manatee Tour on kayaks and paddle boards along the Middle River in Fort Lauderdale offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Florida’s aquatic ecosystems. This tour is specifically designed to explore the natural habitat where manatees, often called “sea cows,” are known to frequent.

Manatees and Their Migration: Manatees are large, gentle marine mammals that thrive in warm, shallow waters. They migrate south during the winter months to escape the colder temperatures in the northern parts of Florida. The warmer waters of the Middle River, which maintain a comfortable temperature, become a haven for these creatures from November through March. Manatees seek out these areas to avoid the cold stress that can occur when water temperatures drop below 68 degrees Fahrenheit, which can be harmful or even fatal to them.

Note: Manatee live in the wild and are not captivated to be in any specific location.  Our Guide(s) have experience with the eating and traveling habits to improve our chances of spotting a Manatee which frequently are see near the Mangroves on our Island City ECO Paddle.  We also have a good eye on how to spot these gentle plant eaters by the patterns of the water as they move thru our waterways and our goal is to point them out for you.  WE MAKE NO GUARANTEES that you will see a Manatee as any given day they can travel anywhere and are not always in plain sight.  We respect these lovable beings and enjoy the are of exploration.  Manatee season gradually begins in November and has a gradual end in March, however we have spotted them year round and know that PEAK SEASON is Late-December thru Mid-February.   

• Tropical Birds: Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of bird species such as Green, Blue, and Yellow-Crowned Night Herons, Egrets, Ibis, Doves, Eagles, Spoonbills, Mockingbirds. Parrots, and Pelicans that thrive in the local mangroves and waterways.
• Tropical Palm Trees: The landscape is dotted with lush, towering palm trees, adding to the exotic feel of the journey.
• Tropical Landscapes: The scenic views include both natural and urban elements, with luxurious homes along the riverbanks contrasting with the untouched beauty of the natural surroundings.
• Mangroves: These ecosystems are vital for the area, acting as nurseries for numerous marine species and providing habitat for wildlife. You’ll paddle near or through these dense, root-tangled forests.
• Iguanas: Spot the vibrant green iguanas basking in the sun on branches or along the shore, adding a splash of color to your tour.
• Tropical Marine Life:  Don’t be surprised if a fish flies out of the water, or a giant Tarpon passes you, and even a rare Dolphin.

Destination – Nature Preserve: The tour culminates at a 9.3-acre nature preserve, where the natural beauty of Florida is preserved. This area offers a peaceful retreat from the urban environment, providing a chance to see more wildlife, enjoy a quieter paddle, or simply appreciate the tranquility of the setting.

Educational and Recreational Elements: Guides on these tours are knowledgeable, often sharing insights about manatee biology, the local ecosystem, and conservation efforts. They’ll help you recognize signs of manatee presence and educate you on how to respect these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.

The tour not only focuses on spotting manatees but also on enjoying the journey. Each paddle stroke through the water is an opportunity to engage with South Florida’s rich biodiversity. Whether or not you see a manatee, the experience is enriched by the sights, sounds, and stories of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

In summary, a Manatee Tour on the Middle River is a blend of wildlife watching, nature exploration, and educational adventure, where the beauty of the journey itself is as captivating as the possibility of spotting a manatee.