Everglades: Boat tour with dolphins, manatees & birds

Summary

Drifting through the Everglades with dolphins, birds & quiet moments

You’ll glide quietly through Everglades National Park’s 10,000 Islands by boat with a local guide, spotting dolphins, manatees, and rare birds up close. With only six guests per group and easy boarding included, you’ll get real stories and gentle moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

“That’s a roseate spoonbill,” our guide said, pointing just as I was fumbling with my camera strap (why do I always miss the best shots?). The boat barely made a sound as we slipped into Chokoloskee Bay — just the hush of water against the hull and the occasional squawk from somewhere in the mangroves. There was this salty, earthy smell in the air that I can’t really describe, but it stuck to my skin for hours. We’d only been out maybe ten minutes when someone spotted a dolphin fin slicing through the water. I didn’t expect to feel so giddy about it at my age, but there it was — pure excitement.

The Everglades boat tour felt nothing like those loud airboats you see on TV. Our guide, who grew up around here (he joked he could steer blindfolded — didn’t test that), knew every twist of these 10,000 Islands. He pointed out osprey nests and told us how manatees sometimes nap under the shade of mangrove roots. At one point, we drifted close enough to see a manatee’s nose break the surface — just a soft puff of breath and then gone again. It was humid but not unbearable; sun kept peeking through clouds and I kept forgetting to drink water.

I liked that there were only six of us on board — felt more like tagging along with friends than being herded around. Someone asked about pelicans and suddenly we were surrounded by them, wings flapping everywhere like some kind of feathery parade. Our guide handed out binoculars for birding (I’m still terrible at it) and shared stories about old fishing families from Chokoloskee. He even helped me down the little ladder when we boarded — small gesture but honestly appreciated since I’m not exactly graceful.

I still think about that feeling of drifting quietly between islands, watching dolphins play off in the distance while everyone went silent for a minute or two. There’s something about seeing wild animals just doing their thing that sticks with you longer than you expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Everglades National Park Boat Tour

• Two-hour boat tour in Everglades National Park
• Learn about ecosystems, wildlife, history, and culture
• Spot dolphins, eagles, ospreys, pelicans, turtles, manatees, and birds
• Small group experience limited to six guests

Top questions

How long is the Everglades boat tour?

The tour lasts approximately two hours in Everglades National Park.

Are dolphins and manatees guaranteed on this boat tour?

Sightings are common but not guaranteed since wildlife is unpredictable.

Is this Everglades tour suitable for young children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

How many people are on each boat tour?

Each tour is limited to six guests for an intimate experience.

Is pickup included for this Everglades day trip?

No hotel pickup is included; free onsite parking is provided instead.

What wildlife might I see during this Everglades boat tour?

You may see dolphins, manatees, ospreys, eagles, pelicans, herons, egrets, sea turtles, and more than 300 bird species.

Do I need to bring anything special for this trip?

It’s recommended to bring water, hats, sunglasses, cameras, and binoculars if you have them.

Is this quieter than an airboat ride?

Yes; airboats aren’t allowed here due to noise restrictions—this is a quiet boat experience.

What’s included

Your day includes free onsite parking at Chokoloskee Bay plus a quick golf cart ride from the office down to your boat. You’ll be guided by a Florida Master Naturalist throughout your two-hour journey into the heart of Everglades National Park.