Manatees, Grasslands and Mangroves kayak Tour (Small Group Tour)

If you’re dreaming of seeing gentle manatees in their natural environment and paddling through scenic mangrove tunnels and sawgrass prairies, this kayak tour in Naples promises an authentic, peaceful adventure. With a reputation for knowledgeable guides, comfortable kayaks, and a focus on wildlife encounters, it’s a standout option for nature lovers.

What really excites us is how this tour offers a balance of serene paddling, wildlife sightings, and a touch of the local Florida charm. Plus, the smaller group size ensures a more personalized experience—great for those who prefer a quieter, less crowded outing.

One thing to keep in mind is that wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, and paddling might require a bit more effort if tides or winds pick up. This tour is best suited for active travelers who appreciate a bit of physical activity and are genuinely interested in wildlife.

Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: The tour is designed to give you the best chance to see manatees, alligators, and wading birds in their natural habitat.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 8 travelers, guides can offer personalized attention and detailed insights.
• Unique Route: This tour takes a less typical route, offering more solitude and a sense of discovery compared to other paddling trips.
• Comfort and Convenience: The kayaks are described as some of the most stable and comfortable on the water, along with dry bags and waterproof cases included.
• Value for Money: At $85 per person, considering the guided expertise, wildlife sightings, and included amenities, it offers a good balance of cost and experience.
• Authentic Nature Experience: The trip concludes in a small neighborhood canal where manatees bask in warm water, providing a genuine chance for sightings.

In-Depth Review of the Manatees, Grasslands, and Mangroves Kayak Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This kayak experience is tailored for those eager to observe manatees in a relatively secluded, peaceful setting. Unlike more popular or crowded spots, this route is among only two outfitters that explore this specific area, granting you a more intimate chance to connect with nature. The tour is operated by Shurr Adventures Everglades, who hold the rare “triple crown” of permits in Florida (Everglades, Naples, Marco Island), highlighting their expertise and commitment to responsible wildlife viewing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at 525 Newport Dr, Naples, where a friendly guide welcomes you and supplies all necessary gear—dry bags, waterproof phone cases, and comfortable kayaks. The trip lasts approximately three hours, which strikes a good balance between a manageable time commitment and an immersive experience.

The paddle takes you through a variety of landscapes: sawgrass prairies, mangrove tunnels, and small lakes. Each stop offers different scenery and wildlife opportunities. The sawgrass prairies are flat, open areas that showcase Florida’s wild heart, often teeming with wading birds and fish. Moving into the mangrove tunnels, you’ll navigate through narrow, twisting passages that are home to all sorts of small creatures and provide a cool, shaded respite—perfect for photography and quiet observation.

Wildlife Encounters

This tour’s main highlight is the chance to see manatees in their preferred warm water habitats. The area near the Port of the Islands is known for frequent sightings, especially in the small neighborhood canals. As one reviewer put it, “they love to bask in the warm water here”, making it an ideal spot for sightings.

Beyond manatees, you might spot alligators basking in the sun, dolphins, and various bird species feeding on fish. One reviewer highlighted guides Wade and James as being “very knowledgeable about wildlife and vegetation,” which significantly enriches the experience. Their expertise not only improves your chances of spotting animals but also offers fascinating insights into Florida’s ecosystems.

The Final Stop: Port of the Islands

The tour concludes with about half an hour spent in the Port of the Islands area, where manatees are known to linger and bask. This part of the trip adds a relaxed, almost magical finish—witnessing these gentle giants in their warm water habitat is often the highlight for many.

The Paddling Experience

While the trip offers stunning scenery, it’s important to note that tides and winds can make paddling a bit more challenging—especially if you’re paddling against a breeze or in slightly choppier water. The guides are experienced at adjusting to conditions and ensuring everyone remains comfortable and safe.

What’s Included and What to Bring

For $85, the tour includes bottled water, snacks (Cliff Bars, fruit leathers, nut mixes, fruit snacks), dry bags, waterproof phone cases, and parking fees. The kayaks are described as some of the most stable and comfortable, making them suitable even for less experienced paddlers.

It’s recommended to bring change of clothes, especially if you get wet or dirty, and water shoes or old sneakers—flip-flops are fine, but water shoes offer more grip and comfort. A towel is optional but handy if you want to dry off afterward.

Group Size and Booking

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. This smaller size fosters a more personalized experience and allows guides to provide detailed information tailored to your interests.

The tour is booked on average 8 days in advance, which indicates consistent demand and helps you plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, nature photographers, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape into Florida’s wetlands. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a small-group setting and are comfortable with moderate physical activity. If spotting manatees in a quiet, natural environment sounds appealing, then this tour fits the bill.

Not for everyone?

If you prefer a highly predictable or leisurely sightseeing tour without physical activity, or if you’re especially eager to see a wide variety of wildlife, you might find the wildlife here less predictable—though that’s part of the adventure.

Final Thoughts

This kayak tour offers a genuine chance to see Florida’s iconic manatees in their warm water habitat, combined with the beauty of grasslands and mangrove tunnels. The combination of expert guides, comfortable kayaks, and a small group size makes for a memorable, personal experience. It balances serenity and wildlife encounters, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful yet engaging outdoor activity.

While physical conditions like tides and wind may add a bit of challenge, the overall experience is highly rewarding. The tour’s value is accentuated by the chance to witness manatees basking, along with the potential sightings of alligators, dolphins, and various bird species, making it one of the most authentic wildlife experiences in Southwest Florida.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this adventure is a wonderful way to connect with nature, learn from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy some of the most beautiful wetlands around Naples.

FAQ

Do I need to be physically fit to join this tour?
Yes, the tour recommends a moderate fitness level, as paddling through tides and winds can require some effort.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately three hours, including paddling and wildlife viewing time.

Are the kayaks comfortable and stable?
Yes, the tour uses some of the most stable and comfortable kayaks available, suitable for paddlers of various experience levels.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, water shoes or old sneakers, a towel if desired, and possibly sunscreen or hat for sun protection.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, the tour provides bottled water and snacks such as Cliff Bars, fruit leathers, and nut mixes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 525 Newport Dr, Naples.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify, but given the moderate physical activity, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with paddling.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see manatees, alligators, dolphins, and various wading birds. Sightings are not guaranteed but are common in this area.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 8 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan ahead to secure your spot.

This excursion offers a fantastic blend of adventure, wildlife encounters, and the chance to enjoy Florida’s peaceful wetlands—perfect for nature lovers wanting an authentic experience with expert guides.