Wild Side Tours of Cocoa Beach, Florida

Seems like every time we head to Florida we talk about some horizon-blotting, ecological footprint-having, multimillion dollar man-made thing – from Disneyworld to Universal Studios to the Kennedy Space Center. Don’t get me wrong, we love’em, but I thought we’d take a step back this time and let the natural beauty of the Florida coastline speak for itself. It’s time to check out the Wild Side Tours of Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Okay, so the boat is certainly man-made, but the scenery is pure Mother Nature. The Wild Side Tours Company boasts a catalog of nature, sunset and variety tours highlighting the Thousand Islands nature reserve near Cocoa Beach, Florida. Load up on a cozy 22-passenger catamaran and listen to the relaxing tones of the shoreline, the coastal birds and Captain Ben, a retired science teacher and all-round Florida enthusiast.

From the Banana River to the Thousand Islands, the estuaries of the Indian River support a more diverse ecology than anywhere else in the United States, and thanks to the smaller format of the tour, Captain Ben can take you closer than any other.

The sight and sounds of the daily cruises varies by the season. Right now, expect to see vibrant flocks of tropical birds, the splashing of playful dolphins and, through the end of October, the blubbery sea cow itself, the manatee. During the height of the summer season, the area population of manatees bloats to one of the largest along our national coastline, making for some great sightseeing opportunities. (And don’t worry, Captain Ben knows how to drive for the safety of both passengers and aquatic friends below).

From November to May, called the dry season, sunset cruises are especially popular. The radiant beauty of the Florida coast and the Thousands Islands at sunset should be on everyone’s life time must-see list. Captain Ben also hosts the occasional variety tour, like shuttle launch viewings. Again, the boat only holds 20 paying passengers, so request tickets early for these events (check the calendar on the Web site for upcoming events).

Wild Side Tours also offers fishing tours (once again, Captain Ben proves the able professional) as well as private charters for everything from professional nature photography groups to unforgettable birthday parties.

Regular cruises last 2 – 2 ½ hours and cover 10-15 miles. Regular adult admission is $32. Learn more about Wild Side Tours of Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Stay just a few minutes from the dock, and enjoy a comfortable family hotel in Cocoa Beach, at the Holiday Inn Cocoa Beach Resort Hotel. This surprisingly affordable property feature amenities well beyond your average Holiday Inn, including extensive sports and game facilities.

Have fun!

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