Discover a one-of-a-kind eco-adventure with Coastal Marine Charters’ exclusive manatee tour in West Palm Beach, FL. Our private and small-group charters in West Palm Beach journey through the calm, shallow waters of the Lake Worth Lagoon and nearby coastal habitats, where wild West Indian manatees glide freely. From the deck of our comfortable charter boat, you’ll watch these gentle giants, graceful, curious, and wild, thriving in their natural environment, far from crowds or disruptions.
Whether you’re a local Floridian or visiting from out of state, this serene wildlife experience connects you to nature while supporting conservation awareness. With our seasoned captains and knowledgeable guides, every manatee sightseeing cruise is an unforgettable educational journey.
Conservation, Ethics, and Manatee Safety
Manatee watching should always be ethical, respectful, and safe for the animals. Coastal Marine Charters adheres to FWC and federal wildlife viewing guidelines, ensuring:
- No feeding or touching of manatees
- Maintaining a safe distance during sightings
- Using idle-speed cruising when near manatee habitats
We believe in education-driven eco-tourism. Our team shares conservation tips and ways you can help protect Florida’s marine wildlife during and after your tour.
To learn more about manatee protection guidelines, visit the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Manatee page.
Why West Palm Beach Is Ideal for Manatee Sightseeing
West Palm Beach, part of Florida’s southeast coast, is one of the state’s prime destinations for spotting manatees. These herbivorous marine mammals are especially visible during the cooler months of November through March, when they migrate into warmer inland waters. Key Reasons Manatees Thrive in the Area:
- Warm, shallow waters: Manatees seek warm refuge in areas like Lake Worth Lagoon, particularly near the discharge zones of local power plants, where temperatures are higher.
- Abundant seagrass beds: West Palm Beach’s coastal estuaries are rich in seagrass, a manatee staple that helps maintain a healthy manatee population.
- Protected zones: Many parts of the Intracoastal Waterway and Blue Heron Bridge area are slow-speed, no-wake zones, creating safe habitats for manatees by reducing boat collisions.
What to Expect on a Coastal Marine Charters Manatee Tour
Our manatee tours in West Palm Beach are thoughtfully designed to prioritize both your experience and the safety of marine life. Here’s what you’ll enjoy:
Expert-Led Wildlife Interpretation
Each manatee tour is guided by a licensed captain who shares fascinating insights into Florida manatees, their behaviors, and the surrounding ecosystem. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for marine life as you cruise through these biodiverse waters.
Relaxed, Intimate Atmosphere
Our private manatee charters in West Palm Beach offer a peaceful and personalized experience, perfect for small groups or couples. With fewer passengers, you’ll enjoy quiet observation, direct interaction with your captain, and flexible routes tailored to your interests
Scenic Cruising Around Coastal Hotspots
Our scenic manatee tours often glide past iconic spots like Manatee Lagoon, Blue Heron Bridge, the Snorkel Reef area, and Peanut Island. As we cruise through these picturesque waterways, you’ll soak in views of vibrant marine life and historic landmarks while enjoying a calm, relaxed ride through one of Florida’s most ecologically rich coastal zones..
Local Wildlife You Might See Along the Way
While manatees are the stars of the tour, many guests also encounter:
- Bottlenose dolphins: Frequently seen surfacing and playing
- Loggerhead sea turtles: Especially around Juno Beach, a known turtle nesting area
- Brown pelicans and ospreys: Nesting on markers and mangroves
- Spotted eagle rays: Occasionally gliding in shallow channels
This blend of marine life makes West Palm Beach one of Florida’s top eco-tourism destinations.
Private Manatee Tours vs. Public Tours
We specialize in private manatee sightseeing charters, offering several key advantages over large group tours:
Benefits of Private Charters:
- Customizable itinerary tailored to your interests (add a stop for fishing or a sunset cruise)
- No overbooking—you choose your guests
- Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or intimate couples cruises
- Personal attention from our crew and guides
Our clients consistently praise the exclusivity, flexibility, and personalized nature of our tours. Want to mix in a dolphin sighting or a longer stay by Manatee Lagoon? Just ask, we’ll customize your time on the water.
Memories Made on the Water
What Our Guests Say
Join the growing family of guests who have discovered the joy of coastal cruising. Let our testimonials inspire your next adventure.
Destin and Dixie were the best! We had so much fun. Destin was a great captain he knew exactly how to make our boat day a great day. Would definitely book with Destin and Dixie again and will recommend him to any and everyone! Destin’s boat was so comfortable and clean. We had plenty of space for me and 3 other people. Water floats were perfect!
Perri
Reviews
The captain is very professional, polite, and super kid friendly, and will always make sure you have an amazing time on the water. His commitment to ensuring every moment is enjoyable is clear throughout the charter. I would recommend Coastal Marine Charters to everyone I know without hesitation.
Kris Winters
Facebook Reviews
I had a wonderful time with Destin—he made every moment of our charter truly memorable with his friendly and professional approach. Destin ensured that our experience on the water was filled with fun, relaxation, and a genuine sense of adventure. I highly recommend Coastal Marine Charters to anyone looking for an exceptional water adventure.
Mike Ardizzone
Facebook Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions About Manatee Tours in West Palm Beach
When is the best time to see manatees in West Palm Beach?
The best time for manatee tours in West Palm Beach is from November through March, when water temperatures drop and manatees migrate inland to warm, shallow areas like the Lake Worth Lagoon. Our captains adjust routes seasonally to increase your chances of sightings.
How long does a typical manatee tour last with Coastal Marine Charters?
Most of our manatee charters in West Palm Beach last 1.5 to 2 hours, offering ample time to cruise through hotspots like Manatee Lagoon and Blue Heron Bridge. We also offer customizable durations for private groups upon request.
Can you guarantee a manatee sighting?
Because manatees are wild and roam freely, sightings can’t be guaranteed. However, our team monitors conditions daily and follows patterns to maximize viewing opportunities, especially during peak months.
Are manatee tours kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Our manatee sightseeing tours are safe and educational for all ages. Kids love spotting wildlife from the boat, and our guides share fun facts to keep young guests engaged throughout the cruise.
What should I bring on a manatee tour?
We recommend bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Binoculars are optional but helpful for spotting manatees and dolphins at a distance. We’ll provide life jackets and bottled water on board.
How close can we get to the manatees?
In compliance with Florida Fish and Wildlife guidelines, we observe manatees from a respectful distance. Our captains use idle speed when entering manatee zones, ensuring safety for the animals and a peaceful viewing experience for guests.
Contact Coastal Marine Charters Today
Coastal Marine Charters
Address: 809 Hummingbird Way, North Palm Beach, FL 33408, United States
Phone Number: (561) 401-8856
Google Maps: Find Us Here
Business Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours