Cruise Cocoa

If you dream of experiencing Florida’s true natural magic, Cruise Cocoa is the perfect starting point. This popular excursion company offers unforgettable journeys through the region's waterways near Cocoa Beach. Based on Merritt Island, the project gives tourists access to the unique ecosystem of the Indian River Lagoon and the scenic routes of the USA Intracoastal Waterway.

The company's fleet consists of two unique vessels: the cozy Polynesian tiki yacht Lei’d Back, designed for 6 passengers, and the more spacious boat This Island, which can comfortably accommodate up to 23 people. The highlight of these cruises is the intimate atmosphere and lack of noisy crowds, allowing guests to focus on observing wildlife: from playful dolphins to slow-moving manatees and rare bird species.

Cruise Cocoa is more than just a boat ride; it's an opportunity to experience the life of the Space Coast. From the water, you get stunning views of mangroves and old marinas, while experienced captains share fascinating facts about the area's history and its inhabitants. With its top-tier traveler rating, this spot is considered one of the best for family vacations and romantic sunset encounters.

To clarify booking details or choose the right vessel, you can contact the company representatives directly. Cruise Cocoa provides up-to-date information on schedules and available dates by phone or through their website.

Aboard a Cruise Cocoa vessel, guests are in for an exciting adventure—observing the inhabitants of the Indian River Lagoon. Here, you can encounter dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat, as well as majestic bald eagles and roseate spoonbills. For those seeking relaxation, the sunset cruises are ideal; on the smaller Lei’d Back vessel, there is a BYOB policy (bring your own beverages), allowing you to create a private party atmosphere on the water.

Seasonal bioluminescence tours deserve special mention. At night, the water begins to glow from the movement of oars or marine life, creating an otherworldly landscape. Technology enthusiasts will be thrilled by the special rocket launch trips: watching a powerful machine blast off from the spaceport from the water is an unforgettable experience due to the deafening roar and incredible visual effect.

Throughout the year, the company organizes themed events, such as Christmas tiki boat parades, Independence Day celebrations with fireworks, or Halloween cruises. These eco-friendly and calm routes make this activity accessible for families with children and those looking to escape the bustle while exploring the heritage of Port Canaveral through the engaging stories of the guides.

Getting to the Cruise Cocoa departure point is quite simple, as the docks are located at the scenic Cape Crossing Marina on Merritt Island, just a few minutes' drive from the city center. If you are coming from Orlando, the drive via A1A or I-95 will take about an hour. For travelers arriving at Orlando International Airport (MCO), the car trip will take 45 to 60 minutes.

For those who prefer public transport, keep in mind that its operation in this area is limited, so taxis or Uber and Lyft services are the most convenient option. If you are in Port Canaveral as part of a cruise journey, the trip to the marina will take no more than 20–30 minutes.

It is recommended to arrive at the site 15–30 minutes before the tour starts for check-in and briefing. Free parking for visitors is provided at the marina, making a trip by rental car very convenient.

While Cruise Cocoa is a modern company, its activities are closely intertwined with the rich natural heritage that the USA is proud of. The Indian River Lagoon, through which the routes pass, is part of Florida's ancient ecosystem. Today, it is home to a unique population of 700–900 bottlenose dolphins that live in these waters year-round.

Interestingly, this region, known as the Space Coast, combines untouched nature with cutting-edge technology. During the cruises, guides often talk about the history of space exploration and the significance of Port Canaveral, which transformed from a small port into one of the world's largest cruise hubs. The historical landscapes of the "Thousand Islands" with their mangroves have remained virtually unchanged for centuries.

In its short time in business, the company has managed to earn an impeccable reputation. Boasting a 5.0 rating based on over a thousand reviews, it has become a symbol of high-quality ecological tourism in the region. The use of stylized vessels, such as the Polynesian tiki yacht, adds a mid-century classic island vacation vibe to modern outings.

To fully enjoy a boat trip with Cruise Cocoa, it typically takes about 2 hours. This is the duration of the main excursion tours dedicated to dolphin watching, sunsets, or searching for bioluminescence.

However, when planning your day, it’s worth setting aside an extra 30–60 minutes for travel to the marina and preparation before departure. On average, the entire visit will take from 3 to 4 hours. This is enough time to enjoy the Space Coast scenery at a leisurely pace and take great photos of the wildlife.

Excursions are held daily, usually between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM. However, the tour schedule is flexible and directly depends on weather conditions and booked private events.

It is especially important to check the schedule on the official website in advance for special night outings (for example, for bioluminescence viewing) or trips timed to rocket launches. Advance booking is mandatory, as spots on popular routes fill up quickly.

After your boat trip, it's worth taking some time to explore the city itself, as there are many interesting locations nearby. A stroll around the area will allow you to feel the atmosphere of the classic Florida coast and try local cuisine in cozy restaurants.