Airboat Tours
Educational andInformative Eco Tour
Children (aged 3-12) $45 ea
Capt Mike's VIP Experience
Up to 6 passengers
Custom Tours and Services
Wildlife Airboat Tours in Melbourne, Florida
Feel the thrill as you skim across the St. Johns River on an exciting airboat ride in Melbourne, Florida, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Space Coast wetlands. Our Melbourne FL airboat tours offer the perfect mix of high-speed adventure and natural beauty, with time to slow down and take in the scenery, wildlife, and sweeping marsh views.
During the tour, you might spot alligators sunning on the banks, turtles tucked along the shoreline, ospreys diving for fish, or bald eagles soaring overhead. Our US Coast Guard-certified captains know the best areas for wildlife viewing and share stories, history, and fun facts about the Florida ecosystem as you ride.
Whether it’s your first tour or you’re an experienced explorer, our family-friendly airboat rides near Cocoa Beach and Palm Bay offer a uniquely Florida experience you won’t find anywhere else—an unforgettable adventure and memories that last long after you leave the water.
Florida Wetlands Wildlife You Can Spot on an Airboat Tour
Alligator
The American alligator is one of the most iconic animals seen on airboat rides in Melbourne, Florida and throughout the St. Johns River wetlands. Guests often spot these impressive reptiles sunning on the banks or gliding just below the surface, eyes and snout barely visible. Sometimes you may even hear a deep bellow across the marsh — a territorial call that reminds you you’re in true Florida wildlife country. While they look fierce, alligators are typically shy and keep their distance, making them a thrilling yet safe highlight of our Space Coast airboat tours.
Turtle
Freshwater turtles are a common sight during our eco-friendly airboat tours near Melbourne FL, especially along logs and shoreline grasses. These turtles bask in the sun beside alligators, darting into the water with a splash as the boat approaches. Their patterned shells and curious behavior make them a favorite among families and nature lovers exploring the Florida wetlands ecosystem. No two look alike, adding to the charm of spotting them on your tour.
Purple Gallinule
One of the most colorful birds you can see on an airboat wildlife tour in Florida, the Purple Gallinule glows with shimmering blue, green, and violet plumage. With oversized yellow feet, it walks across floating vegetation searching for seeds, insects, and aquatic treats. These birds are bold, often wandering close to the boat, offering incredible photo opportunities. Their bright colors against the reeds showcase just how vibrant the Space Coast marshlands truly are.
Great Blue Heron
A frequent sight along the St. Johns River, the Great Blue Heron stands tall and still, waiting to strike at passing fish. Their wide wingspan and prehistoric silhouette make them one of the most memorable birds spotted during our Melbourne Florida airboat tours. Graceful, patient, and impressive, they’re a reminder of the ancient and untouched nature of Florida’s wetlands.
Belted Kingfisher
Often seen perched above the water during our Space Coast airboat rides, the Belted Kingfisher is known for its rattling call and dramatic fishing dives. With blue plumage and a distinctive crest, it scans the river before plunging headfirst after its prey. Fast, energetic, and fun to watch, this species adds excitement to any Florida birdwatching airboat experience.
Peregrine Falcon
A rare but thrilling sight, the Peregrine Falcon sometimes appears along the coastal edges of the Melbourne FL wetlands. Known as the fastest animal on Earth, it can dive over 200 mph in pursuit of food. Seeing one on an airboat wildlife tour is unforgettable — a powerful reminder of the rich biodiversity found along the Space Coast.