boat tours new smyrna beach

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Turtle Mound River Tours

• Address: 865 Redfish Avenue, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
• Phone: (386) 957-1207
•    

EDUCATION. CONSERVATION. EXPLORATION.

Marine discovery center: 25 years protecting florida’s coastal and indian river lagoon ecosystems.

DONATE & SUPPORT

DISCOVER AMAZING.

Explore the beauty and diversity of the indian river lagoon on a guided kayak or boat tour today, you protect your home. don’t forget about your backyard., the indian river lagoon, new smyrna beach’s backyard, is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. at marine discovery center, it is our mission to protect and restore this precious resource through a variety of conservation initiatives., the indian river lagoon needs you., your gift today will help restore and protect this vital resource., hands-on feet-wet.

Nature-based education teaches us how to be good stewards of our environment and the natural world around us. Marine Discovery Center offers a wide variety of hands-on, feet-wet educational programs—on campus, and on the water! From action-packed Adventure Camps for kids, free monthly lectures, and indoor educational exhibits to eco-tours and conservation activities, there are opportunities for kids and adults of all ages to connect with nature and gain a better understanding of the diverse inhabitants of the Indian River Lagoon.

YOUR SUPPORT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

See the amazing impact you made last month, get involved and volunteer at one of our conservation events or programs., conservation.

Healthy coastal habitats play a critical role in all our lives by protecting us from storms, helping to keep our drinking water clean, and supporting the economy through boating, fishing, and tourism.   Marine Discovery Center believes in conservation-in-action where YOU play a key role in helping to protect biological diversity, maintain and restore critical habitat and help prevent loss of species, no matter where you live, work or play. Learn more about how you can become part of our volunteer conservation team through our oyster bed and shoreline restoration projects and citizen science programs.

EXPLORATION

Discover amazing.

Repeated, meaningful experiences in nature help develop a sense of place, a sense of connection, and a sense of community. These experiences reveal the relationship we have with the natural world and the importance of conserving it. Marine Discovery Center invites you to explore the diverse wildlife and beauty of the Indian River Lagoon on one of our expertly guided boat and kayak eco-tours. These two-hour water adventures, led by a certified Florida Master Naturalist, will give you an up-close and personal look at one of North America’s most biodiverse ecosystems, which is home to more than 4,000 species of plants and animals, including the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin, Florida Manatee, horseshoe crabs, coastal birds, and a wide variety of fish and other important organisms.  Book your seat today and DISCOVER AMAZING! Nature is waiting!

Book Boat & Kayak Tours Today

Sharing mdc’s, best moments.

My son just finished his first summer camp with MDC and LOVED it. Everything was well organized and some of the activities I heard about had me jealous I wasn’t in camp – hello otter and dolphin encounters!!

The Boat trip speaker Lisa, had proficient execution, in giving detailed information regarding the Indian River Lagoon. I especially appreciated her precision when explaining the protective measures homeowners, would take when doing their part to protect the environment and their investments! All around it was awesome! The captain, Doug was also very generous while awarding me with his finds, being I was the first to spot dolphins! Had a blast! First experience and most certainly won’t be my last! Thanks Marine Discovery Center.. keep being awesome!

This is a gem off the beaten path with so much to offer to all ages. Everyone is friendly and knowledgeable. We are looking forward to more adventures and education from this one of a kind New Smyrna experience

Felt like a child again watching the dolphins jump out of the water.

We learned more in 2 hours than the 7 months we have lived here!

It was informative and interesting to learn so many things about NSB and the wildlife it supports. We spotted dolphins and a great variety of birds during our trip, it was so fun to have such a knowledgeable guide pointing out things we certainly would have missed.

Although we only got a quick glimpse of 3 dolphins and numerous species of birds, the info given was well worth the ride. So much history of the area and the manner in which the ecosystem is being affected by man was so enlightening.

Help Protect the Indian River Lagoon

Donate and support.

One of the best ways you can help ensure the health and vitality of the Indian River Lagoon is by giving a financial donation today. Your support will not only help protect this precious resource and restore its natural ability to filter against pollutants and other toxins that threaten its diverse inhabitants, but you will help inspire the next generation of nature enthusiasts and conservationists through our hands-on, feet-wet educational programs! Give today! The Lagoon needs us…and we need the Lagoon!

Location & Hours

520 Barracuda Boulevard New Smyrna Beach, Florida (386) 428-4828

Barracuda Bridge is closed. Please use Quay Assisi to access MDC. Mon – Fri  |  9am – 5pm Sat & Sun  |  9:30am – 2:30pm

Quick Links

• Book a Tour
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© Marine Discovery Center, All Rights Reserved. 

COME ENJOY A DAY ON THE WATER RELAXING OR PARTYING ON OUR AMAZING TIKI BOAT

LOCATED IN THE BEAUTIFUL NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FLORIDA

All of our tours are private!

Book your fabulous water adventure today! 

As featured on FOX35 news Good Day Orlando!!!

Private tiki tours and water taxi for all occasions.

Inlet Shores Tiki Tours offers a variety of cruises and water taxi options.  We offer private parties and special events including but not limited to:

• Birthday Parties
• Bachelor / Bachelorette Parties
• Engagements
• Retirement Cruises
• Sunset Cruises
• Sandbar Cruises
• Beach Day Cruises to either a party or secluded beach

What We Offer:

All of our tours are BYOB, and guests are permitted to bring alcoholic beverages of your choice, along with any snacks or lunch to help make your day on the water even more amazing!  We can accommodate up to six guests on our boat and have a BATHROOM on board!  We provide water, a cooler and a blue tooth speaker!  

Meet Captain Mike!!!

Captain Mike is the owner/main Captain with over 25 years of experience navigating boats on the waterways of Florida.  Captain Mike is a Master Captain and fully licensed.  He is CPR certified and a fantastic entertainer.  He knows the best spots for photo opportunities, and you are sure to see some wildlife with him!

Meet Captain kye!!!

Captain Kye is a native of New Smyrna Beach with over 15 years of experience on the water in New Smyrna and Ponce.  Captain Kye is a Master Captain and fully licensed.  He is CPR certified and a great entertainer.  As a local, he knows all the perfect sandbars and has great suggestions for restaurant and bar stops.

Photo Gallery

Water taxi to disappearing island.

We will arrange to pick you up at a local boat ramp and take you to Disappearing Island to spend an hour, several hours, or a whole day soaking up the sun.  Whether you want a quiet peaceful location or a party scene, we will make your day enjoyable! 

Tiki Tour of Disappearing Island

Enjoy a tour of the amazing Disappearing Island and all that it has to offer.  We will make a brief stop at the island for some amazing pictures!

Sunset Cruise

Early bird brunch cruise.

Book an evening sunset cruise on the peaceful waterways of New Smyrna and Ponce Inlet!  Chances are you will see some dolphins and a gorgeous sunset as you sip on a cocktail and enjoy an evening with those you love!

Bring a picnic brunch and a mimosa and come experience the water in the morning with all of its gorgeous wildlife habitats!  We will stop at a sandbar so you can eat a picnic brunch or you can eat while cruising!  A guaranteed way to start your day off right! 

Happy Hour Cruise

Book a "Happy Hour" cruise to relax and unwind!  Bring your favorite beverage and listen to your favorite tunes as we cruise along the waterways!  We will stop at a local sandbar so you can look for shells and stick your feet in the sand!

Special Events

Book your engagement photos, vow renewals, bachelor or bachelorette party, or any special occasion on our Tiki Boat for amazing pictures you are guaranteed to cherish for a lifetime!  

Questions? Bookings?

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Special Requests Available

For small group tours, we can customize an itinerary to emphasize your interests. If you have a special request, send us a message, and we will be sure to get back to you soon.

Inlet Shores Tiki Tours

Located in New Smyrna Beach, Florida 386-478-3039

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at [email protected] if you cannot find an answer to your question.

All of our tours are BYOB.  You can bring food on the tour or we can make arrangements for catering or a restaurant stop on many of our tours.  We provide water, a cooler, ice and cups for your convenience.  

Yes!  Our tours are all private tours so it will be just your group of people along with the captain and a first mate if necessary. 

There is a very small port a pot on the boat that is strongly encouraged to be used for emergency purposes only.  

Absolutely!  We have a great blue tooth speaker system that you can access and play all of your favorite tunes.  There is also a charging port for cell phones on board! 

Our vessel holds six guests, along with a captain and first mate. Children are allowed on the boat but children under the age of 6 must wear a life vest.  Life jackets are available upon request so please notify us in advance if your party includes small children.  

Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for boarding of the vessel.  Parking for all tours is a public boat ramp parking lot.  There is a fee to park (approximately $10 per vehicle) unless you have a Volusia County Resident parking pass.  

Inlet Shores Tiki Tours reserves the right to cancel any cruise at any time due to inclement weather, safety, mechanical, or behavior concerns. The captain has the discretion to terminate a trip when they believe passenger safety has become a concern due to weather-related or behavioral issues. If a tour has been canceled due to weather concerns or cut short within the first 45 minutes, you will receive a gift certificate to reschedule another tour based on availability.

In the event of potential inclement weather, a “captain’s call” will be made if conditions on the water appear too hazardous for a tour. If it is a passing storm where the following tour is vacant, the captain can opt to wait and delay the tour.  The captain, scheduling manager, and guests will need to be in complete agreement for this to occur.

If your tour is canceled or terminated early due to behavioral issues or visible intoxication, there will be no refund or rescheduling.

 Yes!  Our captains work for tips, we encourage a 20% gratuity. They are very experienced, knowledgeable, and highly trained and work hard to ensure your safety while providing a fantastic experience. 

Bring any food and drink that you desire, an ID showing that you are over 21 if you intend to consume alcohol on the boat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, phone with your favorite music playlist, and cash for tipping the captain!  If your tour includes swimming please bring towels. If your tour is an afternoon or evening tour, it is recommended to bring a sweater or light jacket. 

Swimming is only permitted on tours with a duration of greater than 2 hours and a waiver must be signed stating that you are an experienced and knowledgeable swimmer.  All swimming is at your own risk with no certified lifeguard.  

There is a slight booking fee to book a reservation online which will be applied as you checkout.  To avoid a booking fee, you may call or submit an inquiry to reserve your tour but it cannot be guaranteed that the date and time will be available.  Calls will be returned within 24 hours.  Booking online is in real time and all current availability is listed.  

Copyright © 2024 Inlet Shores Tiki Tours - All Rights Reserved.

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ONLY $39.99 for a 2 Hour Tour with Sandbar Stop!!

Price is per person for 4-6 guests.  Click the "book now" button for more information! 

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FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Daytona Beach Dolphin Tours, Manatee Tours, Boat Tours and Eco Tours

Located just minutes from Daytona Beach, Florida and New Smyrna Beach, Florida! Ponce Inlet Watersports has everything you need for some great family fun; whether it’s Dolphin and Manatee Tours, Parasailing, Fishing or other watersports.

We offer it all, call us today or book online now!

Come have fun with us today!

Cruise through the Intracoastal Waterways looking for dolphins and manatees! Enjoy our shaded flat-bottomed boat as we search for sea life!

Bring your friends for one of our public fishing charters. Rod, Reel, Bait, Tackle & Fishing License are included.

Come spend the day on our 2020 6 passenger boat Parker 21′ S.E private boat for a trip near Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

Rent a pontoon boat and enjoy the beautiful waters in the area. Maximum of 10 passengers.

Enjoy the natural beauty of one of Florida’s most magnificent sights, enjoy seeing dolphins and wildlife. Come enjoy jet skiing with us.

5-Star Rated WaterSports Near Daytona Beach, FL

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Get In Touch Today!

Questions? Simply fill out our form below

Ponce Inlet Watersports is your place for fun water activities in the Daytona Beach area. We offer many different activities: Dolphin and Manatee boat tours, Public Fishing Charters, Private Fishing Charters, Private family charter, Kayak Rentals, Parasailing, Guided Jet Ski Tours and Burials at Sea.

Email: [email protected]

Address:  4958 S Peninsula Drive Suite 1, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127

Lighthouse Marina Ponce Inlet, FL Close to Daytona Beach Closest to inlet, disappearing island

Our Services

• Manatee & Dolphin Tours
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• Charter Boat
• Parasailing
• Jet Ski Rentals
• Pontoon Rentals
• Book Online

(386) 405-3445

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Inlet Shores Tiki Tours

Location & Hours

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130 Mangrove Estates Cir

New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168

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Overall rating

We celebrated a birthday with a chartered tour and Captain Michael was great. He took us wherever we wanted. We got to stop at a local restaurant on the water and spend some time on a sand bar. During our time we got to see dolphins. I highly recommend Inlet Tiki Tours for a fun day in the sun. The best part is there's a bathroom on the boat!!! Karen and Michael were so accommodating. They answered all my questions quickly through their website. Thanks for a great time!

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

We truly had the BEST time on our tiki tour. The owners were fun, professional, and attentive. We are locals, and since we aren't boat owners it was extremely fun to see the all of the sandbars and islands you can't get to without. They parked us on an island for an hour as we wanted some time to relax in the shallow water and enjoy the sun. They made sure we were happy and they let us know that we could stay on the island for as much of our tour as we wanted or we could cruise some more. Captain Mike and Karen were awesome! We didn't have one second on our tour where we were bored or unhappy. I can't recommend their business enough!

See all photos from Adrienne J. for Inlet Shores Tiki Tours

Such a fun day with Captain Mike! We had a fantastic time relaxing on Disappearing Island, saw dophins, a beautiful view of the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and overall had a great day. We booked a 3-hour tour and it was the perfect amount of time. I would highly recommend booking with Inlet Shores Tiki Tours - you won't be disappointed!

Great sunset tiki tour! We enjoyed our captain Mike, the route, the dolphins and the island vibes! Would definitely recommend them to everyone

I have been on a few tiki style tours and this one was hands down the best! We had so much fun with the crew especially Roxy the furriest crew :) bathroom on board was a huge plus

It was a great boat tour for a perfect birthday celebration . Fun was had by all, Captain Mike made sure of that . You won't be disappointed. Just a beautiful day on the waters and enjoying seeing the dolphins and hanging out in the sandbar plus stopping at the river deck for a drink . Thank you captain Mike for a great time . I will definitely be booking again .

BEST DAY EVER! We celebrated my 50th birthday with Captain Mike. You will never regret booking a tour with him. WELL beyond my expectations. So great that we are booked for a longer tour with him in June. I have a feeling that there will be many more after that also. Captain Mike is so much fun. We saw several dolphins and sand bars. We had no idea how great of a day this was going to be but it turned out to be one of my most memorable days EVER. Thank you Captain Mike!!

4 other reviews that are not currently recommended

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New Smyrna Beach: The Sunshine State’s Best-Kept Secret

T ucked away along Florida’s Central Atlantic Coast sits a charming coastal gem that has, for the most part, remained largely undiscovered by tourists. It’s beloved by surfers and sun worshipers, is an oasis for ecotourism, and a happy community with laid-back vibes. New Smyrna Beach is a Florida vacation offering authentic experiences. 

The area features miles of sun-kissed coastline and the convenience of a drivable beach. Luxurious tailored-to-you bed and breakfast accommodations are perfect for a romantic escape. Locally-owned restaurants feature freshly caught seafood and chef-inspired plates. Trails, waterways, and wildlife are waiting to be discovered and explored. The area also offers historic districts with boutiques, shops, museums, and art galleries, as well as a calendar of year-round events .

New Smyrna Beach, Florida , may be Florida’s second oldest city, but its vibrant spirit and timeless charm make it feel youthful and inviting.

Independent Hotels and Intimate Retreats

With a variety of lodging options, New Smyrna Beach is an attractive option for families, as well as couples and friend groups. From Springhill Suites by Marriott to independent establishments like the Oceanfront Salty Mermaid Hotel, stepping out of bed and into the sand is as easy as it gets. 

But the real experiences are within quaint bed-and-breakfast options like the historic Black Dolphin Inn . Owned, renovated, and operated by brothers Scott and Brett Smith and their families, this upscale B&B has 14 unique units with spa-inspired bathrooms and stylish vintage furnishings — many with open-air balconies. Breakfast menus change daily and are made to order. Guests also have the option of requesting the meals be delivered to their rooms. 

Beyond Bars and Chain Restaurants

Vacationers won’t find the typical beach bar or chain restaurant in some areas of New Smyrna Beach. Instead, they’ll discover family-owned establishments serving locally sourced cuisine and craft cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere. 

Outriggers Tiki Bar and Grille offers views of the Indian River and a welcoming Sunday brunch menu with Southern style comfort food including chicken and waffles and shrimp and grits. Norwood’s , an open-air restaurant and bar in a treehouse, offers live music while diners enjoy  surf and turf options from above. Other unique dining experiences include Corkscrew Bar and Grille on historic Canal Street, the global flavors of Third Wave Cafe and Wine Bar , and the Polynesian-inspired menu at Avanu on Flagler .

Sugar Works Distillery , a family-owned and operated business, offers the community a cozy gathering spot where friends and family can enjoy handcrafted artisanal spirits, cocktails, and live music. The distillery’s name derives from the area’s rich history in the sugar cane industry, which traces its roots back to the 1800s .

Founder Tom McPeek uses his scientific background to produce whiskey, bourbon, vodka, rum, tequila, and moonshine with regionally sourced ingredients. He offers tours to anyone interested in the distillation process. 

Accessible Beaches and Surfable Waves

For surfers, sun lovers, and snowbirds, New Smyrna Beach has 17 miles of coastline, perfect for water sports, fishing, and relaxation. Many beaches have hard packed sand, allowing residents and vacationers to drive and park along the sand, eliminating the need to lug around heavy beach essentials . 

Smyrna Dunes Park, a 184-acre inlet park , features two miles of handicap-accessible boardwalk, dog-friendly beach access, a fishing pier, and on-site facilities, making a day at the beach effortless and enjoyable. 

New Smyrna Beach has also earned a reputation within the surfing community. With water temperatures averaging 75 degrees year-round, in addition to consistent and reliable waves, American Surf Magazine reported the waves in New Smyrna Beach “are the best you’ll find in Florida!” 

Vacationers looking to conquer the waves can take lessons from local surf legends like Joe Surbaugh and Jimmy Lane, who have been riding New Smyrna Beach waves for decades. Surbaugh is part of the Jimmy Lane Surf Academy , a top-tier surf school that has been teaching kids and adults the art of surfing for over 30 years. 

Environmentally Friendly Outdoor Adventures

As Florida’s first One Planet Living destination, New Smyrna Beach is committed to minimizing the impact of tourism’s environmental footprint. Through expertly led ecotours, nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers can explore the area’s remarkable biodiversity responsibly.

Vacationers can go on eco boat tours via the Marine Discovery Center and experience one of North America’s most diverse ecosystems through “hands-on, feet-wet” experiences. Viking Ecotours offers Canaveral National Seashore kayaking adventures featuring playful dolphins and gentle manatees, as well as after-dark bioluminescent kayaking, where the water comes alive with natural blue-green light displays.

A Creative Community 

New Smyrna Beach also has a thriving art community and is recognized as one of “The Best Small Art Towns in America” by Americans for the Arts . On historic Canal Street, you’ll discover galleries and working studios at places like Jane’s Art Center , where you can appreciate and engage in the arts.  

The Hub on Canal , a nonprofit organization, also plays an integral part in the New Smyrna Beach community. The Hub is home to artwork by more than 70 local and regional artists, featuring a dozen active studios where you can observe their masterpieces come to life. But perhaps the most endearing part of this organization is the volunteers’ incredible support and dedication to making the arts accessible to the community’s youth and underserved. The Hub on Canal offers scholarship programs, mentoring, and workshops to empower individuals and foster economic development.

Historic Districts: Unique Finds, Chic Designs

Historic Canal Street is also home to shops, boutiques, restaurants, and the New Smyrna Museum of History . Vacationers can easily spend a day window shopping, enjoying a meal, searching for the perfect keepsake, or learning about the area’s rich history. Boutiques like The Posh Pineapple , a trendy gift and clothing store, feature the latest in Florida fashion and one-of-a-kind finds.

On historic Flagler Avenue, a few blocks from the ocean, vacationers will find even more options like surf shops, designer swimwear, and lively bars. Music and seafood festivals and wine walks are also held annually. 

New Smyrna Beach is a relaxed coastal community exuding personality and charm. For those searching for a unique Florida vacation filled with relaxation, adventure, and lasting memories, this town should be on anyone’s list of must-visit destinations.

This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks .