Paddle a clear kayak to Three Sisters Springs with a local guide
2 Hours
Clear kayak, guide, life vest
Explore Crystal River in an all-clear tandem kayak on a guided ecotour that visits area springs, including Three Sisters Springs when conditions allow. Learn about the local ecosystem as you paddle and watch for wildlife such as manatees, turtles, birds, dolphins, and fish.
Runs April 1 through November 14, and manatee sightings are not guaranteed during this period. No swimming and no shoes are allowed in the clear kayaks. Ages 3+ only, and all kayaks are tandem with weight limits of 250 lb per person and 425 lb combined.
All guided tours require at least 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule. If you do not give 24 hours notice, there will be no reschedule, refund, or credit.
Yes. Plan for a $7.50 per person marina launch fee charged at checkout, plus a $10 parking fee per vehicle paid upon arrival.
No. Swimming is not allowed on the clear kayak tours.
No. Shoes are not allowed in the clear kayaks. Leave your shoes at the launch location and put them back on at the end of the tour.
Crystal River, Florida
This is clearly a favorite for manatee encounters in Crystal River, and it's easy to see why. The guides get consistent praise by name, with Kyle, Jax, Jon, Jonathan, and Cypress all earning shoutouts for being knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and genuinely invested in creating memorable experiences. Families love the accessibility here, from helping an 84-year-old into a kayak to making kids feel like they're having the best day ever. The equipment is well-maintained, the clear canoes are a hit, and whether you're renting on your own or booking a guided tour, the staff provides helpful tips on where to spot manatees. A couple of things to note: one reviewer mentioned the check-in staff could be friendlier (though guides were great), and another felt uncomfortable with the volume of tourists around the manatees, which seems more about personal preference than the company itself. The overall vibe is overwhelmingly positive, with people calling experiences "life-altering" and "unforgettable." The combination of quality gear, passionate guides, and those up-close manatee encounters keeps people coming back.
Took the Clear Kayak Manatee and Three Sisters Springs tour with Jax as our guide. 5 Stars all the way. No guarantees to see a manatee in April, but Jax spotted a mother and calf. She guided us safely around the pair to protect them and give us the best view possible. She pointed out various birds and fish and provided interesting facts about the area. She took so many beautiful photos of us, the manatees, and the scenery. This tour is a must.
Diane Woods
April 6, 2026
Took the Clear Kayak Manatee and Three Sisters Springs tour with Jax as our guide. 5 Stars all the way. No guarantees to see a manatee in April, but Jax spotted a mother and calf. She guided us safely around the pair to protect them and give us the best view possible. She pointed out various birds and fish and provided interesting facts about the area. She took so many beautiful photos of us, the manatees, and the scenery. This tour is a must.
Diane Woods
April 6, 2026