Paddle a clear tandem kayak and look for manatees in Crystal River springs
2 Hours
Clear tandem kayak, guide
Explore Crystal River in an all-clear tandem kayak with a local guide as you search for manatees and nearby springs. Routes may include spots like Hunter Springs, Jurassic Springs, or House Spring, depending on tides and conditions.
There is a $10 parking fee per vehicle paid on arrival and a $7.50 per person marina launch fee charged at checkout and paid to Pete's Pier Marina. Tandem partners are required, with weight limits of 250 lbs per person and 425 lbs per kayak combined; no shoes are allowed on the clear kayaks.
All guided tours require at least 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule. If you do not give 24 hours notice, there is no reschedule, refund, or credit. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your reservation time; arriving at start time may cause you to miss your tour.
Yes. Pay a $10 parking fee per vehicle on arrival. A $7.50 per person marina launch fee is charged at checkout and paid directly to Pete's Pier Marina.
Yes. All clear kayaks are tandem, and partners are required. If you have an odd-numbered group, you will be paired with an adult from another odd-numbered group. If the entire tour has an odd number of guests, one person may be set up as a single rider in a double clear kayak.
Each guest must be under 250 pounds. Your combined weight with your tandem partner must be under 425 pounds.
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