Clear-kayak at sunset, then switch on lights to glow over Crystal River springs
2.5 Hours
Clear kayak, guide, life vest
Explore Crystal River in an all-clear tandem kayak as you look for manatees and other wildlife, then watch the sunset on Kings Bay. After dark, turn on your kayak lights and glide over glowing clear water.
Operates November 15 through March 31, and Three Sisters Springs is closed during this time so you will not kayak inside it. No swimming and no shoes allowed on the clear kayaks. All-clear kayaks are tandem; each guest must be under 250 lb and paired guests must be under 425 lb total, with age 3+ and an adult (18+) required for minors.
Extra fees apply: a $7.50 per person launch fee is charged at checkout, and a $10 parking fee is paid upon arrival.
Cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours in advance. If you do not give 24 hours notice, there is no reschedule, refund, or credit. Arrive 30 minutes early; arriving at start time may cause you to miss your tour.
Yes. The clear kayaks are tandem, so partners are required. If your group has an odd number, you may be paired with an adult from another odd-numbered group; if the full tour has an odd number of guests, one person may ride solo in a double kayak (no exceptions).
Yes. Each guest must be under 250 lb, and paired guests must be under 425 lb total.
Kids ages 3+ can join. Minors ages 3–12 must pair with someone age 13+ in their own party, and minors cannot be paired with another party. An adult (18+) must be present for any minors under 18 to participate.
1 SW 1st Pl Crystal River, FL
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