Look for winter manatees and learn their Homosassa Springs story from a local naturalist
2 hours
2 to 6 people
Guide, licensed captain
Explore the head springs of the Homosassa River aboard a spacious pontoon boat and look for manatees in their natural habitat. Learn about manatee behavior and why Homosassa Springs becomes a winter home during manatee season, from November 1 through March 1.
Weather: refund or reschedule.
Product ID: 2QS5VR
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, food, and drinks if you like. Pack drinks and food in a cooler, and leave glass containers behind. Dress for the weather.
Use a restroom before departure; marine bathrooms may be closed during the Manatee Observation Cruise.
All ages are welcome.
Homosassa Springs Marina, 10806 W Halls River Rd, Homosassa, FL 34448
Rachel, Jodi, Joe, Roman, and Ed form a tight-knit team of guides who clearly know and love the Chassahowitzka River. Reviewers consistently praise their depth of knowledge, covering local wildlife, plant life, history, and even astronomy on the nighttime tours. Manatee sightings come up again and again, alongside birds, otters, fish, and more. The guides have a genuine knack for making first-timers feel comfortable on the water, and one reviewer even noted a guide happily towing a tired paddler back to shore. The tour options range from morning paddles to sunset and full moon kayak experiences, each earning glowing feedback. Guests appreciate the small details too, things like bug spray, headlamps, and blankets being on hand, which signals a well-organized operation. For locals and visitors alike, this consistently comes up as a trip highlight rather than just a pleasant afternoon activity.
I truly cannot recommend Nature Coast Eco Tours enough! From start to finish, the experience was incredible. Rachel and Jodi are not only extremely knowledgeable, but you can genuinely feel how much they care about our local ecosystems and the life within them. They share their passion in a way that makes you appreciate the beauty around you on a whole new level. Their kayak tours are hands-down the best in town. Peaceful, informative, and unforgettable. If you’re looking for a unique way to connect with nature and learn something along the way, this is it. I would recommend them to absolutely anyone!
Emily Whateley
March 17, 2026
I truly cannot recommend Nature Coast Eco Tours enough! From start to finish, the experience was incredible. Rachel and Jodi are not only extremely knowledgeable, but you can genuinely feel how much they care about our local ecosystems and the life within them. They share their passion in a way that makes you appreciate the beauty around you on a whole new level. Their kayak tours are hands-down the best in town. Peaceful, informative, and unforgettable. If you’re looking for a unique way to connect with nature and learn something along the way, this is it. I would recommend them to absolutely anyone!
Emily Whateley
March 17, 2026
Cruise Homosassa Springs by private boat and snorkel with manatees with a guide
Cruise and snorkel with manatees on a relaxed 3-hour small-group trip
Cruise Homosassa River and snorkel with manatees on your own private boat
Cruise the Old Homosassa River with wildlife and backcountry history
Cruise the Homosassa River and snorkel with manatees, with dockside breakfast and lunch
Relax on a shaded Homosassa River boat cruise with chances to spot local wildlife