Private pontoon snorkeling with gentle, passive manatee observation in Kings Bay
2–3 hrs
Up to 6 people
Wetsuits, snorkel gear, photos
Explore Kings Bay and Crystal River on a private pontoon tour led by Captains Derek Schmidt and Jake Bauer. Snorkel quietly around threatened manatees through passive observation, or watch from the boat as your captain shares an educational, wildlife-focused experience.
This booking is for the whole experience, which fits up to 6 guests.
Full refund with at least 48 hours' notice of cancellation. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows are charged the full price.
Product ID: 2VUQG7
Wear a bathing suit under dry clothes and bring a towel. You may also bring a camera, polarized sunglasses, and hydration. For colder days, water shoes and a sock hat can help keep you warm between dives. Do not bring aerosol sunscreen.
No. This private manatee snorkel tour uses passive observation only. Stay still and quiet in the water, respect the manatees' space, and let them choose whether to approach you.
No. Manatees are wild animals, and their movements depend on water temperatures. November through March is generally peak season in Kings Bay, but sightings cannot be promised.
Paddletail Waterfront Lodge, 614 NW US Hwy-19, Crystal River, FL 34428
Went out of season so unsure if we would actually see any manatees but the boat captain and our guide Celeste were excellent at spotting the signs and we swam alongside one and watched another sleeping. The springs were lovely and clear and we saw crabs, bass and mullet. There were only to 2 of us booked on the tour but it went ahead anyway which we were v appreciative of. Great trip!
Deborah Kilkenny
June 13, 2026
Went out of season so unsure if we would actually see any manatees but the boat captain and our guide Celeste were excellent at spotting the signs and we swam alongside one and watched another sleeping. The springs were lovely and clear and we saw crabs, bass and mullet. There were only to 2 of us booked on the tour but it went ahead anyway which we were v appreciative of. Great trip!
Deborah Kilkenny
June 13, 2026
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