Swim with manatees on a private boat tour for your group of up to 6
3 Hours
Up to 6 people
Required gear, In-water guide
Book a private 3-hour manatee swim tour for just your group in Crystal River. Ride a US Coast Guard certified vessel into Kings Bay and explore the federally protected waters of Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge with an expert in-water guide.
Ages 3+ only. This is a wildlife tour, so sightings and conditions vary day to day.
Cancel at least 3 days prior for a full reimbursement. 2 day notice = 50% refund. If the operator cancels due to bad weather conditions, boat issues, or other circumstances beyond their personal control, you can reschedule or receive full reimbursement.
Bring a bathing suit, towels, and flip flops. Water shoes are optional. Wear your bathing suit under your clothing for an easy change into the wetsuits. Bring sunscreen (no aerosol).
No. If you wear glasses, you can’t wear them with your mask. Contacts are suggested.
Your in-water guide also serves as your photographer. Photos are available for purchase when you return to the facility.
545 N Citrus Ave, Crystal River, FL 34428, United States
Swimming with manatees in Crystal River is a bucket-list experience, and this tour company consistently delivers on that promise. Guides like Topher, Madeleine, and the various captains (GQ, Chris, Dom, and others) come up regularly in reviews for being knowledgeable, funny, and genuinely passionate about the manatees and local ecosystem. Several reviewers noted that their guides actively sought out quieter spots away from crowds, giving groups more relaxed, up-close encounters with these gentle animals. The operation itself is well-organized, with wetsuits, clean snorkel gear, and educational prep before hitting the water. Early morning tours seem to be a sweet spot for calmer conditions and less boat traffic. Many tours also include a stop at Three Sisters Springs, which adds a beautiful bonus to the overall outing. The crew's enthusiasm for conservation shines through too, with guests frequently mentioning how much they learned about manatee habitats and ongoing restoration efforts. With a near-perfect rating across well over a thousand reviews, this one is hard to argue against. First-timers who are nervous about getting in the water will find the staff patient and encouraging, and families with kids have consistently had great experiences here. If a manatee encounter is on your Florida itinerary, this tour is a very solid way to make it happen.
Had an excellent trip today with Explorida. Topher was our guide and he was entertaining and had great information for us. Got to see a few manatees, watching them graze for a long time. Definitely recommend this tour!
Melissa Valyo-Smith
May 17, 2026
Had an excellent trip today with Explorida. Topher was our guide and he was entertaining and had great information for us. Got to see a few manatees, watching them graze for a long time. Definitely recommend this tour!
Melissa Valyo-Smith
May 17, 2026