Small-Group Manatee Swim in Crystal River

Explore Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge from the water on a guided manatee snorkel experience. Float quietly at the surface as wild manatees move freely through their natural habitat.

• Discover spring-fed waters in Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
• Observe wild manatees respectfully on their own terms
• Learn manatee etiquette from your in-water guide
• Experience changing wildlife activity and water conditions throughout the tour

Itinerary

1. Arrival & Check-In (15 minutes before departure) - Guests arrive at the shop to check in, complete waivers, watch "Manatee Manners" and get fitted for wetsuits and snorkel gear. Your guide reviews manatee etiquette and what to expect on the water.

2. Transportation to Boat Dock (5-10 minutes) - After gearing up and completing your briefing, guests are transported by Fun 2 Dive shuttle to the boat dock just a short drive away. This quick transfer ensures a smooth, stress-free start to your adventure so you can focus on the experience ahead. Your captain will be ready and waiting for boarding upon arrival.

3. Boat Ride to Kings Bay (15–20 minutes) - Enjoy a scenic ride through Crystal River as your captain and guide share information about the springs and local wildlife.

4. Wildlife Search & Nature of the Experience (1.5-2 hours) - This is a true wildlife tour. During your 1.5–2 hour experience, part of the time is spent cruising through Kings Bay searching for manatees in their natural habitat. Our captains know the area well and work hard to locate the best viewing opportunities, but manatees are wild animals and their location changes daily. The search is part of the adventure and allows you to experience the beauty of Crystal River while respectfully observing wildlife on nature’s terms.

5. In-Water Manatee Encounter - This is a true wildlife experience, and every tour is different. The amount of time spent swimming with manatees depends entirely on the manatees themselves. We cannot chase, touch, or pursue them—if they choose to swim away, we respectfully let them go. Our goal is always to find clear spring water, but manatees move freely throughout Kings Bay and are not always in the crystal-clear springs. At times, they may be in areas with reduced visibility. We work hard to locate the best possible conditions each day, while always prioritizing the animals’ comfort and federal wildlife guidelines.

6. Return to Dock & Gear Return (15–20 minutes) - Warm up, return gear, and view available photos for purchase.

Simple. Personal. Unforgettable.

What's Included

• Mask and snorkel
• Wetsuit
• Swimming pool noodle
• In-water guide
• Shuttle to the boat dock

Important details

• Arrive 15 minutes before departure for check-in and gear fitting
• Complete a waiver and watch the Manatee Manners video before the tour
• Ages 3+ only for shared tours; parties with a child under 3 require a private tour
• Children must remain with a parent or legal guardian at all times
• Requires comfort in the water and the ability to climb a boat ladder unassisted
• Wear the provided wetsuit and use the provided pool noodle to stay floating at the surface
• Follow U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service manatee protection guidelines and your in-water guide's instructions