Cruise spring-fed waterways and observe wild manatees on their terms
3 hrs
Up to 6 people
Guide, wetsuit, snorkel gear
Set out on a shared boat with a captain and guide to search for manatees in Homosassa Springs. Combine a gentle river cruise with the chance to slip into the water and observe these animals in their natural habitat. Sightings and in-water encounters depend on the wildlife and cannot be guaranteed.
Cancel 48+ hours before departure for a 50% refund plus 50% future credit, or full transferable credit with no expiration. At 24–48 hours, future credit applies with a rebooking fee. Under 24 hours or no-shows: no refunds, credits or rebooking. If the operator cancels within 24 hours or during the tour for weather or safety, reschedule free or receive transferable credit with no expiration.
Product ID: ZZNNN5
Yes. Each boat holds up to six people, and larger groups can use multiple boats. On this shared tour, other passengers may join your boat up to the six-person limit.
No. Lunch and dinner are available onsite but are not included in the listed price. Crew gratuities are also separate; 20% of the ticket price is customary. You can tip onsite after the tour using cash, Venmo, or a debit or credit card.
No. There are no parking or resort fees.
Picnic tables at the blue marina building, Monkey Island Riverside Resort, 5297 S Cherokee Way, Homosassa, FL 34446
Guides like Captain Cephas, Captain Yves, and Charissa are a big reason this experience earns such glowing reviews. Knowledgeable, personable, and clearly passionate about manatees, they put real effort into finding the animals and making sure everyone in the group gets quality time in the water. Families with young kids, travelers with physical limitations, and even guests visiting late in the season have all walked away with memorable encounters. The manatees themselves do most of the heavy lifting, of course. Reviewers describe close-up, face-to-face moments with these curious, gentle creatures, sometimes lasting close to an hour. Underwater photos taken by the crew are a standout bonus, giving guests something to take home beyond just the memory. One thing worth noting is that sightings are more reliable in winter when manatees congregate in the warm spring waters. Late spring and summer visits can still be rewarding, but manage your expectations accordingly. Overall, this tour consistently delivers a genuine, well-run wildlife experience that feels far from touristy.
It was such a wonderful experience. Even though it was the off-season in August, our guide went above and beyond, and we were able to swim with a manatee for a very long time. We were also the only ones on the boat, so we had a private tour, which was incredible. Our guide was incredibly kind! I would do it again in a heartbeat!
Nadine
August 12, 2026
It was such a wonderful experience. Even though it was the off-season in August, our guide went above and beyond, and we were able to swim with a manatee for a very long time. We were also the only ones on the boat, so we had a private tour, which was incredible. Our guide was incredibly kind! I would do it again in a heartbeat!
Nadine
August 12, 2026
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