Snorkel with wild manatees in a small group, with photos and video included
4 hours
Up to 6 people
Gear, snacks, photos/video
Snorkel with wild manatees in their natural habitat on a guided, educational tour in Kings Bay Animal Refuge. Learn manatee-friendly practices, then head onto the water with a small group and get photos and video from your guide.
Group size is limited to 6 guests per boat. You must watch the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Manatee Manners video and attend a mandatory snorkeling briefing before entering the water. Manatees are wild animals, so sightings and interactions depend on animal behavior.
No refunds. Cancel at least 5 days before departure to receive a voucher valid up to 1 year. If canceled within 4 days, no refunds or vouchers. A $75 rebooking fee applies per each 6 guests in your party. If the operator cancels due to weather, mechanical, or unsafe conditions, your deposit stays active for rebooking or voucher.
Arrive 15 minutes before your start time. Plan about 40–45 minutes at the shop for check-in and required prep, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Manatee Manners video, an eco walkthrough, a mandatory snorkeling briefing, and wetsuit fitting before you shuttle to the dock.
Wear a swimsuit or swim trunks under your wetsuit. Bring towels, dry clothes for after, something on your feet for the walk to the dock (flip flops or water shoes), and a bag for wet items. Consider polarized sunglasses and a hat. In cooler weather, bring warm layers to put on after you get out of the water.
Yes. Your tour includes sanitized wetsuits plus a mask and snorkel. Wetsuits are required, and you will not be permitted to enter the water without one. You may use your own snorkel gear if you prefer.
308 Southeast US Highway 19 Crystal River, FL US 34429
At Mertailor's Mermaid Aquarium Encounter in Lecanto, Florida, fantasy and marine life share the same water. Professional mermaids glide through a large reef aquarium while guests watch from just inches away, close enough to see the shimmer of a silicone tail catching the light. Mertailor's Mermaid Aquarium Encounter draws families, ocean enthusiasts, and the simply curious in equal measure.
The crew here clearly knows their stuff when it comes to manatee encounters. Guides like Emmett, Aubrey, Hannah, and Collin get consistent praise for being knowledgeable and friendly, while Captain Ken (sometimes jokingly called Captain Mike) seems to be a beloved fixture who keeps things fun. The operation emphasizes conservation and education, which locals and visitors alike appreciate. Expect to actually interact with these gentle giants up close—reviews mention manatees giving "hugs," playing with hair, and coming right up to snorkelers. The experience delivers on its promise, especially during cold mornings when manatees gather in the springs. A few practical notes: you'll get wetsuits and changing areas, but bring warm clothes for after since you'll be wet and cold. The three-hour tours involve about 90 minutes of actual water time, which seems reasonable given travel and gear-up time. There's also a small handbuilt aquarium on-site with local species and a touch tank that takes 15-20 minutes to explore. One reviewer felt it should be complimentary for tour guests, but most people find the whole package worth the investment. The staff provides hot chocolate and genuinely cares about creating memorable encounters while respecting the animals.
Fun day at Crystal River. Ken(T) was funny. Knowledgeable and professional. We had a very nice relaxing 1.5 hour on the water seeing the manatees. Will definitely go back and swim with them
Joan Robinson
April 7, 2026
Fun day at Crystal River. Ken(T) was funny. Knowledgeable and professional. We had a very nice relaxing 1.5 hour on the water seeing the manatees. Will definitely go back and swim with them
Joan Robinson
April 7, 2026