Crystal River is the premier destination for observing and interacting with the Florida manatee, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, affectionately known as gentle giants. Unlike other regions in Florida, the federal government permits “passive observation” in the waters of Kings Bay, allowing for direct interaction with manatees. We offer pre-tour education on passive observation techniques to ensure the best experience during the tour. Additionally, we provide a hotel package that includes accommodations and breakfast with your Florida manatee tour.

Swimming with the manatees and exploring the expansive Kings Bay estuary and springs is highly popular. The best way to experience a manatee tour is by snorkeling in wet suits, ensuring a quiet interaction. This encourages the manatees to approach closely. We provide new suits and snorkel gear, all included in our manatee tours, along with full-service facilities for changing. Your in-water guide will capture videos and photos of your manatee experience, available for purchase at the dive shop. All our tour boats are fully enclosed during winter to shield you from the wind and cold. We offer coffee, hot chocolate, water, and dry towels on every tour.

Summer vs. Winter

Manatee tours are influenced by temperature. The colder it is, the more manatees are seen, and they are closer to the springs. On cold days during manatee season (November 15th to March 31st), Kings Bay can host over 700 manatees. Please note that even during manatee season, warm weather (summer-like conditions) may occur. Manatees are present in Kings Bay year-round. For some, this is their permanent home. In the summer months, or during warmer weather, the water temperature outside the springs rises, making the rest of the bay more attractive to the manatees. The 20 to 40 manatees that reside here year-round do not move together, so they spread out over the 630 acres of Kings Bay. This is a wildlife experience influenced by weather, tides, time of day, and visitor behavior. During “summer-like” conditions, you have the chance to see manatees in their natural habitat, and it is important to have realistic expectations. We are always happy to answer any questions about what to expect inside or outside manatee season.

Points of Interest

• Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

• Plantation Adventure Center

• Boat Coats for cold mornings!
• US Coast Guard certified captain and Professionally Insured in water guide!
• Use of Full 5mm wet-suits (for extra warmth), Mask & Snorkels
• Towel Service
• Coffee, Hot Chocolate, bottle water

• Gratuities
• DVD or Flash Drive (available to purchase)
• Swimsuits

In a similar manner to our standard excursions, you have the opportunity to swim with manatees for an extended period of time. With a maximum of 6 participants per boat, we ensure a personalized adventure. The cost covers all gear, including a full 5mm wetsuit, mask, snorkel, as well as towel service. Additionally, we provide hot cocoa, coffee, warm showers, boat jackets, and a heated changing area.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Wet-suits available in children’s size 6 up to 3XL

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.