Water activity

Crystal River: Manatee Snorkel Tour w/ In-Water Photographer

Top rated
4.7  / 5596 reviews
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Water activity
Crystal River: Manatee Snorkel Tour w/ In-Water Photographer
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.7  / 5596 reviews

Swim and snorkel with amazing manatees at a stunning wildlife refuge in Crystal River. Explore the natural springs aboard a covered pontoon boat and get up close to the friendly sea cows.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 3 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Instructor
English
Small group
Limited to 10 participants

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

B
Blake – United States

The whole trip was absolutely amazing. From the moment I walked in the door and was greeted by Steph I knew this was going to be fun! My in water guide and photographer Natalie was super enthusiastic and knowledgeable about these amazing animals. She shared all sorts of info and answered every question. Captain Tanner did an excellent job as well and provided lots of in depth and fun information about the area we were in. He told us about how this area came to be and why it is so important not only for the preservation of manatees but dozens of other species that call this area home as well. Thanks to the whole team!

S
Sarah – United States

We had a wonderful morning to remember! We saw so many manatees and had a once in a lifetime opportunity to see them up close. Captain Brian and Ed made a wonderful team.

Experience

Itinerary

  • Timeline stop icon

    Starting location:

    498 SE Kings Bay Dr

  • River Ventures - The Legends of Adventure

    Class, Safety briefing (25 minutes)

  • Bus/coach

    (5 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

    Photo stop, Guided tour, Boat cruise, Swimming, Snorkeling, Marine life viewing (2.42 hours)

  • Bus/coach

    (5 minutes)

    River Ventures - The Legends of Adventure

    Coffee, Tea, Shopping

    Optional

  • Arrive back at:

    498 SE Kings Bay Dr

Main stop
Other stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Snorkel with manatees in a 600-acre wildlife refuge
  • Benefit from the services of a captain and instructor certified by the Coast Guard
  • Explore the natural springs aboard a covered pontoon boat

Full description

Get back to nature and discover the home of the world’s largest population of endangered manatees in the winter on a pontoon boat tour to Three Sisters Springs. Get the chance to interact with the curious, gentle giants in their natural habitat.  Learn all about the animals in a classroom-type setting and get tips for your snorkel tour to make the most of your day. Hear about "passive interaction" that ensures that the animals enjoy the experience just as much as you do. Then, journey to the estuary with a Coast Guard captain aboard a covered pontoon boat. Get your snorkeling gear on, marvel at the wildlife around you, and get up close to the sea cows as they move slowly through the water. Head back to base camp to visit the one-of-a-kind gift shop and purchase unique souvenirs. Get tips on what to do in the Kings Bay area, along with directions from the well-informed staff to other local attractions and restaurants.

Includes

  • Mask
  • Snorkel
  • Wetsuit
  • Bottled water
  • Parking
  • Picture package
  • Tips

Not suitable for

  • Children under 3 years

Select participants and date

Participants

Meeting point

Meet at River Ventures tour center.

Open in Google Maps

Important information

What to bring

  • Swimwear
  • Towel

Not allowed

  • Unaccompanied minors

Know before you go

  • Children under 3 are allowed on a private tour
  • Children under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Very young children must be calm and quiet in order to not scare the animals
  • Children should be comfortable in the water and parents should stay close at all times for their safety
  • Wetsuits are available in all sizes and there are snorkel vests and flotation noodles if kids need assistance staying at the surface without swimming
  •  It is important to have realistic expectations for a wild animal encounter. In the cooler weather, the animals migrate to the area and congregate in the warm springs. When the weather warms they can move about. These are wild animals and their migration cannot be controlled. Early mornings are the best time to find the animals and the best chance of seeing them is near the springs. Cold weather means many manatees, and warmer weather means fewer manatees

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 596 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Value for money
    4.5/5

Customer photos

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Recommended
B
Blake – United StatesJanuary 17, 2025 – Verified booking
The whole trip was absolutely amazing. From the moment I walked in the door and was greeted by Steph I knew this was going to be fun! My in water guide and photographer Natalie was super enthusiastic and knowledgeable about these amazing animals. She shared all sorts of info and answered every question. Captain Tanner did an excellent job as well and provided lots of in depth and fun information about the area we were in. He told us about how this area came to be and why it is so important not only for the preservation of manatees but dozens of other species that call this area home as well. Thanks to the whole team!
S
Sarah – United StatesJanuary 2, 2025 – Verified booking
We had a wonderful morning to remember! We saw so many manatees and had a once in a lifetime opportunity to see them up close. Captain Brian and Ed made a wonderful team.
T
Tracy – United StatesDecember 9, 2024 – Verified booking
I enjoyed the whole event, Trisha was wonderful. A must if you are in the area.

Product ID: 68311

Activity provider:River Ventures USA

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