easy
1.5 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; the tour involves mostly sitting with minor mobility needed to board the boat.
Explore Florida’s Manatee Capital on a serene 90-minute cruise through Kings Bay Wildlife Refuge. Encounter gentle manatees, turtles, and diverse birdlife on this intimate, guided nature tour ideal for all ages.
1.5 Hours • Ages 3+ • Up to 12 People • Can also be booked as a Private Tour
Embark on a serene 90-minute Manatee Viewing Cruise through the stunning Kings Bay Wildlife Refuge. Join a knowledgeable Captain on a US Coast Guard certified vessel as you search for wild manatees, turtles, and diverse bird species. Experience the magic of nature in the "Manatee Capital of the World."
1 Hour and 30 Minutes
This tour is the perfect way to stay dry and view the wild manatees of the Kings Bay Wildlife Refuge.
Hop aboard our US Coast Guard certified vessel where you will join your Master Captain to embark on a journey into the Kings Bay refuge waters. On this tour, you and the group will join us for one of the most memorable experiences of a lifetime!
During this trip we will search for our world famous wild manatees that give Crystal River the title of "The Manatee Capital of the World." There is also a chance to see many other species of birds, turtles, and even a dolphin every now and then so be on the lookout for the impressive variety of wildlife that calls the refuge "home".
Polarized Sunglasses Camera Binoculars
This is a wildlife tour. While we do see manatee on every tour, we never use the word guarantee because Mother Nature reigns supreme. Conditions vary daily, tour by tour, and can never be predicted. Daily conditions vary seasonally with things like weather, tides, and crowds. You can always call us and ask us what conditions you can expect, and will do the best to set your expectations. At the end of the day, we are dedicated to your experience and ensure we do the best to provide a safe, fun, and memorable trip!!
For this Manatee Viewing Cruise, you will be meeting our Captain at Pete's Pier to board the vessel.
You will park your car in the designated car area of the parking lot. There is a $10 parking fee per vehicle. You will find a self-serve payment machine for this and it is located right next to the boat ramp.
Once you have placed your parking ticket in your car on the dashboard, you will then head towards the Bait Shop by following the signs that say "Bait Shop".
If you arrive at Pete's Pier before 3:45 pm, your Captain may not be ready for you to board the boat just yet. You can take this time to visit the Bait Shop where you will find drinks and snacks that you are welcome to bring onboard with you. There are benches where you can sit and watch the boats pass by or you might find some of our local fishing Captains cleaning their catch of the day and feeding the Tarpon as well!
At 3:45 your Captain will be ready for you to board. You will find him at the floating dock next to the Bait Shop in a bright green Explorida shirt. If you need any help please feel free to give us a call
1 SW 1st Place Crystal River, FL 34429
Reminder
A good pair of binoculars will help you see manatees and birds clearly without disturbing them.
Mornings and evenings can be cool on the water; layering ensures comfort throughout the cruise.
Florida sun can be intense—protect your skin and eyes during the open-air boat ride.
Minimize noise and sudden movements to avoid scaring away the wildlife during viewing.
Kings Bay was designated a National Wildlife Refuge in 1983 to protect manatees and their habitats, reflecting a long-standing conservation effort.
Tours follow strict guidelines to prevent disturbance to manatees, supporting ongoing preservation of this sensitive species and their spring habitats.
For spotting manatees and birds from a distance without disturbing them.
Protect your skin from the strong Florida sun during the open boat cruise.
summer specific
Waterfront breezes can be cool—layering keeps you comfortable.
fall specific
Stay hydrated throughout the cruise, especially during warmer months.