Discover Manatees on the Private Weeki Wachee Clear Kayak Ecotour in Florida
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in average physical shape, prepared for sustained paddling against a current for about an hour.
Overview
Paddle crystal-clear waters on the Weeki Wachee River and encounter Florida's gentle manatees on a guided kayak tour. Perfect for beginners, this 2-hour adventure blends active fun with conservation education.
Private Weeki Wachee Clear Kayak Ecotours | Manatee Season (November 15th-March 31st)
CLEAR KAYAKS • ALL ABOUT MANATEES! • PRIVATE TOURS
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About This Adventure
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Weeki Wachee River while observing wild manatees in their natural habitat. Guided by certified experts, you'll learn about these gentle giants and contribute to their conservation. This unforgettable adventure promises unique memories and a deeper appreciation for Florida's iconic wildlife.
Grab your window seat to a view like no other with the opportunity to observe wild manatees on the Weeki Wachee River!
One of the most iconic water ways in Florida, this trip is a favorite for locals + visitors alike!
We foster a commitment to education, stewardship and responsible ecotourism so learn about manatees from our team of Guardian Guides certified by Save the Manatees Club! A portion of each reservation is donated to manatee conservation.
Book now for your chance to meet our gentle giants and take home clearly unique memories that will last forever!
Duration
Approx 2-2.5 hrs
Tour begins at:
8092 Mary’s Fish Camp Road Springhill, Florida 34607
About This Trip##
- This 2-2.5 hour guided adventure is perfect for beginner + first time paddlers! The current of the river during manatee season does require an INTERMEDIATE level of physicality for the paddle against the current up river with an easier return paddle back to our launch site. This means the first hour of the paddle can be a a workout!
- Expect an adventure that is part wild + part urban as the river is a popular one to enjoy living + recreating on. More people enjoy recreating on the weekends + holidays than weekdays.
- Be on the lookout for many different species of animals from birds, plants, turtles, fish, occasional otters, manatees, dolphins + more!
Important Information
- Reservations are required for all tours.
- Our tour departs from Mary's Fish Camp, 7 minutes from Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
- Sorry, furry friends are not permitted during manatee season.
- Alcohol + smoking are not permitted.
- This is a no exit-tour. We remain in our kayaks for the duration of the tour.
- You must have the ability to sit in the same position for 2+ hours.
- No children under 3
- Pets are not permitted during manatee season.
Weight Limit
- No one paddler can be over 250 pounds + the combined weight of two paddlers cannot exceed 425 pounds per kayak. Each of our kayaks are doubles (tandem).
DISCLAIMER:
We cannot guarantee manatee sightings on each tour we take out, however your tour guide will do their best to go to the areas where the manatees are typically most active. Manatee season officially runs from November 15th - March 31st. We would like all our guests to be aware of this possibility so that there are no surprises once on the water!
Occasionally water may turn tannic in color (but still clear) due to excess rains and high tides.
Adventure Tips
Bring water and sun protection
Florida sun can be intense—wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the paddle.
Prepare for upstream current
The first half of the tour involves paddling against the current, so be ready for a moderate workout to reach the best manatee viewing areas.
Choose weekdays to avoid crowds
Weekends and holidays can be busy on the river; booking a weekday tour offers a more peaceful experience and better wildlife spotting opportunities.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Expect some splashes and humidity—clothing that dries fast will keep you comfortable throughout the trip.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- West Indian manatee
- Florida river otter
History
The Weeki Wachee River has long been a site of both indigenous heritage and early Florida tourism, with the famous Weeki Wachee Springs State Park established in 1947.
Conservation
The tour supports manatee conservation directly, promoting ethical wildlife viewing practices and environmental stewardship of the river’s fragile ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Spring Hill
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin during sunny paddling sessions while keeping the river ecosystem safe.
winter specific
Lightweight water shoes
Offers foot protection for launching and landing on natural riverbanks.
Water bottle
Essential to stay hydrated during the paddle on sunny, warm days.
Polarized sunglasses
Helps reduce glare on the water for better visibility and eye comfort.