Discover the thrill of paddling alongside gentle manatees while exploring Crystal River's beautiful springs. This guided kayak tour offers an up-close wildlife experience in a tranquil setting. Keep reading to learn more about this unique adventure!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; some paddling experience helpful but not required
Wildlife
History
Crystal River has been a hub for wildlife refuge and eco-tourism since the area was designated a protected habitat for manatees and other aquatic species.
Conservation
Hunter Springs Kayak emphasizes eco-friendly practices, supporting local conservation efforts and wildlife protection initiatives.
Hunter Springs Kayak
Discover the thrill of paddling alongside gentle manatees while exploring Crystal River's beautiful springs. This guided kayak tour offers an up-close wildlife experience in a tranquil setting. Keep reading to learn more about this unique adventure!
Hunter Springs Kayak is a Crystal River, Florida outfitter specializing in guided kayak tours, manatee swim experiences, and watercraft rentals.
The company operates a range of guided and self-guided options, including private and shared kayak manatee swim tours, eco-tours, spring-viewing excursions, and rental packages for clear kayaks, tandem kayaks, single kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes. Guided experiences include the Guided Kayak Manatee Swim Tour and private three-hour King’s Bay tours with a maximum of 10 participants and a full photo package from professional underwater photographers.
The Guided Kayak Manatee Viewing & Spring Tour visits over 40 major springs, including Three Sisters Springs and Hidden Spring. The All-Clear Paddle Tour offers a two- to two-and-a-half-hour guided paddle in All-Clear tandem kayaks with dry-box storage, included photos, and the option to swim with manatees. Equipment such as wetsuits and snorkeling gear is provided on select guided tours. Rental options cover multiple durations—two, three, five, and eight hours—as well as multi-day rentals with drop-off and pick-up service within a five-mile radius and operating hours from 7:30 am to 5 pm.
Specialized offerings include a four-hour Guided Eco-Tour for outback exploration and annual memberships for frequent visitors. Hunter Springs Kayak emphasizes small groups, direct access to Crystal River springs and islands, and photographic documentation on select tours, making it a practical choice for visitors seeking guided wildlife viewing, spring exploration, or flexible watercraft rentals.
Completed waivers are required for rental participants to ensure a seamless experience and confirm readiness before boat drop-off and pick-up safety procedures.
Location
Crystal River, FL
Operates from Hunter Springs area
Small Groups
10 max
Private tours limited to 10 participants
Rental Lengths
2–8 hrs +
2, 3, 5, 8 hour and multi-day
Photo Packages
Select tours
Professional photos on guided trips
Reserve guided manatee swims, clear kayak rentals, or multi-day packages — small-group tours, photo packages, and flexible rental lengths available.
Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothing
Opt for moisture-wicking attire and water shoes to stay comfortable during your paddling adventure.
Bring sun protection
Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses to shield from the Florida sun.
Stay quiet and respectful
Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing manatees and other wildlife.
Carry binoculars or a zoom camera lens
Enhance your wildlife viewing experience with equipment that allows close-up observation.
PFD (Life Jacket)
A properly fitting life jacket is essential for safety on the water.
Sun Hat
Provides shade and protection from sun exposure during your tour.
Waterproof Camera or Smartphone
Capture memorable wildlife encounters without worry of water damage.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the tour, especially during warm days.