Manatee Encounter in Crystal River with Gulf Coast Expeditions
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic swimming skills recommended; suitable for most fitness levels able to snorkel in calm water
Overview
Swim alongside West Indian manatees in the clear, spring-fed waters of Crystal River with Gulf Coast Expeditions. This guided snorkeling tour offers an intimate look at one of Florida’s most enchanting marine mammals while emphasizing respectful wildlife interaction.
Manatee Encounter
Small group guided tour
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Enjoy a close encounter with the West Indian Manatee
Duration
3 Hours
About
Snorkel with the Manatee with a guided tour from our U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains. Tours conducted daily in the beautiful Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Get up close and personal with these amazing mammals and learn about our ecosystem and their habitat.
Unlike many tours, our captain will actually swim with you and your group to ensure that you have a memorable experience that is both exhilarating for you and safe for the manatee.
During your trip you will be offered the opportunity to rent a high quality underwater digital camera to shoot photos and videos of your encounter. You will also have the option of having the captain be your group's personal photographer and you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
What to Expect
Much like Elephants on an African Safari, Manatees are protected in the refuge and may not be approached within certain boundaries, remember this is THEIR home we are visiting, so we cannot guarantee an encounter with these amazing animals. Peak encounter season is November through March when the water temperatures lure these gentle mammals to the warm, spring fed waters of the Crystal River. While the water temperature is a consistent 72 degrees the air temperatures during these times vary, but they will dip consistently into the 30's-50's so you can get a little chilly once you exit the water.
If you are booking parties of 7-12 people you will need to book two boats. Both boats will go out together and stay together during the whole trip.
What to Bring
• Hats and/ or Sunglasses (Polarized Lenses are best to see Manatees) • Swim Suit • Sunscreen • Comfortable/Warm Clothes to cover up once out of the water
What we Provide
• Masks • Snorkel • Wet Suits
Adventure Tips
Wear a wetsuit for water temperature
The river stays around 72°F year-round, which can feel chilly when stationary; wetsuits keep you comfortable during the snorkel.
Use polarized sunglasses
Polarized lenses reduce glare on the water, improving your ability to spot manatees just below the surface.
Respect manatee boundaries
Keep a safe distance and avoid sudden movements; manatees are protected animals and require gentle, calm encounters.
Bring warm clothes for post-swim
Air temperatures, especially November to March, can be cool once you exit the water—pack a jacket or towel.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- West Indian manatee
- Great blue heron
History
The Crystal River area was designated a National Wildlife Refuge in 1983, protecting critical habitat for manatees and other native species.
Conservation
Gulf Coast Expeditions follows strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to manatees, supporting ongoing research and habitat protection efforts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm in the consistently cool spring-fed water.
fall|winter|spring specific
Polarized sunglasses
Helps reduce glare when spotting manatees on the water surface.
Snorkel mask and snorkel
Enables breath control for relaxed underwater viewing.
Waterproof camera or rental underwater camera
Capture underwater photos without risking your device.