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Manatee Swim and Scallop Charter in Crystal River, FL - Tampa

Manatee Swim and Scallop Charter in Crystal River, FL

Crystal Rivermoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

8 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic swimming skills and be in moderate physical condition to enjoy snorkel excursions and boat activities comfortably.

Overview

Dive into an unforgettable day in Crystal River with a private swim alongside manatees and a thrilling scallop dive. Fresh seafood and expert guidance await you on this unique Florida adventure.

Boat Tour
Dinner Boat
Fishing
Marina
Snorkel
Crystal River, Florida

Manatee Swim and Scallop Charter

$150pp Private Charter Only • 8 Hours • Ages 3+

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Adventure Photos

Manatee Swim and Scallop Charter photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 8-hour adventure in Crystal River, swimming with gentle manatees and diving for delicious scallops. Guided by experts, you'll explore protected waters and learn to scoop your own scallops, with the added bonus of having them shucked for you. Enjoy a unique underwater treasure hunt and savor the freshest seafood!

You asked, so we created it! We have brought together the best that Crystal River has to offer in this all inclusive Manatee Swim and Scallop Charter!!

Rates

**Private Charter 1-8 People: $1,200.00 Each additional person is $150 Maximum guests: 14

Duration

8 Hours

About

On this exciting journey you will hop aboard our USCG certified Vessel and join your captain and guide to first get up close and personal with the Florida manatee in the federally protected waters of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. You will be paired with one of our expert in-water guides who will be with you every step of the way to assist in making your manatee encounter safe and memorable. Once you have enjoyed your time swimming with our beloved manatees, it will then be time to run down river and out to the beautiful seagrass beds in the Gulf of Mexico called the "Scallop Grounds".

Upon arrival to the scallop grounds, your guide will ensure you know just what you are looking for and show you how to scoop your score! Once you are comfortable in the water, your guide will scallop along with you to contribute to your haul and help you get as close to limit as possible! At Explorida, we are dedicated to going above and beyond… so your captain and guide will even shuck your scallops for you!!!!

Recreational scallop limits are 2 gallons per person, no more than 10 gallons per boat. This yields about a pint of meat per person which is perfect for a delightful dinner! On your scallop charter, your captain and guide will share some of their favorite recipes or even direct you to some local restaurants that will cook your shucked scallops for you so you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy!!

With us, you are sure to enjoy this salty swim and an epic underwater treasure hunt!! The delectable bay scallop is truly a Florida treasure, so don't miss this chance to scoop your own and enjoy the freshest dinner money can buy!

What's Included

Fishing License For All Wetsuit for the Manatee swim Mask, Snorkel, Fins Scallop Bags Coolers With Ice Bottled Water USCG Master Captain In Water Guide/ Scalloper

What to Bring

Soft Sided Coolers/Insulated Bags ONLY Lunch, Snacks, Beverages of Any Kind. (Please No Glass) Sunscreen (NO AEROSOL, PLEASE) Hats, Sunglasses, Sunshirts/Rashguards Towels Glasses Can Not Be Worn Under Your Mask. Contacts are Suggested.

Please Note

Diving for scallops is for the more experienced swimmer. While you will be snorkeling in the shallow gulf waters, scooping scallops requires you to dive down in depths of 5-8 feet on average.

IMPORTANT

For your Manatee and Scallop Quest, you will first be meeting at our gift shop located at:

EXPLORIDA

545 N Citrus Ave Crystal River, FL 34428

We will get you prepared and suited up for your manatee tour. You will then drive down to the Marina where our boats are located called Pete's Pier.

Pete's Pier

1 SW 1st Place Crystal River, FL 34429

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. We HIGHLY recommend driving the least amount of vehicles possible as this is a very busy time of year and parking spots are limited.

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".

You will find your Captain 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 at 352-423-3798

Adventure Tips

Respect Manatee Guidelines

Maintain a slow pace and avoid touching manatees to ensure their safety and comfort during your swim.

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect your skin and the environment by using sunscreen that won’t harm aquatic life.

Pack a Waterproof Camera

Capture underwater moments and wildlife encounters without risking damage to your device.

Wear Comfortable Water Shoes

The seabed can be slippery or rocky when scalloping; water shoes provide protection and grip.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Florida manatee
  • Bottlenose dolphin

History

Crystal River has long been a sacred site for Native American tribes, especially the Seminole, who revered its warm springs as healing waters.

Conservation

Efforts in Crystal River focus on protecting manatee habitats and water quality, ensuring these gentle giants thrive while promoting sustainable tourism.

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Adventure Hotspots in Tampa

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Snorkel Mask and Fins

Essential

Essential for exploring underwater and spotting manatees and scallops clearly.

summer specific

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin and the marine environment from harmful UV rays and chemicals.

summer specific

Lightweight Wetsuit

Keeps you warm during colder months and longer swims in chilly waters.

winter specific

Water Shoes

Essential

Provides traction and protects feet when walking in shallow, uneven, or rocky areas.