moderate
8 hours
Participants should have basic swimming skills and be in moderate physical condition to enjoy snorkel excursions and boat activities comfortably.
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.
$150pp Private Charter Only • 8 Hours • Ages 3+
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!
**Private Charter 1-8 People: $1,200.00 Each additional person is $150 Maximum guests: 14
8 Hours
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!
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
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.
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.
For your Manatee and Scallop Quest, you will first be meeting at our gift shop located at:
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.
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
Maintain a slow pace and avoid touching manatees to ensure their safety and comfort during your swim.
Protect your skin and the environment by using sunscreen that won’t harm aquatic life.
Capture underwater moments and wildlife encounters without risking damage to your device.
The seabed can be slippery or rocky when scalloping; water shoes provide protection and grip.
Crystal River has long been a sacred site for Native American tribes, especially the Seminole, who revered its warm springs as healing waters.
Efforts in Crystal River focus on protecting manatee habitats and water quality, ensuring these gentle giants thrive while promoting sustainable tourism.
Essential for exploring underwater and spotting manatees and scallops clearly.
summer specific
Protect your skin and the marine environment from harmful UV rays and chemicals.
summer specific
Keeps you warm during colder months and longer swims in chilly waters.
winter specific
Provides traction and protects feet when walking in shallow, uneven, or rocky areas.