Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear, including wetsuits, masks, and snorkels, are provided by Conchy Charters.

Can children participate in the tour?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, provided participants are comfortable in water.

Are the tours affected by weather?

Tours may be canceled or rescheduled in case of thunderstorms or rough seas for safety reasons.

How close will I get to the manatees?

Guides ensure respectful distances are maintained, allowing for safe, up-close viewing without disturbing the animals.

What should I bring with me?

Bring a sense of adventure, waterproof sunscreen, and any personal items, though essentials are provided on-site.

Is prior experience required?

No experience needed—guides will assist with gear and show you how to safely enjoy the water.

Manatee Swim Tour by Conchy Charters in Crystal River

Adventure Brief

Join Conchy Charters in Crystal River for a three-hour swim alongside Florida's gentle manatees. Perfect for families and nature lovers, this guided tour offers an up-close encounter in warm, clear waters—complete with all gear and comfort amenities. Discover why this is a must-do wildlife experience in Florida’s Gulf Coast.

3 hours

easy

From $89.59

Crystal River, in the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast, offers a rare chance to come face-to-face with one of nature’s most gentle giants: the manatee. Conchy Charters’ Manatee Swim Tour provides a captivating three-hour journey into their natural habitat, perfect for families and adventurers eager to witness these peaceful creatures in the wild. Unlike typical boat rides, this experience emphasizes active participation — slipping into a wetsuit, donning a mask and snorkel, and gently gliding through the warm, clear waters where manatees often gather. The boat's heated deck ensures comfort, even during cooler months, while complimentary hot chocolate and bottled water make the outing both cozy and convenient.

The tour is designed with safety and ecological respect at its core, giving guests a meaningful way to appreciate these endangered animals without disturbing their natural routines. Its location in Crystal River, renowned for its spring-fed waterways, makes it a prime spot for spotting manatees year-round. Guided by local experts, travelers can expect an educational, up-close encounter in a setting where wildlife viewing feels authentic and intimate.

What sets Conchy Charters apart is their commitment to conservation and community connection. Their experienced guides are passionate about preserving Florida’s unique aquatic ecosystem, ensuring each trip supports sustainable tourism. This tour isn’t just an adventure; it’s a chance to foster a deeper understanding of the local environment while making lifelong memories with loved ones.

Whether visiting Florida’s west coast for the first time or returning to experience its renowned wildlife, the Manatee Swim Tour by Conchy Charters offers a rare, immersive experience that reminds us of the importance of safeguarding these gentle giants for future generations. With its blend of comfort, education, and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, it’s a standout activity in the region’s vibrant outdoor scene.

About Conchy Charters

Conchy Charters is a locally owned boat charter operator based in Crystal River, Florida. Specializing in manatee interactions and coastal excursions, Conchy Charters offers a range of guided experiences including manatee swim tours, scalloping tours, manatee viewing eco tours, fishing charters, sand bar/Sandy Hook excursions, and sunset cruises. Captains and crew provide all necessary equipment for specific trips—wetsuits, masks, and snorkels for swim and scalloping tours—and operate heated, passenger-friendly vessels for comfort in cooler water.

For anglers, Capt. Sean leads inshore and nearshore fishing charters available as half-day and full-day options along the Nature Coast. The business emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing: manatee swim tours and eco tours follow local regulations and prioritize the animals' welfare by guiding visitors to observe or swim at safe distances under captain supervision. Scalloping and snorkeling charters explore grass flats in Crystal River and Homosassa, offering family-friendly opportunities to discover marine life. Sand bar and Sandy Hook tours provide private captain-led leisure time on shallow sandbars, while sunset cruises deliver Gulf views with a relaxed two-hour itinerary. Conchy Charters accommodates non-swimmers with a manatee viewing eco tour that requires no water entry. Reservations, trip durations, included gear, and complimentary amenities like bottled water and hot chocolate on selected tours are provided per trip descriptions. Conchy Charters operates from Crystal River and focuses on safe, guided, small-group marine experiences for families, anglers, and nature enthusiasts. Bookings are available year-round subject to seasonal wildlife patterns and local guidelines to ensure quality experiences for every guest and family.