Adventure Collective
Explore Manatee Swim Tours in Crystal River, Florida - Tampa

Explore Manatee Swim Tours in Crystal River, Florida

Crystal Rivereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic swimming skills and comfort in the water.

Overview

Discover a one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida. Join Explorida’s guided Manatee Swim Tours for an intimate wildlife encounter you won't forget.

Guided Tour
Crystal River, Florida

Manatee Swim Tours

3 Hours • Ages 3+ • Starting at $59+ • Most Popular!

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

Manatee Swim Tours photo 1

About This Adventure

Join us to embark on one of the most memorable experiences of a lifetime.

Duration & Rates

3 Hours - Starting at $59

About

Get up close and personal with the Florida manatee on this 3 hour swim tour in the federally protected waters of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.

Hop aboard our US Coast Guard certified vessel where you will join your Master Captain to embark on your journey into the Kings Bay refuge waters. 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. Your in-water guide will also serve as your professional photographer to capture your memories on film, and those photos will be available for purchase upon arrival back to our facility. For this tour, all required gear is included at no additional charge.

Citrus County is revered as the manatee capital of the world, and swimming with manatees is a privilege that is uniquely ours. Don't miss this chance to get up close and personal with Crystal River's very own gentle giants and take home memories that will last forever. Book your tour today!!!

What to Bring

  • Bathing Suits
  • Towels
  • Flip Flops
  • Water Shoes (Optional)
  • If you wear glasses, they can not be worn with your mask. Contacts are suggested.

Please Note...

This is a wildlife tour. We are interacting with manatee in their natural habitat. While we do see manatee on every tour, we never use the word guarantee because Mother Nature reigns supreme. Conditions vary daily, tour by tour, and can never be predicted. Daily conditions vary seasonally with things like weather, tides, and crowds. You can always call us and ask us what conditions you can expect, and will do the best to set your expectations. At the end of the day, we are dedicated to your experience and ensure we do the best to provide a safe, fun, and memorable trip!!

Adventure Tips

Respect Wildlife Distance

Maintain a safe distance from manatees and avoid touching them to protect their well-being.

Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the water ecosystem during your swim tour.

Stay Hydrated

Bring water and drink plenty before and after the tour to stay hydrated in Florida’s warm climate.

Snorkel Gear Fit

Ensure your snorkeling gear fits properly to maximize comfort and visibility underwater.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • West Indian Manatees
  • River Otters

History

Crystal River has been a vital habitat for manatees and a site of Native American settlement for centuries, reflecting deep connections between people and nature.

Conservation

Local efforts prioritize protecting manatee habitats through regulated waterways, pollution control, and public education on responsible wildlife interactions.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Tampa

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Mask and Snorkel

Essential

Necessary for clear underwater viewing and comfortable breathing while swimming with manatees.

Wetsuit or Rash Guard

Provides extra warmth during cooler months when water temperatures drop.

winter specific

Water Shoes

Protects feet from rocky or slippery surfaces when entering and exiting the water.

summer specific

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin and preserves the delicate aquatic ecosystem.

summer specific