Swim alongside gentle manatees in Crystal River with Big 3 Charters, an experience that blends adventure and conservation. Guided by Captain Dylan, this family-friendly tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a close encounter with Florida’s iconic marine mammals.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic swimming ability recommended; no advanced skills required
Wildlife
History
Crystal River has long been a critical habitat for manatees, earning recognition as a manatee sanctuary in the 1980s to protect the species.
Conservation
Big 3 Charters emphasizes sustainable tourism that minimizes environmental impact while fostering awareness about manatee conservation efforts.
Big 3 Charters
Swim alongside gentle manatees in Crystal River with Big 3 Charters, an experience that blends adventure and conservation. Guided by Captain Dylan, this family-friendly tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a close encounter with Florida’s iconic marine mammals.
Big 3 Charters operates out of Crystal River, Florida, offering guided fishing, scalloping, manatee, and eco sightseeing trips aboard a fully equipped 25’ Skiff. Captain Dylan leads each excursion with local knowledge of Crystal River's waterways, wildlife, and seasonal conditions. Trips include Fishing Charter, Scalloping Charter, Manatee Tours, Eco Sightseeing Tour, and 3 Sister Springs Tour. All gear is provided for manatee swims and scalloping, and the vessel accommodates small private groups for a personalized experience. Safety and conservation are prioritized on every trip; Captain Dylan follows local regulations for wildlife encounters and harvesting to protect Florida’s Gulf Coast ecosystems. The fleet focuses on family-friendly experiences that suit anglers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts. Guests can expect guided navigation to popular spots such as Three Sister Springs, prime scalloping beds, and productive fishing flats. The 25’ Skiff is equipped for a comfortable day on the water and supports both active outings and relaxed sightseeing. Booking options include private charters tailored to group size, activity preference, and seasonal conditions. Big 3 Charters is featured on The Adventure Collective, where trip listings and booking details are available to help visitors plan. For anyone seeking a reliable Crystal River operator that provides equipment, local expertise, and small-group outings, Big 3 Charters offers straightforward, fact-based trip choices led by an experienced captain.
Reservations can be made online through listing platforms and by phone. Seasonal availability varies; guests are encouraged to book early for peak winter manatee season and summer scalloping days for best preferred dates.
Location
Crystal River, FL
Central to manatee and spring sites
Vessel
25' Skiff
Equipped for fishing and snorkeling
Captain
Captain Dylan
Local guide with area knowledge
Tours Offered
5 Tours
Fishing, manatees, scalloping, more
Secure a private fishing, scalloping, or manatee tour today — limited group sizes and seasonal spots fill quickly.
Wear quick-drying, modest swimwear
Light, quick-drying clothing helps prevent chafing during swims and comfortably handles water entry and exit.
Book early during peak seasons
Manatee tours are highly popular in winter; booking ahead guarantees your spot and a better chance at sightings.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
Protect yourself from the strong Florida sun while remaining comfortable during outdoor water activities.
Respect the wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from manatees and follow all guidelines provided by your guide to ensure safe, ethical interactions.
Swimsuit
A comfortable swimsuit is essential for swimming with manatees during the tour.
summer
Sunscreen
Water-resistant sunscreen helps protect your skin during sun exposure on the water.
Waterproof camera or phone case
Capture your experience without risking water damage.
Hat and sunglasses
Additional sun protection while waiting or relaxing on deck.