Cruise Florida's Nature Coast on a private pontoon tour for up-close manatee encounters and rich wildlife viewing. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required
Wildlife
History
Crystal River area has been a vital manatee habitat since indigenous times, with recent conservation programs protecting these marine mammals since the 1970s.
Conservation
The tours follow strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to manatees, supporting local efforts to preserve this fragile ecosystem.
Manatees in Paradise
Cruise Florida's Nature Coast on a private pontoon tour for up-close manatee encounters and rich wildlife viewing. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
Manatees in Paradise operates guided wildlife and snorkeling tours based in Crystal River, Florida. The company offers a range of small-group and private excursions focused on observing West Indian manatees and exploring Florida’s Nature Coast. Tours run from intimate semi-private snorkel trips to longer private scallop hunts, all aboard comfortable pontoon boats that accommodate up to six guests.
Captains Derek Schmidt and Jake Bauer lead many of the tours and guide guests through the springs, channels, and islands of Kings Bay and surrounding waters. Semi-Private Snorkel Tours include wetsuits, snorkels, and masks for guests. Private Snorkel Tours provide a 2–3 hour personalized experience for small groups, while Eco-Tours and Sunset Eco-Tours offer 1.5 to 2 hour dry cruises for wildlife viewing and scenic exploration. The Private 5hr Scallop Adventure focuses on bay scallop harvesting during the season, and Custom Private Party Charters allow guests to tailor stops and timing for celebrations or small gatherings.
Manatees in Paradise emphasizes small group sizes and private options to create more personalized outings on the water. The operation is based in Crystal River and focuses activities within the local springs and waterways. Visitors can choose from multiple trip formats depending on interests, time availability, and group size. Listings include clear trip names, durations, and included gear where applicable, helping guests select the appropriate experience. Reservations are arranged per trip and guests should review trip descriptions for exact start times, meeting locations, and any seasonal requirements such as scallop season or manatee protection guidelines beforehand.
Location
Crystal River, FL
Nature Coast manatee habitat
Max Group Size
Up to 6 guests
Intimate pontoon boat capacity
Tours Offered
6 tour options
Snorkel, eco, scallop, private
Featured Captains
Derek & Jake
Captains Derek Schmidt and Jake Bauer
Secure a spot on a semi-private snorkel, private charter, eco-cruise, or scallop adventure—select a trip and book online.
Bring polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare on water for better spotting of manatees and turtles.
Apply reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the fragile aquatic ecosystems from harmful chemicals.
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing
Keeps you comfortable during the 1.5-2 hour tour under the Florida sun.
Stay seated and keep noise low
Minimizes disturbance to manatees and other wildlife for respectful viewing.
Binoculars
Helps spot distant wildlife and enhances viewing of birds and manatees.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated in Florida’s warm climate during the tour.
summer
Wide-brim hat
Provides sun protection on the boat during afternoon hours.
summer
Camera with zoom lens
Capture detailed images of wildlife without relying on getting too close.