Join Hunter Springs Kayak for a three-hour guided paddle in Crystal River and encounter manatees, dolphins, and turtles in their natural habitat. Limited to 10 participants, this intimate tour offers stunning spring waters and professional photography to capture your journey.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, as the waters are calm and paddling minimal.
Wildlife
History
Crystal River has long been a habitat for manatees, which were once hunted but are now protected under federal law, making it one of the best places in the world to see these gentle giants up close.
Conservation
Guided tours emphasize respectful wildlife viewing practices to preserve the area’s aquatic ecosystem for future generations.
Hunter Springs Kayak
Join Hunter Springs Kayak for a three-hour guided paddle in Crystal River and encounter manatees, dolphins, and turtles in their natural habitat. Limited to 10 participants, this intimate tour offers stunning spring waters and professional photography to capture your journey.
Hunter Springs Kayak is a Crystal River, Florida outfitter specializing in guided kayak tours, manatee swim experiences, and watercraft rentals.
The company operates a range of guided and self-guided options, including private and shared kayak manatee swim tours, eco-tours, spring-viewing excursions, and rental packages for clear kayaks, tandem kayaks, single kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes. Guided experiences include the Guided Kayak Manatee Swim Tour and private three-hour King’s Bay tours with a maximum of 10 participants and a full photo package from professional underwater photographers.
The Guided Kayak Manatee Viewing & Spring Tour visits over 40 major springs, including Three Sisters Springs and Hidden Spring. The All-Clear Paddle Tour offers a two- to two-and-a-half-hour guided paddle in All-Clear tandem kayaks with dry-box storage, included photos, and the option to swim with manatees. Equipment such as wetsuits and snorkeling gear is provided on select guided tours. Rental options cover multiple durations—two, three, five, and eight hours—as well as multi-day rentals with drop-off and pick-up service within a five-mile radius and operating hours from 7:30 am to 5 pm.
Specialized offerings include a four-hour Guided Eco-Tour for outback exploration and annual memberships for frequent visitors. Hunter Springs Kayak emphasizes small groups, direct access to Crystal River springs and islands, and photographic documentation on select tours, making it a practical choice for visitors seeking guided wildlife viewing, spring exploration, or flexible watercraft rentals.
Completed waivers are required for rental participants to ensure a seamless experience and confirm readiness before boat drop-off and pick-up safety procedures.
Location
Crystal River, FL
Operates from Hunter Springs area
Small Groups
10 max
Private tours limited to 10 participants
Rental Lengths
2–8 hrs +
2, 3, 5, 8 hour and multi-day
Photo Packages
Select tours
Professional photos on guided trips
Reserve guided manatee swims, clear kayak rentals, or multi-day packages — small-group tours, photo packages, and flexible rental lengths available.
Wear Water-Resistant Sun Protection
Protect yourself from sunburn with water-resistant sunscreen and a hat, as you'll spend plenty of time in open water.
Bring a Waterproof Camera or Phone
Capture wildlife encounters easily with waterproof gear—professional photos are included, but your own shots can make great memories.
Arrive Hydrated and Ready for Flexibility
Streams and springs are calm, but be prepared for potential weather changes—dress accordingly and bring water.
Respect Wildlife Distance
Maintain a non-intrusive distance from manatees and other animals to ensure their safety and your enjoyment.
Sun-Protective Clothing
Keeps you protected from UV rays during long hours on the water.
summer
Dry Bag
Keeps your valuables safe and dry during the paddle.
Sunscreen
Apply frequently to prevent sunburn while on the water.
spring|summer|fall
Water Shoes
Provides grip and comfort when launching and docking.