Are the tours suitable for children?

Yes, tours are family-friendly; children should be comfortable in the water and able to wear snorkeling gear.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Besides manatees, you may encounter turtles, fish species, and aquatic plants unique to Florida springs.

Is prior snorkeling experience required?

Basic snorkeling skills are recommended but the guides offer orientation and support.

Are tours private or group-based?

All tours are private, accommodating up to six guests for a personalized experience.

What time of year is best for manatee viewing?

Manatees congregate from late fall through spring when water temperatures drop, but tours run year-round.

What should I bring on the tour?

Bring swimwear, a towel, waterproof camera, and eco-friendly sunscreen; snorkeling gear is provided.

Private Manatee Snorkel Tours in Williston, Florida | Private | Boat Tour

Located in Williston, Florida, Private Manatee Tours offers a uniquely intimate way to connect with one of the Sunshine State’s most beloved marine residents—the gentle manatee. This three-hour private snorkeling trip lets up to six guests glide alongside these slow-moving giants in their natural freshwater habitats, guided by an experienced Captain and Inwater Guide dedicated to ensuring safety and unforgettable encounters. The shallow springs and rivers around Williston provide prime conditions for spotting manatees, with clear waters offering excellent visibility to witness these curious creatures up close.

What sets Private Manatee Tours apart is its exclusivity and personal touch. Unlike larger group excursions, this private adventure feels tailored, allowing families, photographers, and marine enthusiasts to observe and interact at a relaxed pace. The guides are well-versed in manatee behavior and local ecology, sharing insights about their biology, conservation challenges, and the surrounding ecosystem.

Williston’s natural springs are characterized by crystal-clear water fed from the Floridan Aquifer, supporting a vibrant community of aquatic plants and wildlife that sustains the manatees. These slow-moving mammals are federally protected, and the tour emphasizes responsible viewing practices to minimize disturbance. The area’s karst limestone formations create a unique underwater landscape that adds visual interest to the snorkel experience.

This tour offers more than wildlife viewing; it also connects visitors with an endangered species' story and inspires ongoing stewardship of Florida's freshwater environments. Whether capturing breathtaking underwater photos or simply soaking in the serenity of the springs, guests leave with deepened appreciation for this remarkable ecosystem and its inhabitants.

About Bird’s Underwater

Bird’s Underwater, based in Williston, Florida, operates guided marine experiences around Crystal River, Kings Bay and nearby waterways. The company offers a variety of seasonal and year-round trips designed for families, photographers, divers and seafood enthusiasts. Seasonal Scalloping Tours run July 1 through September 24 and include hand-catching scallops while snorkeling in warm water at depths of 3 to 5 feet; snorkeling gear, snacks and drinks are provided. Private Manatee Tours are three-hour private snorkel experiences with a dedicated Captain and Inwater Guide, all snorkeling gear provided, and accommodate up to six passengers. The Guided ECO Tour is an hour-long surface adventure around Crystal River and Kings Bay that highlights local wildlife—fish, birds and manatees—without getting wet while sharing regional history. Scuba instruction includes Discover Scuba introductory sessions, Open Water Scuba certification courses with E-Learning and hands-on training, and a Scuba Diving Class that offers expert instruction and a globally recognized certification; students receive lifelong discounts on gear as noted. Night offerings include a Guided Night Dive on Rainbow River featuring illuminated exploration of boiling sands, fish and turtles, beginning with a boat ride and returning to K.P. Hole Park. For advanced training, the Rescue Class teaches rescue diver skills and emergency first-aid techniques for divers. Bird’s Underwater emphasizes safety through provision of gear, guided staff and structured courses, catering to beginners and experienced participants seeking guided, educational and hands-on marine experiences. Bookings welcome families, photographers, and small groups looking for guided waterfront activities and hands-on marine education in Williston.