THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Jump into the clear waters of Crystal River and experience scalloping like never before. Glide over sandbars, spot hidden scallops, and discover Florida’s vibrant marine life on this fun-filled eco tour perfect for all ages.
Jump into the clear waters of Crystal River and experience scalloping like never before. Glide over sandbars, spot hidden scallops, and discover Florida’s vibrant marine life on this fun-filled eco tour perfect for all ages.
Book with Manatee Tour and Dive
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Manatee Tour and Dive · Crystal River, Florida
Experience an unforgettable day with Manatee Tour and Dive on the Scallop Tour in Crystal River, Florida. This 6-hour eco-friendly adventure invites all ages to snorkel over shallow sandbars in the Gulf of Mexico, searching for elusive bay scallops in their natural habitat. Guided by expert local captains, you’ll float gently on the water’s surface, spotting vibrant fish, coral, and underwater grasses as you hunt for scallops. Scalloping is like an exciting underwater Easter egg hunt—using just a mask, snorkel, and fins, you dive deep to catch scallops that cleverly camouflage among the seagrass. Not only is this a thrilling experience, but it also offers a unique chance to appreciate the delicate balance of the coastal ecosystem, as scallops serve as indicators of water quality. Traveling with Manatee Tour and Dive means you’re fully licensed, insured, and supported by knowledgeable guides providing expert assistance and 24/7 peace of mind. Whether you’re joining family or friends, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, education, and connection to Florida’s pristine Nature Coast.
easy.
6 hours.
Participants should be comfortable in water and able to snorkel but no advanced physical fitness is required.
No, if you are booked on a tour with a licensed and insured captain, they provide the necessary licenses for the group.
Bring a mask, snorkel, fins, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes. The captain provides the boat and licenses.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and all ages are welcome to join with parental supervision.
Tours may continue in light rain, but in severe weather conditions they may be rescheduled for safety.
Yes, recreational harvesting is allowed during the season, but only by hand or net and within local regulations.
Yes, the vessel is equipped with restroom facilities for your convenience during the 6-hour tour.
Crystal River has long been a center for scalloping and manatee conservation, with efforts dating back to the late 1990s to restore scallop populations and protect marine ecosystems.
Strict harvesting regulations and collaboration between the Fish and Wildlife Commission and local institutions ensure sustainable scallop populations and healthy water quality.
Manatee Tour and Dive operates guided marine tours from Crystal River, Florida, specializing in manatee snorkel experiences, scallop expeditions, sightseeing cruises, and private charters. Captain Charlie and a team of licensed captains lead small-group excursions focused on safe, respectful wildlife viewing and hands-on coastal recreation. All tours run from Kings Bay and nearby Gulf waters, with equipment provided for standard snorkel trips and optional gear rental for other adventures. The company offers multiple experiences to suit families, anglers, and nature enthusiasts: Exclusive Manatee Snorkel Tour and Manatee Snorkel Tour in Kings Bay; scallop-focused Scallop Tour and Private Scallop Tour in Gulf waters; Spring Hopp! seasonal spring snorkel outings; and a 1.5-hour SightSeeing Tour highlighting local ecosystems. The Manatee Snorkel Tour is a three-hour guided experience with gear and photography included. Private Scallop Tour charters accommodate up to six passengers for as long as eight hours. Manatee Tour and Dive follows federal and state wildlife guidelines for manatee interactions and emphasizes captain-led safety briefings, respectful distance, and minimal disturbance. Boats and gear are maintained to industry standards, and staff hold required certifications for vessel operation and guest safety. Guests book tours by date and party size, and charters can be reserved for private groups. As a locally based operator in Crystal River, the company is positioned to provide timely seasonal updates, scallop availability information, and guided access to Kings Bay and the Nature Coast. Reservations are recommended during peak season to ensure preferred dates and group size accommodations and personalized itineraries.
Book with Manatee Tour and Dive