Join Big 3 Charters in Crystal River for a hands-on scalloping adventure that blends fun, education, and fresh Gulf Coast cuisine. This guided trip offers a unique way to experience Florida’s shallow waters and discover its marine bounty.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; guests should be comfortable wading or standing in shallow water.
Wildlife
History
Crystal River has long been a hub for Gulf Coast fishing and scalloping activities, dating back generations of local tradition.
Conservation
Big 3 Charters emphasizes sustainable harvesting practices to protect the marine environment for future generations.
Big 3 Charters
Join Big 3 Charters in Crystal River for a hands-on scalloping adventure that blends fun, education, and fresh Gulf Coast cuisine. This guided trip offers a unique way to experience Florida’s shallow waters and discover its marine bounty.
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 Water-Friendly Footwear
Closed-toe shoes or water sandals provide safety and grip while wading through shallow waters.
Apply Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing help prevent sunburn during long hours on the water.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Capture the vibrant underwater scenery and your scalloping haul with a waterproof device.
Check Weather Forecasts
Plan your trip on calm, clear days to ensure safety and optimal scalloping conditions.
Waterproof Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare and sunlight while on the water.
summer
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and lightweight, UPF clothing shield you from sunburn.
spring-summer
Waterproof Bag
Keep personal items dry during the trip.
Light Knife or Clipper
Useful for cleaning or preparing your scallops after harvesting.