Join a semi-private snorkel tour in Crystal River with expert captains for close encounters with Florida manatees in Kings Bay’s crystal-clear waters. Small group size and provided gear offer a unique, eco-conscious experience.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for swimming and entering/exiting water multiple times
Wildlife
History
Kings Bay and Crystal River have been vital to local communities for centuries and played a role in Native American culture and early European settlement.
Conservation
The tour prioritizes minimal environmental impact by limiting group size and encouraging responsible wildlife viewing to support manatee preservation.
Manatees in Paradise
Join a semi-private snorkel tour in Crystal River with expert captains for close encounters with Florida manatees in Kings Bay’s crystal-clear waters. Small group size and provided gear offer a unique, eco-conscious experience.
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.
Book Early for Winter Months
Manatees flock here in winter; reserve spots months ahead to secure your tour.
Dress in Provided Wetsuits
Water remains around 72°F year-round; wetsuits keep you comfortable during snorkels.
Respect Wildlife Space
Maintain distance to avoid stressing manatees; follow guide instructions carefully.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect delicate aquatic ecosystems by avoiding harmful chemical sunscreens before tours.
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Protects both your skin and the aquatic environment from harmful chemicals.
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Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Capture underwater moments with manatees without disturbing them.
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Swimsuit
Wear a swimsuit under your wetsuit for comfort and convenience.
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Quick-dry Towel
Helpful for drying off promptly after snorkeling in cooler water.
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