Swim with Manatees and Become a Mermaid in Crystal River, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be comfortable swimming in calm, shallow waters.
Overview
Discover Crystal River's unique opportunity to swim with wild manatees and learn the art of mermaiding in one unforgettable aquatic adventure. Perfect for families and nature lovers alike!
Manatees & Mermaids
Ages 6+ | 4-5 Hours | Private for up to 6 People for Manatees, 2 Mermaid Participants Included
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Manatees & Mermaids package! Swim with majestic manatees in Crystal River, then transform into a mermaid with expert guidance. This private experience for up to 6 guests combines education and fun, making it a magical day for families and friends alike.
$450 Private adventure includes manatee tour for up to 6 people followed by 2 people of the same party to participate in the Try Mermaid course
$75 Each additional Try Mermaid course participant
Fantasy & fun for the entire family!
Duration
5 hours total, departing once daily at 7:30AM This is a Swimming Adventure
About
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This is a private trip limited to up to 6 guests per boat We can run multiple boats together to accommodate larger parties.
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Additional Try Mermaid course participants beyond the 2 included in the base price can be added for $75 per person additional cost.
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Ability to swim on your own and basic swimming skills are required for all Try Mermaid participants. Snorkel equipment, wetsuits, and required “diver down” marker flag are included.
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Mermaid tail provided for Try Mermaid participants.
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We provide an experienced in-water guide on every trip to assist you, as the Captain must remain with the vessel as per USCG regulations.
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Our guides bring an underwater camera with photographs available for purchase after the tour on a manatee-shaped 4GB thumb drive so you can bring your experience home with you!
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What to bring: yourself, bathing suit, towel, sunblock, any water, snacks or refreshments you like, and your sense of adventure!
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When to arrive: please arrive at the shop 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Adventure Tips
Book Early for Best Availability
Tours fill up quickly, especially in manatee season—reserve your spot well in advance to ensure your private boat experience.
Respect Manatee Viewing Rules
Always follow your guide’s instructions to minimize disturbance to the manatees and protect these gentle creatures.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Capture underwater moments during the swim but secure your device with waterproof protection to avoid damage.
Wear Comfortable Swimwear
Choose comfortable bathing suits and bring a change of dry clothes and towels for after the water activities.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- West Indian Manatee
- Great Blue Heron
History
Crystal River’s springs have sustained indigenous cultures and settlers for centuries, and today the area protects manatee populations through strict regulations.
Conservation
Tours operate under strict guidelines to minimize impact on manatees and their habitats, emphasizing education and responsible wildlife interaction.
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Adventure Hotspots in Crystal River
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimsuit
Worn under the wetsuit for comfort during water activities.
summer specific
Towel
To dry off and stay warm after swimming.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from Florida’s strong sun during outdoor portions of the trip.
summer specific
Waterproof Camera or GoPro
For capturing underwater moments around the manatees and mermaid sessions.