Manatee Swim Tour with In Water Photographer

Crystal River , United States

Manatee Swim Tour with In Water Photographer

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(2243 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our Manatee Swim tour at Explorida was Voted Trip Advisors 2022 "Top Ten Bucket List Experience in THE WORLD!" Swimming with the manatees is a once in a lifetime experience so do it right! Dont cram into a small dive shop. Spread out and enjoy plenty of space at Explorida! The Explorida Adventure Center offers a large, top notch facility that is climate controlled with indoor changing rooms for your privacy. Our boats are U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified, which means they are allowed to carry more than 6 passengers, have all necessary safety equipment, and are in tip top shape. Dont get stuck on a clunker! Book with Explorida! We are dedicated to the customer experience and will not disappoint! Let us prove it!

Available options

Daily Rate

What's included

Safe USCG Certified Boats

Bottled water

In-Water Gude/Photographer

Wetsuit

Float Noodles Provided

Snorkel Gear

Detailed itinerary

Hop aboard one of our safe, comfortable, and clean US Coast Guard certified vessels where you will join your Master Captain to embark on your journey into the Kings Bay refuge waters. Our master captains are trained to find manatees on your manatee tour, even in the offseason, and will deliver the best manatee tour in Crystal River, FL—every time. You will be paired with one of our expert in-water guides who will be with you every step of the way to assist in making your manatee tour safe and memorable. Your in-water guide will also serve as your professional photographer to capture your manatee swim memories, and those photos will be available for purchase upon arrival back to our facility. For this tour, all required gear is included at no additional charge.

You can swim with manatees in Citrus County, Florida. Swimming with the manatees is a privilege that is unique to Citrus County, which is why the small county has earned its world famous title of the ‘Manatee Capital of the World’. Nowhere else in the world can you legally swim with the manatees in their natural habitat, as you can do with us! When looking for things to do in Florida, add swimming with the manatees to the top of your list, and let Explorida be your guide!

What's not included

Photos and videos available for an additional fee at the end of your tour.

Available languages

Audio guide

DE FR ES

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

165 reviews

5★

150

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2,078 reviews

5★

2035

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Level One Snorkel Experience Recommended

Infants are still considered to take up a seat on a USCG Inspected Vessel. You must pay full price for an infant.

Children Under The Age Of 3 & Pets/Service Animals Are Only Permitted On Private Tours

This is a wildlife encounter, and due to the unpredictability of Mother Nature, conditions vary daily. If you have any questions, feel free to call

In order to maintain operational efficiency, we require a minimum of three guests per boat to operate. Guests may purchase additional tickets if the capacity is not met, which will be reimbursed if another group joins.

Trip Advisor is a third party booking system designed to reserve tours with Explorida Adventure Center. Visit our website for more information and to connect with Explorida directly.

Meeting point

The Explorida Adventure Center is the first Building on the left when turning west on to N. Citrus Avenue from Highway 19.

About Crystal River

Crystal River is a unique destination known for its clear springs and manatee population. It offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical sites, making it a great place for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Top Attractions

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

This refuge is home to the largest concentration of manatees in the world. Visitors can see these gentle giants year-round, with the best viewing from November to March.

Nature Half day to full day Free entry, but guided tours and activities may have fees

Crystal River Archaeological State Park

This park preserves the site of an ancient Native American settlement. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the region's rich history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free entry, but donations are appreciated

Three Sisters Springs

This stunning spring system is part of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Nature Half day Free entry, but guided tours and activities may have fees

Must-Try Local Dishes

Grilled Grouper

Fresh grouper caught locally and grilled to perfection, often served with a lemon butter sauce.

Main Course Gluten-free, can be made without dairy

Key Lime Pie

A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Popular Activities

Kayaking Snorkeling Hiking Swimming Sunbathing Waterfront dining Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the best time to visit for manatee viewing and outdoor activities. The weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the springs and wildlife.

15-27°C 60-80°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (UTC-5) or EDT (UTC-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Crystal River is a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when swimming in natural springs, as currents can be strong.
• Lock your car and secure valuables when parking in public areas.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Crystal River Regional Airport • 5 km from city center
Tampa International Airport • 110 km from city center

By bus

Crystal River Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable and convenient for getting around, but schedules may be limited.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Homesite Park

Day trips

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

30 km from Crystal River • Half day to full day

This state park is home to a variety of wildlife, including manatees, alligators, and black bears. Visitors can enjoy wildlife shows, nature trails, and a scenic boat ride.

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

40 km from Crystal River • Full day

This state park is famous for its mermaid shows and crystal-clear springs. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and riverboat cruises.

Festivals

Crystal River Manatee Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge early in the morning for the best manatee viewing experience and fewer crowds.
Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season (November-April).
Bring waterproof gear for kayaking and snorkeling, as you may get wet.
Respect the environment and wildlife by following guidelines and regulations.
Try local seafood specialties, especially grouper and shrimp.