Crystal River , United States

River Cruise Tour with Manatee Viewing

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(76 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

With so much wildlife to enjoy, the Nature Coast beckons you to explore! Our Eco-tour will enlighten the wildlife enthusiast, amateur photographer, birdwatcher and every individual in between! Grab your binoculars and join us for an eco-journey to take in the sparkling springs and the calming river.

Kings Bay is the second largest spring system in Florida, which is fed by dozens of fresh water springs spitting out more than 280 million gallons of fresh water daily! The bay serves as the head waters for the Crystal River and is extremely unique and incredibly important to each animal species that depend on it for survival. Wading birds, waterfowl, black crowned night herons, wood storks, bald eagles, brown and white pelicans, osprey, red-tailed hawks, and of course the endangered manatee are just some of many animals that depend on this ecosystem to sustain themselves! Your Captain and Mother Nature will team up to ensure the most unforgettable, awe-inspiring time possible!

Available options

River Cruise Tour with Manatee Viewing

What's included

Water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our Master Captain will cruise around the wildlife refuge and point out various birds, mammals, springs and shar information about the area.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

20 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

56 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Check in at the front desk of River Ventures Manatee Tour Center 15 minutes prior to your tour departure time.

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.