Blue Spring: St. Johns River Cruise & Manatee Watching

Summary

Florida’s wild river life up close from Blue Spring docks

You’ll board right inside Blue Spring State Park for a slow drift along the St. Johns River, spotting wild manatees, wading birds, and maybe even an alligator or two. Your local guide shares stories as you glide past cypress forests—sometimes funny, sometimes quiet—always real Florida. Restroom onboard keeps things easy so you can just focus on what’s outside.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, we almost missed the start of our St. Johns River cruise at Blue Spring because I got distracted by a squirrel raiding someone’s picnic — classic me. But once we made it down to the dock, the air felt thick and sweet, that kind of humid Florida morning where everything smells like wet leaves and sunscreen. Our guide, Tom (who had this sunburned nose and easy laugh), waved us aboard with a “you folks ready for some surprises?” I thought he was joking, but turns out you never really know what you’ll see out here.

The boat moved slow enough that you could hear the slap of water against the hull and spot little ripples where turtles slid off logs. We drifted past cypress trees draped in Spanish moss — honestly, it looked like something out of an old movie. Tom pointed out a blue heron fishing so still it looked fake, then suddenly there were these gentle manatees surfacing near us. Their noses poked up for air and everyone went quiet except for one kid who whispered “they look like floating potatoes.” He wasn’t wrong.

I didn’t expect to feel so peaceful watching wildlife just do their thing — no rush, just birds calling and sunlight flickering through branches. There was this moment when an alligator slid into the water nearby (I might’ve gripped my seat a bit tighter than necessary) but Tom just grinned and told us how they keep their distance if you respect theirs. The whole cruise lasted about two hours but time felt weirdly stretched out, in a good way. You know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — St. Johns River Nature Cruise

• Enter Blue Spring State Park
• Board St. John Boat Tour
• Observe wildlife on river cruise
• Spot manatees, birds, and alligators
• Enjoy cypress forests and aquatic plants

Top questions

Where does the St. Johns River cruise depart from?

The boat tour departs from inside Blue Spring State Park.

Can I see manatees on this tour?

Yes, Blue Spring is considered one of the best places in Florida to see manatees.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on the boat during the cruise.

Are children allowed on the St. Johns River cruise?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are allowed.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to pay an entrance fee to Blue Spring State Park?

Yes, park entrance fee is required to access the boat tour.

How long does the river cruise last?

The cruise lasts approximately two hours.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to Blue Spring State Park (entrance fee required), a guided nature cruise along the St. Johns River with plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities, restroom facilities onboard for comfort throughout the trip—plus all ages and abilities are welcome on board with strollers or wheelchairs easily accommodated.