Crystal River: Manatee Snorkeling Tour & In-Water Photos

Summary

Swim with gentle manatees in Florida’s clear waters

You’ll slip into Crystal River’s clear water alongside wild manatees on this small group snorkeling tour with an experienced local guide. With all gear included and an in-water photographer capturing your moments, you’ll get close to these gentle giants while learning about their world — then warm up with coffee or cocoa as you relive it all on the way back.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the manatees — it was how quiet everything felt on the water that morning in Crystal River. Our captain, Mike, handed out wetsuits with this easy grin and told us not to worry about the cold; he’d seen people from Minnesota swim here in January. I fumbled into mine (wetsuits are trickier than they look), and we watched a short video about how to be respectful around the manatees. I liked that — it made the whole thing feel more thoughtful, not just some touristy splash-around.

As we motored out into the wildlife refuge, Mike started pointing out birds — anhingas drying their wings, a great blue heron stalking something invisible. The air smelled faintly of salt and engine oil, and there was this low hum from the boat. When we finally spotted our first manatee (I almost missed it — they’re so much bigger than you expect but somehow blend right in), Mike anchored us and said, “Alright, masks on.” He got in the water first. I hesitated at the ladder — honestly, my heart was pounding harder than I thought it would.

The water was cooler than I expected but not shocking, and after a minute or two my nerves kind of melted away. Floating there, face down, you hear your own breath echoing through the snorkel and then suddenly — this huge gray shape glides right under you. It’s surreal. At one point a manatee came close enough that I could see little algae patches on its back. Mike was nearby snapping photos (he joked he’d get my “best side,” which is debatable). There’s a weird calm to being that close to something so big and gentle; I didn’t want to leave when he called us back to the boat.

Back onboard, someone handed me hot cocoa (it tasted extra sweet after all that saltwater) and we looked through some of the photos Mike had taken underwater. There were shots where my hair stuck straight up like seaweed — pretty funny actually. On the ride back I kept thinking about how quiet those moments were with the manatees just drifting by. It stays with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manatee snorkeling tour in Crystal River

• Arrive at dive shop
• Get fitted for wetsuits
• Watch US Fish and Wildlife video
• Board boat and receive safety brief
• Receive mask and snorkel fitting
• Learn about local wildlife en route
• Spot manatees and anchor boat
• Swim with manatees guided by captain
• Captain takes photos and videos

Top questions

How many people are on each Crystal River manatee snorkeling tour?

Tours are limited to six guests per group for a more personal experience.

Is snorkeling equipment provided for the manatee tour?

Yes, wetsuits, masks, and snorkels are included in your booking.

Are children allowed on this manatee snorkeling trip?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Will there be a guide swimming with us during the tour?

Yes, your captain or guide will be in the water with you at all times.

Can I get photos from my Crystal River manatee encounter?

An in-water photographer takes photos and videos available for viewing or purchase after your trip.

Is coffee or hot chocolate included?

Complimentary coffee or hot cocoa is offered during your tour.

What if I have limited mobility?

The tour welcomes guests with limited mobility but asks that you call ahead for arrangements; use of a ladder is required to enter/exit the water.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkeling equipment—mask, snorkel, wetsuit—plus complimentary coffee or hot cocoa after your swim. A licensed captain guides your small group throughout Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and joins you in the water while taking high-definition photos and videos of your encounter for you to view or purchase at trip’s end.