Crystal River: Manatee Swim Tour & In-Water Photographer

Summary

Swim with gentle manatees in Florida’s Kings Bay refuge waters

You’ll float quietly beside wild manatees in Crystal River’s clear waters, guided by locals who know every corner of Kings Bay. All your gear is included and an in-water photographer captures those honest moments you won’t want to forget. It’s peaceful, sometimes funny, always real — an experience that stays with you long after you towel off.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what a manatee feels like gliding past your arm? I didn’t expect to feel so calm floating there in Kings Bay, but something about the slow, steady movements of those huge, gentle creatures just makes you forget everything else. Our guide, Mike, handed me a wetsuit at the Explorida Adventure Center — which was way bigger and less chaotic than I’d pictured — and cracked a joke about my “snorkel chic” look. The place even smelled faintly of sunscreen and coffee (someone had a thermos open nearby), which made it feel more like a sleepy morning at a friend’s house than the start of a tour.

The boat ride out was quieter than I thought it’d be. There were only six of us plus the captain, and everyone seemed half-awake until we spotted our first manatee nose breaking the surface. Mike explained how Citrus County is basically the only place where you can legally swim with manatees in their natural habitat — he sounded proud, honestly. When I finally slipped into the water (it’s colder than you think), I remember hearing nothing but my own breathing and then this weird, almost electric silence before a big gray shape drifted up next to me. My heart did this little skip; they’re massive but somehow not scary at all.

Our in-water guide doubled as photographer — she got this photo of me looking completely stunned that I still laugh about. She pointed out how to float without splashing so we wouldn’t disturb them (I tried, but my noodle kept drifting away). At one point, a baby manatee rolled over right under my hand. I’m not sure if it was curious or just showing off for the camera. The whole thing felt strangely intimate for something so public — maybe because everyone stayed pretty quiet except for some muffled laughter through snorkels when someone kicked their fin off by accident.

I keep thinking about that moment afterward — the weightlessness, the cool water pressing against my face, sunlight flickering down through greenish ripples while these ancient animals just… exist around you. If you’re looking for things to do in Florida that don’t feel rushed or crowded, this manatee swim tour from Crystal River is one of those rare times you actually get to slow down and notice what’s right in front of you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manatee swim tour in Crystal River

• Arrive at Explorida Adventure Center
• Use indoor changing rooms
• Board US Coast Guard certified vessel
• Meet Master Captain and in-water guide
• Embark on manatee tour in Kings Bay refuge
• Swim with manatees in natural habitat
• In-water guide takes professional photos
• Return to facility and view photos

Top questions

Can anyone swim with manatees in Crystal River?

Yes, swimming with manatees is allowed only in Citrus County, Florida — nowhere else can you legally do this in their natural habitat.

Is all snorkeling gear included on the tour?

Yes, wetsuits, snorkel gear, and float noodles are provided at no extra charge.

How many people are on each boat during the manatee swim tour?

The USCG certified boats can carry more than six passengers; minimum three guests per boat are required to operate.

Are photos included or extra on this tour?

An in-water guide takes photos during your swim; these are available for purchase after returning to the facility.

Is lunch included on the Crystal River manatee swim tour?

No lunch is included; bottled water is provided onboard.

Can infants or young children join?

Infants take up a seat and must pay full price; children under 3 are only allowed on private tours.

What if there aren’t enough guests booked for my date?

If fewer than three guests book your time slot, you may purchase additional tickets or be reimbursed if another group joins later.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to Explorida Adventure Center.

What’s included

Your day includes all required snorkel gear (wetsuit, mask, float noodles), bottled water on board, guidance from local captains and an expert in-water photographer who captures your swim with wild manatees before returning to shore together.