Crystal River: Semi Private Manatee Swim Tour & Heated Boat

Summary

Swimming with manatees in crystal river up close with expert guides

You’ll float quietly beside wild manatees in Crystal River, guided by pros who know every inch of Kings Bay. Wetsuits keep you warm while you watch these gentle giants graze below. With a small group and heated boat, it’s easy to relax—even if you’re new to snorkeling. You might leave feeling oddly protective of these slow-moving locals.

What’s the experience like?

“They’re not in a hurry—just like me on my day off,” Captain Rick grinned as he steered us out from the dock at Crystal River. The boat heater hummed quietly and I could smell coffee (someone brought their own thermos, smart move). Our guide, Jess, handed out thick wetsuits and asked if anyone had snorkeled before. I hadn’t. She promised to keep an eye on me, which helped since my nerves were louder than the engine at first.

The water was colder than I expected when I slid in—kind of sharp against my cheeks, but the suit did its job. Jess floated near me and pointed out a round gray shape below. “That’s a mama,” she whispered, and honestly I almost forgot to breathe watching her graze along the grass. There was this weird hush underwater, except for my own bubbles and the soft scrape of manatee lips on seagrass. At one point another swimmer’s fin brushed my leg and I startled—felt silly after—but nobody seemed to notice or care.

I kept drifting back toward the boat for warmth (the smaller group meant there was space to move around without bumping elbows). Someone asked Jess about manatee scars—she explained how boat propellers leave marks, and you could see them up close if you looked carefully. It made me feel protective in a way I didn’t expect. On the way back we wrapped up in towels and sipped tea; steam fogged up my glasses so I just sat there listening to everyone talk about their favorite moments. The sun came out right as we pulled into the dock—not sure if that was luck or just Florida doing its thing.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manatee swim tour at Kings Bay

• Meet at private docks
• Receive wetsuit, mask, snorkel
• Learn manatee facts and safety
• Swim alongside manatees
• Enjoy water and towel service
• Use heated changing facility and showers

Top questions

Is this manatee swim tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, all skill levels are welcome and guides provide full instructions.

Are wetsuits included on the Crystal River manatee swim?

Yes, 5mm Henderson wetsuits are provided for all guests.

Does the tour include heated facilities or boats?

Yes, both the boat and changing areas are heated for comfort.

How many people are on each semi private manatee swim tour?

The tours use smaller boats for more personal groups compared to standard tours.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours depart from private onsite docks.

Can children join this Crystal River manatee swim tour?

Yes, infants and small children can participate; prams or strollers allowed onboard.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted during the activity.

What is provided during the swim besides equipment?

Coffee or tea is offered onboard along with towels after your swim.

What’s included

Your morning includes use of a thick wetsuit, mask and snorkel gear, plus hot coffee or tea served on a smaller heated boat with towel service after your swim. Changing rooms with hot showers are available back at the private dock before you head home feeling refreshed—and maybe a little attached to those gentle giants.