Crystal River: Small Group Manatee Snorkel Tour & Springs

Summary

Swim close to manatees in Crystal River’s clear springs with a guide

You’ll wake early in Crystal River and join a small group for a gentle boat ride to the springs. Slip into your wetsuit, then float quietly among wild manatees as your guide shares stories and takes photos of your encounter. It’s peaceful, sometimes funny, always honest — you’ll leave feeling lighter somehow.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the quiet — not silence exactly, but that soft hum of early morning in Crystal River. We shuffled into the little shop downtown, still half-asleep, and met Captain Drew (who immediately handed me coffee — hero). Wetsuits felt weird at first, like trying on someone else’s skin, but everyone just laughed about it. There were only six of us, so it didn’t feel crowded or awkward. The boat ride out was chilly and the air smelled faintly briny, kind of sweet too — maybe from the mangroves? Anyway, I kept watching the water for any sign of movement.

Our guide, Tessa, explained how the manatees come here for the warm springs — she pointed out Three Sisters Springs as we floated past. She said sometimes you get dozens of them together if it’s cold enough. Today there were a few drifting near the surface, their noses poking up every so often. Getting in was… honestly colder than I expected even with the wetsuit (I yelped; no shame). But then you’re floating and everything slows down. The manatees move like big gray clouds underwater. One came right up to me — I could see its whiskers twitching. It’s hard to describe how calm they make you feel.

Tessa took photos while we floated (she caught me making a ridiculous face when a manatee rolled over). She told us how important it is not to chase or touch them — just let them come if they want. Sometimes one would brush by my arm and I’d freeze up, not wanting to mess up their peace. There was this moment when everyone just went quiet except for some muffled laughter through snorkels and the sound of our own breathing. I still think about that view looking up through sunlit water with a manatee drifting by overhead.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manatee snorkeling tour in Crystal River

• Arrive at downtown Crystal River facility
• Receive snorkeling gear and tour briefing
• Travel to Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
• Observe manatees from boat and water
• Swim in Three Sisters Springs with manatees
• View and purchase manatee encounter photos

Top questions

How long is the Crystal River manatee snorkel tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Is snorkeling gear included in the manatee swim?

Yes, all snorkeling gear including mask, snorkel, and wetsuit is included at no extra cost.

How many people are on each small group tour?

The semi-private manatee snorkel tour is limited to 6 participants per group.

Are guides in the water during the tour?

Yes, professional guides accompany guests into the water on all tours.

Can children join the manatee snorkel experience?

Children 3 years old and up can join with a paid ticket; under 3s are welcome on private trips.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins at a full-service facility and gift shop in downtown Crystal River.

Are photo packages available after swimming with manatees?

Yes, you can purchase photos taken by your guide after your tour ends.

Is parking free at the meeting point?

Yes, free parking is provided at the facility in Crystal River.

What’s included

Your day includes free parking at the downtown Crystal River facility, all snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, wetsuit), a scenic boat ride out to the springs with only six guests per group, plus an experienced local captain and an in-water guide who also takes photos during your swim with wild manatees.