Crystal River: Small Group Manatee Swim & Free Photos

Summary

Swim close to wild manatees in Crystal River with locals guiding you

You’ll slip into the waters of Crystal River with a small group and a local guide who knows every bend of Kings Bay. Float quietly as wild manatees drift past—sometimes close enough to feel their wake—and get all your photos included for free. It’s not always crystal clear or predictable, but you’ll leave with stories (and memories) that stick.

What’s the experience like?

We slid off the boat at Pete’s Pier Marina just after sunrise, wetsuits clinging and the air still cool enough to make me shiver. Our guide, Sarah—she grew up here—pointed out little ripples across Kings Bay, her voice low so we wouldn’t spook anything nearby. I didn’t expect the water to feel so heavy and grassy, or for my heart to thump that hard when she whispered, “There’s one right there.” The manatee looked like a floating boulder until it blinked at me. I tried not to laugh through my snorkel.

The bay is huge—Sarah said it’s about 600 acres—and honestly, I’d have been lost without her. She kept us moving quietly, showing us how to float and wait (not chase), which felt way more respectful than I imagined wildlife tours would be. Sometimes you just hang there, listening to your own breath and the distant slap of a pelican landing somewhere out of sight. The water isn’t always clear—sometimes you only see a shape gliding past your fins—but that made it feel even more real, if that makes sense.

At one point a calf nudged its mom right under me; I froze, not sure what to do with my hands or my brain. Sarah snapped photos—I barely noticed her doing it—and later she sent them all over for free. No awkward upsell or anything. The whole thing was kind of messy and beautiful; I still think about that slow blink from the manatee every time I see those pictures on my fridge.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manatee swim tour in Crystal River

• Meet at Petes Pier Marina
• Embark on small group boat tour
• Locate manatees in Kings Bay
• Exit boat and snorkel with manatees
• Guides lead swim and take photos
• Receive complimentary photo package

Top questions

How many people are on each manatee swim tour?

Each tour has a maximum of 6 guests for a semi-private experience.

Where does the manatee swim tour start?

The tour departs from Pete's Pier Marina in Crystal River’s Kings Bay.

Are photos included in the manatee swim tour?

Yes, all photos and small videos taken during your trip are included at no extra cost.

Do I need previous snorkeling experience?

No prior experience is required, but you should be comfortable floating in water.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours start at Pete's Pier Marina.

What equipment is provided?

Your tour includes wetsuits, snorkel gear, defog solution, and bottled water.

When is the best time for clear water in Crystal River?

The clearest water is usually during manatee season near the springs; other times may have lower visibility.

Can children join this manatee swim tour?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller on the boat but must be able to float if entering the water.

What’s included

Your day covers use of wetsuits and snorkeling equipment (with defog), bottled water throughout the trip, plus all your photos and short videos taken by your guide—no extra fees or upselling when you dry off back at Pete’s Pier Marina.