Silver Springs: Glass Bottom Kayak Tour with Wildlife Views

Summary

See manatees turtles & old shipwrecks through crystal clear kayaks

You’ll paddle Silver Springs in a glass bottom kayak with a local guide leading the way. Watch for manatees and turtles gliding below you, spot sunken shipwrecks and statues through crystal-clear water, and hear stories of “old Florida.” Expect steady paddling — no stops — but plenty of wildlife moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that shadow?” our guide, Marcus, asked as we drifted near the bank in Silver Springs. I squinted through the glass bottom of my kayak — and there it was, a slow-moving shape gliding under us. A manatee, just doing its thing. The water was so clear you could count the spots on its back if you wanted. Marcus grinned and told us about the springs’ history, how people have been coming here since the 1870s to see what’s under the surface. I didn’t expect to feel this connected to Florida — or to be honest, this nervous about paddling over a sunken shipwreck (which is more surreal than scary).

The river felt alive in a way I can’t really explain — birds calling from somewhere above, a turtle slipping off a log when we got too close, even monkeys rustling in the trees (yes, monkeys in Florida). The glass bottom kayak meant every ripple and fish darting below was right there for us. At one point I bumped my paddle against something hard and Marcus laughed — apparently it was one of those underwater statues he’d warned us about. The air had that humid, green smell you only get in places like this. My arms got tired faster than I thought they would but honestly, I didn’t care.

No stops along the way — just steady paddling and whatever surprises showed up under or around us. There were families with kids in tandem kayaks and older folks too; everyone seemed equally fascinated by what was going on beneath their boats. I kept thinking about how old these springs are and how much life passes through them every day. It’s weirdly humbling, you know? Even now, I still think about that quiet moment floating over the deepest part of the river, not saying anything at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Silver Springs by glass kayak

• Arrive at Silver Springs
• Receive safety briefing from guide
• Board glass bottom kayak
• Paddle through crystal-clear waterways
• View wildlife like manatees and alligators
• Observe sunken shipwrecks and underwater statues
• Enjoy scenic views of old Florida
• Return to starting point

Top questions

How long is the Silver Springs glass bottom kayak tour?

The tour involves continuous paddling for its duration; exact time isn’t specified but expect an easy pace suitable for all ages.

Are manatees commonly seen on this tour?

Yes, manatees are often spotted along with turtles, fish, birds, otters, and sometimes even monkeys.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or children?

Yes, it’s appropriate for all ages and experience levels; children will be paired tandem with an adult.

What’s included in the Silver Springs kayak tour?

You get a glass bottom kayak, padded seat, PFD (life jacket), whistle, floating paddle, dry storage, emergency kit and a local guide.

Are there any health restrictions?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health; moderate fitness is needed.

Can I bring my pet or swim during the tour?

No pets or swimming are allowed during this tour.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Do I need to pay any extra fees on arrival?

An additional park fee of $6 per person is due at check-in.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a glass bottom kayak with padded seat and dry storage space, all safety gear like PFDs and whistles, plus guidance from an experienced local guide who shares stories as you paddle past shipwrecks and wildlife — just remember there’s an extra park fee when you arrive at Silver Springs.