Clear Kayak Manatee Ecotour of Crystal River
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Join us on a guided eco-tour of Crystal River on ALL clear kayaks! Throughout the expedition, you will have the opportunity to view the beautiful nature and wildlife that we are known for including over 70 freshwater springs. You will have the opportunity to possibly view dolphins, pelicans, tarpon, turtles, otters, various species of birds, and our beloved manatees. There will be plenty of chances to take pictures on our guided tours and a picture package will be available for purchase at the end of your tour.
THIS TOUR DOES NOT GO INSIDE THREE SISTERS SPRINGS! Three Sisters Springs is closed during manatee season and it will remained closed during the Summer months in 2023 for maintenance. Three Sisters Springs will not reopen until April 1st of 2024 for kayaking.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Maximum weight of 250 pounds for a single rider and maximum weight of 420 pounds for 2 riders
You may be paired with another rider in your party to accommodate maximum participants
You must arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled start time or the tour will leave without you with no refund given.
This is a guided eco tour and as such wildlife and water conditions will vary on each tour.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Get set for an unforgettable adventure with Paddles Outdoor Rentals! Slide into our awesome all-clear kayaks with one of our fun, super-knowledgeable local guides who know every inch of Crystal River. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, learn cool facts about our unique ecosystem, and keep your eyes peeled for incredible wildlife: manatees gliding right underneath, turtles, dolphins, colorful birds, and schools of fish! This is Florida’s #1-rated clear kayak tour during manatee season—with amazing chances to spot those gentle giants almost every day. Whether you’re exploring springs or chasing manatee magic, you’ll make memories that last forever. Spots fill up fast—book now and get ready to make waves! Important Details: All kayaks are tandem for max stability & fun Weight limits: 250 lbs per person; 420 lbs total for two riders. Odd-numbered groups? We’ll pair you with another friendly adult. Families with kids (3-12): Must include at least one person 13+ to pair with minors—no pairing minors with strangers. Every booking requires at least one adult (18+). If the full tour is odd-numbered, one guest may ride solo in a double kayak. Sorry, no pets on tours except service dogs
What‘s Included
Clear Kayak
Paddle
Life Vest
Optional Picture Package $37.99
Gratuity For Tour Guides
Parking Fee
Marina Launch Fee
Options
All Clear Kayak Manatee Viewin
Reviews
693 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Best Clear Kayak Tour Ever
Elizabeth A,,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jax was absolutely amazing! We booked an early morning clear kayak tour and ended up having the experience all to ourselves, which made it even more special. She was incredibly knowledgeable about the area and the manatees, and you can tell she truly loves what she does. The clear kayaks gave us the most unreal views — seeing the manatees glide right beneath us was unforgettable. This is the tour to do if you’re in the area. Highly recommend!
Jess keeps a sharp eye...
Kelly D,,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Jess keeps a sharp eye out for the creatures - they blend in to the water. She's extremely knowledgeable of the springs, history, and the manatees.
Manatee Love
C9710RAjoed,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you want to be with Manatees, learn about Manatees, and love Manatees - clear kayak ecotour with Jessica
Great experience but hidden fees with Viator
Elaine E,,Feb 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00We loved the experience but suggest that you call the company directly. Viator has hidden fees. The guide was great as well as the staff. Fees to park as well as marina fees for the launch. Viator charged extra than calling the company.
Find a different vendor
X7711GXsteves,,Feb 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00They charged extra fees for parking and dock use in addition to the trip advisor charges. They were not very organized and treated us like step-children for using a third party like trip advisor. If you need a bathroom it is a port-a-pot 150 yards from their location. Book direct or find a different vendor.
Super fun!
michelleaQ5826JZ,,Feb 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Kyle with the smile was an amazing guide today! We saw so many manatees along with turtles, fish, and a variety of birds!
I have written 2 extensive explanations but each time it cuts out on me and won’t let me finish. Jessica was great! It c
currina,,Feb 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00The first one cut me off at word 120 and then said I couldn’t go forward unless I had 100 words. Jessica was great. Other than that no one cared. The guy let go of the kayak when he said he’d help. Downhill from there. I asked so many questions to decide whether to go. Each thing told to me did not happen when it was over. I had knee surgery and no one helped. Charged $40 for pics. Last year, same company $0. Charged $5 launch fee for 3rd party booking. Last year $0. They told me I couldn’t pull myself out with the bar if I kayaked but then didn’t allow it because it would scratch the kayak. Same person who said okay then denied me access. I injured myself.
Fun with friends
Jodi K,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We saw tons of manatees. Our guide JESS was amazing. She was the best she knew all the great spots to find them and her pictures were amazing.
Excellent experience
ellensL3345UM,,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was amazing. Loved Kyle with the smile. We saw so many manatees. I would highly recommend doing this trip. It was a highlight of our Florida visit.
False advertising
Sightseer552203,,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00This tour was not at all like the photos. It was crowded and the water was not that clear. We saw 2 manatees at most and it was the opposite of serenity. Our guide was very apologetic, but the boats and snorkeling tours were so prevalent in the small route we took that it was hard to kayak around all the swimmers and boats in the lagoon where the water is clearest. Overall, it felt like a complete misrepresentation.
From US$79.00
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Operated by Paddles Outdoor Rentals