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
683 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
10/10 do it!
EJR830,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide was amazingly laid back and we saw so many manatees! It was the most enjoyable trip! Highly recommend!
We saw the Manatees!
KDFaustel,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Went to see the manatees with hundreds of friends (we forgot it was a holiday weekend…and also a festival weekend!!) A little crowded but it didn’t matter, we had a great crew helping us get in and out of the kayaks and Jax was very helpful and knowledgeable about the manatees and their surroundings. It was a fun experience…hopefully we will do it again!!
Great excursion, our tour...
Keri B,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great excursion, our tour guide Cypress was great!! Saw lots of manatees. Kayaking not difficult even for my 8 year old.
Absolutely great tour....
Connie M,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Absolutely great tour. Our guide, Cypress was wonderful, very knowledgeable, and made it fun and exciting for our family. Highly recommend this tour.
Cannot see manatees from the kayak
Pathfinder605608,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00Don’t go here if you want to see the manatees. You can’t see them from the kayaks and the tour guide will not let you get near them. The water is very cloudy and you will only be able to see them from a distance, like a shadow under the water. Do the snorkeling tour if you want to see them.
A wonderful experience
A6790ZQheathern,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a great experience! We saw so many manatees while learning to take care of their environment.
bring polarised glasses if you want to see manatees under water
janesT1828EJ,,Jan 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Overall great experience. Some things to know: 1) definitely show up 30 minutes ahead, as you will need to pay for parking via app, sign in, fill out and sign waivers, watch a video, use the restroom. They start right on time. 2) no food or drinks other than water on kayak, 3) must remove shoes on kayak, 4) your butt will get wet. Bring change of clothes 5) we did not have polarised glasses and we could not see anything under water.
A great experience that...
Tia L,,Jan 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A great experience that we totally enjoyed and are in awe of what FL has to offer. The manatees were amazing and the guide Kyle helped us understand the habitat and facts about the manatees.
A Must Do
Tanya C,,Jan 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very fun. Even on a cloudy day the tour guide made sure we all saw some manatees. Great sites and information along the tour.
Great time kayaking looking for manatees. DO IT!
Karen B,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide RJ was FANTASTIC. Ask for him. He’s knowledgeable, funny, thoughtful and relaxed. He made our adventure. We saw SO MANY Manatees because of his thoughtful, relaxed approach. We never felt rushed, and he included everyone in the group. He’s great at his job. Thank you RJ for making Sheila’s birthday a great one. Kayaking on Crystal River and looking for Manatees is something everyone should do if they’re able to. Until next time…..
From US$79.00
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Operated by Paddles Outdoor Rentals