Crystal River Manatee Viewing Cruise
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
This tour is the perfect way to stay dry and view the wild manatees of the Kings Bay Wildlife Refuge.
Hop aboard our US Coast Guard certified vessel where you will join your Master Captain to embark on a journey into the Kings Bay refuge waters. On this tour, you and the group will join us for one of the most memorable experiences of a lifetime!
During this trip we will search for our world famous wild manatees that give Crystal River the title of "The Manatee Capital of the World." There is also a chance to see many other species of birds, turtles, and even a dolphin every now and then so be on the lookout for the impressive variety of wildlife that calls the refuge "home".
What to Bring
Polarized Sunglasses
Important Information
We will be meeting at the address below, and please arrive twenty minuets prior to your scheduled tour time.
Explorida Adventure Center
545 North Citrus Ave
Crystal River, FL 34428
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You will meet at our gift shop, where your tour driver will shuttle you to the Marina
Children Under The Age Of 3 & Pets/Service Animals Are Only Permitted On Private Tours
This is a wildlife encounter, and due to the unpredictability of Mother Nature, conditions vary daily. If you have any questions, feel free to call
In order to maintain operational efficiency, we require a minimum of three guests per boat to operate. Guests may purchase additional tickets if the capacity is not met, which will be reimbursed if another group joins.
Trip Advisor is a third party booking system designed to reserve tours with Explorida Adventure Center. Visit our website for more information and to connect with Explorida directly.
This activity is not accessible for guests with mobility limitations
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Children Under The Age Of 3 & Pets/Service Animals Are Only Permitted On Private Tours Pete's Pier is the Marina where you will meet your Captain to board the boat.
What‘s Included
Bottled Water
USCG Licensed Captain
Gratuities
Options
Manatee Viewing Cruises
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Boat
Reviews
1,188 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great Crystal River Cruise with Captain GQ
Ruth746,Mar 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Captain GQ found 4 manatees for us to view during the delightful cruise! He is knowledgeable, friendly, and lots of fun! It’s definitely worth the cost. Be sure to take a cruise with GQ when visiting Crystal River!
Kings Bay Cruise
Luke h,Mar 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fun, friendly, informative, they know how to find manatees Captain GQ was great!………..,…………………………………..
Cruise
Compass30918737322,Mar 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great boat ride. Saw Manatees, Alligator and lots of birds
Natural habitat mantee experience
S2040RKralphl,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent tour. Our tour guide Chris was knowledgeable about all aspects of the bay and wildlife. We were fortunate to have many sightings. The bonus was a pair of dolphins following us around
Bucket List
librarychick,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I have a terminal illness and seeing manatees in the wild was a bucket list item for me. We did the 8:45 on Sunday-we almost missed it due to a 45 minute backup on the turnpike but by some miracle, they hadn't left yet when we arrived (there were happy tears!). Great experience, great staff. Saw a few manatees (we were a bit late in the season and knew that going in) but also tons of birds and 2 alligators. Highly recommend.
Good tour
Theresa D,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The boat driver was very knowledgeable. He answered lots of questions. We saw about eight manatees on our tour, including one baby. The boat driver was very good at picking out where the manatees were swimming.
For a good time, come to Crystal River for an experience of a lifetime!
Martin A,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The food, the people and the wildlife! The weather was perfect and so was the great fun you’ll have in this magical city.
It was a fantastic time for my wife and I. Our boat captain was very informative. Hands down it was a great trip.
John M,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our trip was a boat ride only. No swimming with the Manatees. It was still a fantastic trip. Next time we'll more than likely try the swim trip.
Loved it!
805jeanniej,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Peaceful trip with a knowledgeable, friendly captain and lots of manatees!
A great day to spend with family. Enjoyed very much!
Mobile238616,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was perfect. We were not expecting to see that many. Our captain was amazing. Would recommend !
From US$45.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Explorida