Guided Small Group Manatee Snorkeling Tour with In-Water Photographer
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Enjoy a close, personal encounter with the West Indian Manatee as you snorkel with them under the guidance of a U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain. Our small group (no more than six guests) tours are conducted daily in the beautiful Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Get up close and personal with these amazing mammals and learn about the ecosystem and their habitat.
Unlike many tours, these Captains will actually swim with you and your group to ensure that you have a memorable experience. While in the water, your captain/tour guide will take high-definition photos and videos of you and your group which you will be able to view and purchase at the end of your trip.
Your price includes all snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, wetsuit) and complimentary coffee or hot cocoa.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Guests with limited mobility are welcome, but must call us to make prior arrangements
Single travelers may be required to change time or date of tour depending upon availability
Use of a ladder is required to get into/out of the water. Please give us a call if you have any health related questions.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Professional guide
Wetsuits
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Coffee and hot cocoa
Gratuities
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
What To Expect
Upon arrival at the dive shop, guests will be fitted for wetsuits (included in price) and asked to watch a brief video from US Fish and Wildlife outlining their encounter with the manatees. The captain and guide will then take the group to the boat and embark all passengers and give a short safety brief. Once underway, the guide will further explain how to interact with the manatees once in the water and fit the guests with their masks and snorkels. While transiting to the swim areas, the captain and guide will present information about the area wildlife and what guests can expect to see during your tour. They will also answer questions and take pictures along the way. Once the vessel sights manatees, the captain will anchor the vessel and the group and guide will proceed into the water for your encounter. The guide will stay with the group the entire time, ensuring that the guests get the most out of their experience, all while taking photos and videos of your adventure!
Options
Tour
Reviews
1,280 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Our kids said it was “the best day ever!”
Rachel L,
Oct 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00Captain Ron was fantastic!! My husband and I did the tour with 4 of our kids, ages 12, 12, 10 and 4. They all had such an amazing experience. We drove 8 hours round trip to do this tour and it was WELL WORTH IT. Thank you so much. We’ll be back!!
Great experience
Darcy S,
Oct 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00Captain Ross was very friendly and knowledgeable. His team was well trained and put us at ease. We had a great experience and saw multiple manatees and even some dolphins! The photographer captured our memories with great pictures that we will treasure. Definitely recommend!
Great tour even during off season.
Amanda,
Oct 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00Captain Ross was very knowledgeable and Malana captured some great pictures! 10/10 would recommend! I will defiantly be going again!
Manatee swim
Kimberly K,
Oct 11, 2025
- Viator
5.00Staff was fun and knowledgeable. The Crystal Springs were absolutely amazing. The took multiple pictures of us and didn't over charge.
Fun and Easy
Sarah B,
Aug 31, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had a great time with Captain Ron and Malina. They were very sweet with the kids and super relaxed.
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Operated by Gulf Coast Expeditions