See Crystal River - Mantee & Wildlife Viewing Cruise

Name: See Crystal River - Mantee & Wildlife Viewing Cruise
Price: 42.95 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.77 (302 reviews)

Overview

Available languages

English

1 hour 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Embark on a captivating guided wildlife boat tour that promises adventure, education, and unforgettable viewing of King's Bay.

As you step aboard, you'll be greeted by our expert captain and knowledgeable naturalist guide, who will serve as your hosts for the duration of the 1.5-hour excursion.

One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to encounter the beloved Florida manatees in their natural habitat. These fascinating creatures can be encountered year round in Crystal River. You'll have the chance to observe these magnificent mammals up close, learning about their behaviors, habitat, and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them.

Our expert guide will point out an array of bird species that call this area home, from majestic bald eagles to elegant herons.

Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, photographer or simply seeking a memorable outdoor adventure, our guided wildlife boat tours promise an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Infants are considered passengers by the USCG and require a ticket.

Children Under 3 we recommend a private trip

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is a manatee sanctuary nestled in the heart of Florida's Nature Coast. Spanning over 80 acres, this refuge is a haven for an array of wildlife, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the region's natural wonders. One of the refuge's most enchanting features is its resident population of West Indian manatees. These gentle giants, often referred to as "sea cows," seek refuge in the warm spring waters of Crystal River during the winter months, making it one of the premier destinations for manatee viewing in the United States. A resident herd of 40-60 manatees make the refige home year round. Beyond the manatees, the refuge is home to a diverse array of bird species, including herons, egrets, ospreys, and bald eagles. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot these majestic creatures as they soar overhead or wade through the shallows in search of food. Join us on a boat safari into this amazing preserve and see for yourself.

Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Tour Boats are covered to provide shade.

USCG Inspected Tour Boats

1.5 Hour Narrated Boat Tour

USCG Licensed Captain & Guide

Sunglasses - Polarized lenses are best for seeing into the water.

Binoculars are available for rental - Adult $12 / Child $6

Parking Fees

Options

See Crystal River - Mantee & Wildlife Viewing Cruise

Reviews

4.77

302 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

269

‘See Crystal River’ Tour was superb
Brian N,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Excellent 90-minute trip. Lots of folks on the water. Our Skipper (name begins with ‘A’) did a superb job driving, guiding, informing. VERY safe trip. Will recommend this tour service in the future.
Worth the money, and then some
seankT7299XX,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
A great tour. The captain Aiden was extremely knowledgeable and went out of his way to ensure that participants got the best tour experience possible
Fun trip. Clean boat....
Diana P,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Fun trip. Clean boat. Friendly and knowledgeable captain. Right number of guests for the size of the boat.
Don’t waste your money it’s terrible.
V2168YCjosephb,,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00
We had high expectations when we got there. However, our experience was much different. The bathrooms before we got in were disgusting and all clogged up. Then we got on the boat. The tour guide never said hardly anything. The whole way out we saw the shadows of four manatee and then we went back in. I can’t tell you how much I would not recommend you going to this. It was awful. Don’t waste your money. You can’t find a place to park. The bathrooms are disgusting disorganized it was horrible.
Captain Marty and a Great Adventure with Manatees
THEODORE R,,Jan 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
We had an outstanding time on our Crystal River adventure. Our guide was outstanding. Captain Marty spoke about the Manatees and explained what we were seeing on our adventure. We could not have asked for a better guide. Every one in our party agreed that our adventure will be remembered for years to come. I plan to recommend this experience to friends and family.
Interesting and enjoyable trip
I7805DGmarcb,,Jan 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Captain Marty was excellent. He was interesting and funny and answered all questions. The time passed quickly and the views of manatees was great. I would recommend this to all ages.
Manatee trip
Mark M,,Jan 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
It was so interesting to see so many Manatees all in one place. The Captain Marty was so funny, it always makes for a fun trip.
Great tour! Captain Brody is the best!!
jeffoZ3423ZZ,,Jan 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had a great time on the trip and saw a large amount of manatees, a couple of bald eagles and numerous other birds and wildlife. Our captain, Brody, was truly amazing. He was very knowledgeable and interactive with the group. I will give him 10 stars! We had our sights on Cajun Jimmy's Seafood Sellers and Cafe to eat after the trip and as we were deboarding the boat, Brody highly recommended Cajun Jimmys. You will not be disappointed with the tour or the above mentioned restaurant!
Great time in the water
Charles H,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
See Crystal River is the way to go to view wildlife and manatees (in season). We had a wonderful experience in a comfortable and safe boat with very experienced and knowledgable Captain Marty at the helm. We highly recommend using See Crystal River!
Checking Out the Manatees
Lauren M,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
A low key way to see manatees in their own environment. We happen to have captain Marty and he was awesome. Very knowledgeable about the area and the manatees. He also cared very much about safety for us on the boat and the swimmers and kayakers in the water. If you’re thinking about doing this trip, ask for Marty.