Semi Private Manatee Swim Tour

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours

Mobile ticket

As the leaders in the industry we feel it is our duty to have all our tours conducted by professionals. Our Manatee snorkel tours are guided by USCG Captain as well as a licensed and insured dive professional. Our in water professionals are trained as first responders, with First aid, CPR, AED administration and in-water rescue training. Captain and guides are also trained in manatee manners, through the Manatee Eco Tourism Association in coordination with United States Fish and Wildlife Service. The training allows us to lead the industry by operating the saftest tours on the water for our guest and manatees alike.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

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

What To Expect

Join us as we explore the Kings Bay National Wildlife Refuge to find and swim alongside the gentle giants. As you embark on your journey, your Captain and In-Water Guide will teach you everything you need to know about interacting with these gentle creatures. In addition to learning manatee facts and their behavioral patterns, our captains are extremely knowledgeable about the Crystal River and Florida’s manatees, so they’ll be able to answer any questions you may have. Our tours include: full wet suits, mask, snorkel, water and towel service. All of our tours leave from our onsite private docks, with heated changing facility and hot showers.

What‘s Included

Use of Snorkelling equipment

Coffee and/or Tea

Smaller Boat with Heat

5 MM Henderson Wetsuit

Options

Semi Private Manatee Swim Tour

Reviews

5.00

233 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

233

Old ladies dream come true
Dars-Karr-Keys,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This was a once in a lifetime experience for me. I fell in love with the manatee on my last trip to Florida. One came beside my paddleboard and put a flipper on my hand and looked into my eyes... I knew I wanted to be in the water with them. I am not a huge water loving person, especially not cold water. It was 28 degrees that morning... wonderful for seeing Manatee! Sara was an absolute gem. I put her in the same category as the manatee... calming, peaceful and reassuring. I had an absolute panic when I slid into that cold 64 degree water... but along came Sara. Swimming into the spring into 72 degree water felt a lot better! There were soooo many Manatee and with babies! I got to watch one nurse right in front of my eyes. Another large one slid softly beside me, another resting on the bottom rolled over on its back and played.... They were everywhere in the spring that day due to the cold temps...They are just peaceful gentle animals Captain Glenn Wilsey was another exceptional person. His extensive knowledge and love of the Manatee and all Florida wildlife was another huge part of the enjoyment of my morning. Many Thanks to Sara Newman and Captain Wilsey of Paddletail Adventures. You made my dream happen!
Best experience ever!!!
James-Anna B,,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I had the absolute best experience on this snorkeling trip. Glenn and Dani were top notch and made the experience so enjoyable and memorable. Highly recommend this company to ANYONE (family, solo, kids).
Amazing adventure snorkeling with the gentle, adorable manatees!
dianesV5637DG,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Ross our tour guide and Captain Steve were terrific! Ross was very kind, friendly & knowledgeable and took amazing videos and photos of our adventure. Steve skillfully steered the boat away from any rocks as it was low tide and served us manatee mocha afterwards. The wet suits were of high quality and much appreciated. One of the manatees was nose to nose with my son and Ross caught it on his GoPro! Highly recommend these guys!
Great encounter with Gatorman
TammyK1054,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Totally enjoyed my time with Glen a.k.a Gatorman. He captained our boat made a killer hot mocha and regained us with very interesting stories. He’s good people!
I learned so much!!!!!
TravelingforLove2018,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
So Captain Glenn is funny, super smart, amazingly informative, and his love for animals in absolutely incredible. I enjoyed listening to his every word! He told us some history, facts, and made us laugh. The experience was so fun, I learned so much and enjoyed every moment! Do yourself a favor and get on a boat with Captain Glenn Wilsey. You won't regret it.
Amazing Experience
Jon S,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Paddletail and our guides Ross and Aaron were amazing. On a cold Florida day they kept us warm and guided our small group to the perfect spot to see manatees and we were lucky enough to have a few swim directly under us. I would highly recommend!
Amazing once in a lifetime experience
J8257DBlukea,,Jan 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I loved the whole thing, it was so much better than expected. We saw just one manatee because it was very hot, but just seeing the one was amazing. The water was really warm and clear, despite that we got complimentary hot chocolate or coffee on the boat when we got out. Our guide, Reggie, was lovely, she was very funny and made sure we were always safe while getting some great videos of the manatee.
A First-Class Manatee Experience!
michaeltW7585JY,,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Our 3-hour semi-private swim with Capt. Glenn and John S. was incredible. They were extremely knowledgeable and emphasized a respectful, hands-off approach with the manatees, which we loved. John was great with the kids and made sure all guests on the boat had a good time. We saw plenty of manatees and felt completely safe. The on-boat refreshments(ere a nice touch (Hot Chocolate and Coffee), and the hot showers on the boat (!!!) were a total lifesaver for warming up! Professional, ethical, and highly recommend the semi private or a more personal experience.
Best tour!
Rosalie M,,Dec 31, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Michele and Steve were so great and knew so much about the manatees and area. We had such a great time with them!!!
Best Christmas present for my family I have ever purchased
E7735ZAterrih,,Dec 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This was hands-down the best family experience we’ve had. We booked the semi-private tour for our family of four, which allowed for fantastic interaction with the captain and guide. Mark and Danni were an exceptional team and truly elevated the entire experience—so much so that even our 13-year-old commented on how great they were. We saw an incredible number of manatees, and Danni did an outstanding job capturing the experience through photos and videos. The photo package was absolutely worth it. We will definitely be returning to Paddletail Waterfront Adventures.