Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Crystal River is home to beautiful fresh water springs, a large variety of wildlife, and or course our most famous residents - West Indian Manatees. During the Summer months, the Bay holds approximately 75 to 80 resident manatees.
Each winter between 700 and 1000 manatees migrate here seeking out our three first magnitude spring systems, each with a constant temperature of 72° to 74° F (23° C). Even in the warm summer months, Crystal River has a local population of 70-100 manatees that remain here year round. Due to efforts by many local, state and federal entities, our manatee population is thriving. We feel that an in-water swim experience is an important part of this education and conservation effort. Our team of highly trained in-water guides ensure your experience with this cherished and threatened species is handled with the utmost care and respect by encouraging passive observation.
With only 6 passengers per boat you are guaranteed a special small group interaction.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please Note: Children 6 and under must be under adult passenger supervision at all times. Children six (6) and under must wear a life vest at all times when the boat is in motion.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Bottled water
Heated Enclosed Pontoon Boat
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Coffee and/or Tea
Wetsuit
Towels, sunblock, sunglasses and hats are not included but highly encouraged.
Gratuity for Captain and Crew (15% - 20% Standard)
Crystal River is the manatee capital of the world, and we are fortunate enough to be the only place where you can have the unique experience of swimming with these gentle giants in their own natural habitat! Once you arrive at Salty Siren Tours the adventure begins! After checking in, you will be fitted with one of our high quality wetsuits. (All required gear is included in the cost of your charter.) From there, you'll meet your in-water guide and photographer who will discuss your upcoming manatee interaction and answer any questions you may have. After we explain passive observation and how to properly interact in the water with our precious manatees, we will transport you to our departure location in our comfortable 15 passenger van. From there you will board your immaculately clean tour vessel for the experience of a lifetime! During your trip your guide will escort you to passively observe and these majestic mammals. We also take underwater photos of your trip (which can be purchased for an additional fee) so you can share the manatee love! CANCELLATION POLICY: 50% Refund if cancelled within 7 days of travel, non-refundable if cancelled within 72 hours of travel.
504 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Jonah V,
Jul 2, 2025
- Viator
If you’re worried about sea sickness, don’t be. The boat ride was very smooth and easy to ride. Definitely a fun experience.
Angie M,
Jun 22, 2025
- Viator
We had a wonderful experience with Kim and the Salty Siren staff. Difficult day to find the manatees but they made sure we had an enjoyable experience once we located some mommas and babies. Kim is so knowledgeable and patiently guided us through the encounters with these gentle creatures. Thank you to Kim, Captain and Aubrey for our tour and the warm hospitality.
Michelle H,
Jun 18, 2025
- Viator
What an amazing experience!! Capt Ed and Robin were the perfect guides for our manatee swim in Kings Bay with a stop at sister springs for a swim in the clear waters. Capt Ed guided us through the bay to see several manatees. 2 sets of mammas with calves & the local favorite, Triangle the manatee snorkled with us for awhile. Robin was full of information on manatees and gave clear helpful instruction and guidance, as we never snorkeled before. We left with a set of incredible photos and video of our adventure!
Linda H,
Jun 10, 2025
- Viator
Wow! What a great experience! Robin was our guide for the day and was very knowledgeable and helpful. We had a smaller child in our tour group and robin took extra time to help her get comfortable with the manatee so that she had a great experience. Highly recommend this tour group!
Sandy W,
Jun 9, 2025
- Viator
It was a great experience. I am on a round trip with my daughter for 17 years and I was particularly looking forward to this tour. The wetsuits are also available in different sizes 3XL. Our guide Robin was very nice and explained everything to us great our captain was also very nice. First we drove around a bit to find the manatees and when we spotted them, we swam with the manatees for almost an hour and 75 photos were taken and a small video. This tour is highly recommended.
Operated by Salt River, LLC