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.
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.
Bottled water
Heated Enclosed Pontoon Boat
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Wetsuit
Coffee and/or Tea
Towels, sunblock, sunglasses and hats are not included but highly encouraged.
Gratuity for Captain and Crew (15% - 20% Standard)
557 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
853cyndik,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We were searching online for places to swim with the manatees and came across Salty Sirens. We couldn’t have had a better experience. The small staff including the owner, captain, and especially Tyler, were the nicest people and they legitimately love manatees as much as we do. We will absolutely see them again next year! Thank you so much Salty Sirens! Doug and Cyndi K Marietta, GA
U3946VZjenniferl,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Is it possible to give 100 stars??? If so - definitely, without hesitation!! This is my 2nd experience with Salty Siren Tours and I didn’t think it was possible for me to love the entire crew more than I already did…but I sure do! Today was a chilly start - under 40° - but WOW what a trade to see so many beautiful manatees! Captain Randy was the host with the most for all, but particularly with my mother, who stayed in the boat rather than getting in the water. Our in water guide Tyler…I can’t say enough about him! He made sure we were being fully respectful to the manatees in their home while simultaneously ensuring we had the absolute best experience possible. He was constantly communicating with us - 10 of 10 without question. I love the smaller groups also…just another way Salty Siren keeps manatees and humans happy and safe. Captain Kim, Captain Ed, and Salty Siren Crew - you all have my heart. 🩵 Book the tour. You won’t regret it!!!





lbday2,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
This is a great locally owned company that takes you on a great tour. We saw so many manatees and had the best day. Our guide and captain were friendly and fun and we would recommend and do it again!



ReviewyGuy,,Jan 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great tour, leading us right to a group of friendly and darling manatees. Tyler was a terrific tour guide who also took fabulous photos and brief videos. Highly recommended as they give you background info & provide all your needed equipment.
C656RJmandyc,,Jan 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
I had an amazing day swimming with the manatees! Thank you to Sheroeswow.org and Salty Sirens for a dream come true!!
Mldubois,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We did a small group snorkeling and interacting with the manatees. It was passive observation and enabled us to get close. Perfect



L4199ZGscottm,,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Today we had a top notch tour with captain Kim and Captain Ed, Kim and I spend hours in the water at two locations around Crystal river. They knew exactly where to go and used visual and drone technology to spot and point out the manatees, we had multiple encounters along with fish and clear views of the bottom and sleeping manatees. My wife was on the boat with Captain Ed and she was able to see drone coverages and talk with captain Ed. I highly recommend this tour company, they are personable, knowledgeable and care about the manatees and their habitat.
amber f,,Jan 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
If you are looking to go swimming with the manatees, do it! This tour was absolutely amazing and a once in a life time experience. There were so many manatees, fish, and even a blue crab. Captain Ed and my guide, Tyler, were amazing, extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and took some amazing photos and videos. I really appreciated the entire experience and will never forget it.
Tracy C,,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
Exceptional experience!!! Highly recommend for a family - we all learned so much and had a great experience with the manatees!! Pictures were a nice bonus available for purchase at the end and very reasonable.

Robert M,,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
Top rate professionals, amazing experience, life long memories were made. This was a great experience for our kids and family, made possible by a family business. Highly recommend this to anyone considering a tour to swim with manatees in the Crystal River area.
Operated by Salt River, LLC