Viator Rating : 5 (1323 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.7/10 (Verified Excellent)
Crystal River
Manatee Snorkeling Tour: Swim with Gentle Giants!
180
Overview
Guided Small Group Manatee Snorkeling Tour with In-Water Photographer, takes place in Crystal River, Florida. This unforgettable adventure allows guests to get up close and personal with gentle West Indian manatees in their natural habitat.
Led by a U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain who also acts as an in-water guide, this small group tour (limited to six guests) ensures a personal and memorable experience in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Participants will learn about the manatees, their ecosystem, and how to interact with them respectfully. The Captain swims along, ensuring guest safety and capturing high-definition photos and videos that are available for purchase after the tour.
The tour includes all necessary snorkeling equipment, such as a mask, snorkel, and wetsuit, as well as complimentary coffee or hot cocoa to keep guests warm and comfortable. This experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with Florida's amazing wildlife. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (8 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
Highlights
Swim with Manatees: Get close to gentle manatees in their natural home.
Small Group Tour: Enjoy a more personal experience with a small group of six or fewer.
In-Water Photographer: The captain takes photos and videos of your tour.
Gear Included: Wetsuit, mask, and snorkel are all provided.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers love how close they get to the manatees.
-
They enjoy the small group size, making the experience more personal.
-
Many appreciate that the captain takes photos and videos during the tour.
-
Guests find the provided wetsuits and hot drinks to be a nice touch.
Some customers mention additional costs for photos.
-
A few wish for more time in the water with the manatees.
The Journey
Dive Shop
The starting point of the tour where guests are fitted for wetsuits and receive essential briefing before embarking on the snorkeling adventure.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
A protected area and natural habitat of the West Indian Manatee, offering a unique opportunity to snorkel and observe these gentle creatures in their environment.
Swim Areas
Designated spots within the Crystal River where manatees are frequently sighted, allowing for up-close and personal encounters while snorkeling.
Boat
Transport used to reach manatee habitats, providing a short safety briefing and educational information about the area, enhancing the snorkeling experience.
Know Before You Go
This guided manatee snorkeling tour includes a professional guide, wetsuits, use of snorkeling equipment, coffee, and hot cocoa. Gratuities and souvenir photos are not included but are available for purchase. Guests will meet at the dive shop to get fitted for wetsuits and watch a short video before heading out on the boat.
Hot Tip
Real reviews say be ready for an early start to increase your chances of seeing more manatees. Bring an underwater camera if you don't want to purchase the tour photos, and be sure to listen to the guide for the best experience.
Review Summary
People finds this tour to be a memorable and educational experience, praising the small group size, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to swim closely with manatees. Many highlight the professionalism of the staff and the quality of the underwater photos. Some mention that the water can be chilly, and a few note that sightings are not guaranteed, but overall, the tour is highly recommended for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
St Petersburg
$79
Shell Key Clear Kayak Tour: See Dolphins & More!
5.0
(5771 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Clear Kayak Tour of Shell Key Preserve and Tampa Bay Area lets visitors adventure through Shell Key Preserve in a 100% clear kayak! Guests can see crystal-clear water, lots of sea life, and the underwater world below. This is a kayaking adventure tour great for people who love nature and want to see wildlife.
The tour includes paddling along mangroves, enjoying white sand beaches and sandbars, and exploring a secluded beach. If the water is high, the guide will lead the group through a hidden mangrove tunnel in Shell Key Preserve near St. Pete Beach. Shell Key Preserve offers views of dolphins, manatees, pelicans, crabs, and more while enjoying the pretty mangroves and beaches. Look for manatees or pink Roseate Spoonbills in the summer. White Pelicans live on the sandbars in the winter. Dolphins swim in the clear water all year, and cormorants like to swim by the kayaks. There are chances to see wildlife, but it's not a sure thing.
This tour gives people a close look at nature and a fun time on the water. This clear kayak tour is an unforgettable way to see Shell Key Preserve's beauty. The tour includes kayaks, paddles, seats, dry bags, lifejackets, and whistles, but does not include tips or bottled water.
Crystal River
$74
Swim with Manatees: Crystal River Adventure & Photos!
5.0
(2280 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Manatee Swim Tour with In Water Photographer, located in Kings Bay, Crystal River, Florida, Citrus County, Florida, offers an unforgettable adventure to swim with gentle giants in their natural habitat. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and anyone seeking a unique and ethical wildlife encounter.
What to Expect: Guests will glide through the crystal-clear waters of Kings Bay, a natural warm-water refuge for manatees. With an experienced in-water guide and photographer, participants will have the opportunity to observe and interact with these amazing creatures up close. The adventure ensures a safe and respectful environment for both humans and manatees.
The tour includes the use of safe USCG Certified Boats, bottled water, wetsuit, float noodles, snorkel gear, and an in-water guide/photographer. Note that photos and videos are available for purchase after the tour. With Explorida's commitment to customer experience, this tour promises to be a highlight of any visit to Crystal River.
Clearwater
$37
Clearwater Beach: Little Toot Dolphin Adventure!
4.9
(5584 reviews)
Duration: 75
minutes
The Little Toot Dolphin Adventure at Clearwater Beach offers an exciting way to see dolphins in their natural habitat. This tour takes place aboard the Little Toot, a tug boat known for creating a wake that dolphins love to play in.
The tour provides a narrated sightseeing experience of Clearwater Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. Because the boat sits lower to the water, guests can enjoy closer dolphin sightings. Passengers are welcome to move around the boat freely, with options for seating in the sun or shade.
This experience offers a unique opportunity to witness dolphins playing in the wake of the Little Toot. It includes a guided tour of the harbor and gulf, making it a memorable adventure for all ages.
Crystal River
$89.95
Dive into Wonder: Small Group Manatee Swim Tour in Crystal River!
5.0
(808 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Experience a Small Group Manatee Swim Tour in Crystal River with a knowledgeable in-water guide. Enjoy a family-friendly, intimate excursion limited to 6 people. Observe and swim alongside gentle manatees in their natural habitat. All gear provided for an unforgettable adventure. Involves Animals, Swimming, On the Water, Snorkeling, Excellent Quality
Tampa
$94
Conquer Tampa Bay: Thrilling Zip Line Adventure Awaits!
5.0
(769 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Zip Line Adventure over Tampa Bay offers 2 hours of excitement at Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Preserve. Experience 5 zip lines (400-650 ft), a suspension bridge, high ropes course, and auto belay jump. All gear is provided, making it accessible for various skill levels. Purchase photos to capture the memory!
St Petersburg
$80.25
St. Pete Sunset & Skyway Light Show Boat Cruise
4.9
(1831 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Island Sunset and Skyway Light Show - 3hr Boat Cruise in St. Pete offers an unforgettable evening on the water. This scenic boat tour, perfect for families and sightseers, explores the beautiful St. Pete Waterfront Estates, Gulf Port, and Pinellas Bayway Bridge.
What to Expect: The adventure begins with a relaxing cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway and Shell Key Preserve, known for dolphin sightings. The boat will stop at Sand Dollar Island (Outback Key), for shelling and sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico. As night falls, experience the Skyway Bridge's spectacular $15 million light show.
The cruise includes access to an on-board bar and restroom. Outside alcohol and coolers are not permitted. This catamaran cruise provides a unique perspective of St. Pete's beauty.
Nearby Events
Plaza Live - Orlando
Apr 16
8:00 PMCalum Scott Live at Plaza Live - Orlando Tickets
Calum Scott returns to the stage at Plaza Live in Orlando, offering fans a soulful evening of emotive pop music. Known for his breakout hit "Dancing on My Own" and powerful ballads like "You Are the Reason," Scott continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his heartfelt performances and recent collaborations such as his 2023 single "Whistle".
Emerging from his Britain's Got Talent success in 2015, Calum Scott has evolved into a globally recognized singer-songwriter with platinum hits and a devoted fanbase. Plaza Live, Orlando's premier intimate concert venue, is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent acoustics, making it the perfect setting to experience Scott's compelling voice and authentic storytelling live.
Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Event Center
Mar 22
8:00 PMMartin Lawrence Live at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Tickets
Martin Lawrence takes the stage for the "Y'all Still Know What It Is!" Tour at the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Event Center, promising an unforgettable comedy experience. Known for his sharp wit and iconic roles in films like Bad Boys and his hit TV show Martin, Lawrence delivers fresh, hilarious stand-up material that resonates with longtime fans and new audiences alike.
With a career spanning decades, Martin Lawrence remains a trailblazer in comedy, blending storytelling and dynamic stage presence. The Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Event Center enhances the live experience with its modern facilities and vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal venue for this highly anticipated tour.
Capitol Theatre
Apr 02
8:00 PMCountess Luann LU NIVERSE at Capitol Theatre
Countess Luann de Lesseps presents LU NIVERSE at the Nancy & David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre in Clearwater, FL, delivering her signature cabaret-style variety show filled with glamour, music, and Real Housewives flair. Known for her hit singles like 'Money Can't Buy You Class' and 'Feelin' Jovani,' the cabaret queen brings her high-energy performances and witty banter to this intimate theater setting, promising an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Countess Luann captivates audiences with her bold stage presence and chart-topping tracks from her cabaret career, evolving from reality TV icon to a legitimate nightlife and music star. The historic Nancy & David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, built in 1921 and recently expanded with luxury loge boxes and a rooftop terrace, offers an elegant backdrop for her show[1][2][3].
Benchmark International Arena
Mar 27
8:00 PMKatt Williams: The Golden Age Tour in Tampa
Katt Williams: The Golden Age Tour arrives at the Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, offering an electrifying night of comedy and sharp wit. Known for his distinctive voice and fearless social commentary, Katt Williams continues to captivate audiences with his latest tour, blending new material with fan favorites in an intimate yet high-energy setting.
This comedy event highlights Williams' enduring place as one of the most influential stand-up comedians of his generation. Benchmark International Arena, a premier entertainment venue downtown Tampa, is renowned for hosting a diverse array of events, making it the perfect stage for this unforgettable comedy experience.
George Steinbrenner Field
Mar 19
1:05 PMNew York Yankees v. Baltimore Orioles
Vinoy Park
Apr 11
12:30 PMTampa Bay Blues Fest Saturday: Kenny Wayne Shepherd Live
Tampa Bay Blues Festival at Vinoy Park showcases Saturday headliner Kenny Wayne Shepherd alongside Jimmie Vaughan, Charlie Musselwhite, and Nikki Hill in a powerhouse lineup of blues mastery.[2][3] This 30th anniversary event delivers electrifying performances from Grammy-nominated Shepherd, known for hits like 'Blue on Black,' Texas blues legend Jimmie Vaughan, harmonica icon Charlie Musselwhite, and soulful Nikki Hill, all amid a day of roots music from noon to 10 p.m.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd's high-energy guitar riffs and Jimmie Vaughan's Stevie Ray Vaughan-inspired grooves join Charlie Musselwhite's raw Delta blues and Nikki Hill's dynamic vocals to celebrate American blues heritage, drawing fans worldwide to this premier festival.[1][5][6] Vinoy Park offers acres of lush grass, palm trees, and stunning Tampa Bay waterfront views, recently re-landscaped for an idyllic live music paradise.[5]
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Tampa
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Tampa From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Private Drivers & Sports in Tampa. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Tampa Activities