Viator Rating : 5 (2280 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.6/10 (Verified Excellent)
Crystal River
Swim with Manatees: Crystal River Adventure & Photos!
180
Overview
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. 
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 (8 - 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 Gentle Giants: Get up close and personal with manatees in their natural habitat.
Expert Guidance: Learn about manatee behavior and conservation from a knowledgeable in-water guide.
Professional Photos: Capture your amazing experience with the help of an in-water photographer.
All Gear Included: Wetsuit, snorkel gear, and float noodles are provided for your comfort and safety.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing many manatees up close.
-
They appreciated the guide's knowledge and enthusiasm.
-
The tour was a great experience for all ages.
-
Many mention that the photo package is worth buying
Some found the water a bit chilly, even with wetsuits.
-
A few wished for more time in the water.
The Journey
Kings Bay, Crystal River, Florida
Discover the enchanting Kings Bay in Crystal River, Florida, a haven for the beloved Florida manatee. Glide through the clear waters aboard a US Coast Guard-certified vessel, led by experienced captains who know the secrets of this aquatic refuge. With expert in-water guides by your side, safely swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Capture these precious moments with professional photographers, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime. Kings Bay offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the magic of manatees up close, making it an unmissable destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Citrus County, Florida
Immerse yourself in the world-famous 'Manatee Capital of the World'—Citrus County, Florida. Here, you have the extraordinary privilege of legally swimming with manatees in their natural environment, a truly unique experience found nowhere else on the planet. Let Explorida guide you through this unforgettable adventure, as you witness the serene beauty of these magnificent creatures and learn about their fragile ecosystem. Citrus County offers a chance to create lasting memories and support the conservation of these gentle giants, making it a top destination for anyone seeking an authentic and impactful wildlife encounter.
Know Before You Go
This Manatee Swim Tour includes everything needed for a comfortable and memorable experience: safe USCG Certified Boats, bottled water, wetsuit, float noodles, snorkel gear, and the guidance of an experienced in-water guide/photographer. Please note that photos and videos from your tour are available for purchase separately. Food and drinks are not included. Meet at the Explorida Adventure Center to begin the tour.
Hot Tip
Many people suggest buying the photo package to remember the experience forever! Also, even though wetsuits are provided, consider wearing layers underneath to stay extra warm in the water.
Review Summary
People find this manatee swim tour to be an exceptional bucket-list experience, with 97% of reviewers giving it a 4-star rating or higher and the tour being voted Trip Advisor's 2022 Top Ten Bucket List Experience in the World.[8] Travelers consistently praise the spacious, well-maintained facility with climate-controlled amenities, professional and knowledgeable guides, US Coast Guard-certified vessels, and the personalized in-water photography service that captures memories of swimming with these gentle giants.[1][2][5] The main considerations travelers mention are that this is a wildlife encounter with conditions that vary daily, there is a three-person minimum per boat, and the experience is not suitable for those with mobility challenges.[6][7]
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.
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.
Orlando
$46.85
Orlando Escape Game: 60-Minute Adventure on I-Drive!
5.0
(713 reviews)
Duration: 75
minutes
The Escape Game Orlando: Epic 60-Minute Adventures on I-Drive is an exciting adventure for families and thrill-seekers. Located on International Drive, near ICON Park and many restaurants like Yard House and Chuy's, it’s the perfect spot for fun in Orlando.
In this experience, teams work together to find clues, solve puzzles, and complete a mission within 60 minutes. Communication, teamwork, and a sense of adventure are key to escaping! A game guide will assist as needed, ensuring an immersive experience. Choose from seven unique games: discover underwater secrets in The Depths, hunt for gold in Gold Rush, or attempt a daring Prison Break. There's also Special Ops: Mysterious Market, The Heist, Playground, and Mission: Mars. Each game is designed to challenge and entertain.
Admission includes entry to one adventure. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. The Escape Game Orlando offers a premium escape room experience, perfect for small groups seeking a memorable and engaging activity.
Nearby Events
Raymond James Stadium
Oct 09
7:00 PMKarol G TropiTour Tampa Tickets
KAROL G - VIAJANDO POR EL MUNDO TROPITOUR lights up Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL, with her signature reggaeton and Latin trap beats that have captivated millions worldwide. As the Colombian superstar behind chart-topping albums like 'Mañana Será Bonito' and hits such as 'TQG' with Shakira, Karol G delivers high-energy performances blending fierce lyrics, infectious rhythms, and stunning visuals that define her global phenomenon status.
Raymond James Stadium, home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, offers a massive open-air setting perfect for epic concerts with excellent sightlines and vibrant atmosphere.
Raymond James Stadium
Dec 11
7:00 PMUsher & Chris Brown Live in Tampa | Raymond James Stadium
The R&B Tour featuring Usher Raymond and Chris Brown comes to Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, bringing two of R&B's most influential artists to the stage together. This rare collaboration showcases the chart-topping hits and electrifying performances that have defined both artists' careers, promising an unforgettable night of rhythm and soul for fans of contemporary R&B music.
Usher Raymond stands as a global icon with numerous Grammy Awards and multi-platinum albums, while Chris Brown brings his dynamic energy and innovative artistry to the stage. Together, they represent the evolution and vitality of modern R&B. Raymond James Stadium, located in Tampa, is one of the premier venues on the East Coast, known for hosting world-class entertainment and major sporting events.
Kia Center
Oct 10
8:00 PMCamilo Live in Orlando: Latin Pop at Kia Center
Camilo takes the stage at Kia Center in Orlando, bringing his signature Latin pop sound to Florida audiences. The six-time Latin Grammy winner and three-time Grammy-nominated Colombian singer-songwriter performs his chart-topping hits, including "Tutu" (certified 10X platinum), "Vida de Rico," and collaborations that have dominated streaming platforms with over 2.3 billion combined streams. Known for his romantic lyrics and distinctive treble voice, Camilo's live performances showcase the artistry that made his 2019 debut album "Por Primera Vez" debut at number one on Billboard's Latin Pop Album Chart and achieve 4X platinum certification in the US.
Camilo's evolution as one of Latin pop's greatest contemporary champions continues with his recent album "De Adentro Pa Afuera," which garnered over 1.6 billion streams and peaked at number six on Billboard's Latin Pop Albums Chart. His ability to craft compelling pop anthems while collaborating with artists like Shakira, Pedro Capó, and Karol G demonstrates his influence across the industry. Kia Center, Orlando's premier venue for world-class entertainment, provides the perfect setting for this unforgettable night of Latin music.
Kia Center
Nov 14
7:30 PMDoja Cat Tour Ma Vie World Tour Tickets Orlando
Doja Cat's Tour Ma Vie World Tour comes to the Kia Center in Orlando, promising a vibrant live experience featuring the global Grammy-winning artist’s newest hits from her fifth studio album, Vie. Known for her dynamic stage presence and eclectic blend of hip-hop and pop, Doja Cat continues to evolve as a powerhouse in contemporary music.
Tour Ma Vie is Doja Cat’s largest tour to date, spanning multiple continents and showcasing tracks that highlight her unique blending of French rap influences and hip-hop rhythms. The Kia Center, a premier Orlando venue acclaimed for its modern amenities and energetic concert atmosphere, provides an ideal setting for fans to immerse themselves in this highly anticipated event.
Ruth Eckerd Hall
Jan 29
8:00 PMMichael Bolton Live at Ruth Eckerd Hall Tickets
Michael Bolton returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, FL, delivering a timeless evening of pop and adult contemporary music. Known for his powerful vocals and Grammy-winning hits like "When a Man Loves a Woman," Bolton continues to captivate audiences with his symphonic and soulful performances.
With a career spanning over five decades and more than 65 million albums sold, Michael Bolton is a celebrated singer-songwriter and humanitarian. Ruth Eckerd Hall, a premier Clearwater venue renowned for its excellent acoustics and intimate setting, provides the perfect backdrop for experiencing his enchanting show.
Acrisure Bounce House
Sep 19
7:00 PMUCF Knights Football vs Georgia State - Family Weekend
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