Viator Rating : 5 (549 reviews)
Crystal River
Manatee Snorkel Tour: Swim with Gentle Giants!
180
Overview
Small Group Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Guide and Photographer in Crystal River lets people swim with manatees. Crystal River is called the manatee capital of the world. It's the only place where people can swim with these animals in their home.
This adventure starts at Salty Siren Tours. People will get fitted with wetsuits. Then, they will meet the guide and photographer. The guide will talk about how to swim with manatees safely. They will teach how to watch them without bothering them. After, everyone will ride in a van to the boat. The boat will take them to see the manatees. The guide will help people watch these big, gentle animals. Someone will take pictures underwater of the trip. People can buy these pictures to share later.
The tour includes a warm boat ride and snorkeling gear. It also has drinks like coffee and tea to keep everyone warm. This tour helps teach people about manatees and how to protect them. The tour guides make sure everyone is safe and respects the manatees. 
Highlights
Swim with Manatees: Get to swim with gentle manatees in their natural home.
Small Group Tour: Enjoy a special experience with only 6 people on the boat.
Expert In-Water Guide: Learn how to safely watch and respect the manatees.
Warm Boat & Gear: Stay warm with a heated boat, wetsuit, and drinks.
Sentiment Analysis
Guests loved seeing lots of manatees up close.
-
The guides were very helpful and taught everyone how to swim safely with the manatees.
-
Many said it was a magical and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
-
People liked having a photographer to capture the memories.
Some people felt rushed during the swim.
-
A few guests wished they had more time in the water with the manatees.
The Journey
Salty Siren Tours
The starting point of your manatee adventure, where you check in, get fitted with wetsuits, and receive a briefing from your in-water guide and photographer.
Crystal River
Known as the manatee capital of the world, Crystal River offers the unique opportunity to swim with manatees in their natural habitat. Its warm, spring-fed waters attract a large population of manatees, especially during the winter months.
Departure Location
The location where you will board the tour vessel after being transported from Salty Siren Tours. This marks the beginning of your on-the-water experience to observe and interact with manatees.
Manatee Habitat
The natural environment where you'll passively observe and interact with manatees under the guidance of your in-water guide. This offers a chance to witness these gentle giants in their own habitat.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes bottled water, a heated and enclosed pontoon boat, use of snorkeling equipment, coffee and tea, and a wetsuit. Towels, sunblock, sunglasses, and hats are not included but are highly encouraged. Gratuity for the captain and crew (15% - 20% standard) is not included. Meeting point is at Salty Siren Tours.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers suggest bringing an underwater camera if you don't want to purchase the tour photos. Also, wearing a rash guard under the wetsuit can make it more comfortable.
Review Summary
People find this Small Group Manatee Snorkel Tour in Crystal River to be an exceptional, intimate wildlife experience with knowledgeable, friendly guides and high-quality in-water photography. The small group size is frequently praised for enabling meaningful encounters with manatees and respectful observation. Positive feedback highlights the thorough safety briefings, well-maintained equipment, and informative education about manatee conservation. Some travelers note the importance of bringing personal items like towels and sun protection, as these are not provided. The main criticisms center around limited accessibility for those with mobility issues and the necessity to book early to secure spots during peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Crystal River
$79
Manatee Snorkeling Tour: Swim with Gentle Giants!
5.0
(1317 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
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.
Crystal River
$76
Manatee Swim Tour: 3-Hour Crystal River Adventure
4.9
(2712 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Most Popular 3hr Manatee Swim Tour + In-Water Guide! Located in Crystal River, Florida, this tour offers a unique opportunity to swim and snorkel with gentle manatees in their natural habitat. Since 1995, Fun 2 Dive has been a leading guide, introducing countless visitors to this special experience.
Guests will enjoy a 3-hour adventure where all necessary gear is provided, including a mask, snorkel, and wetsuit. The wetsuit helps with buoyancy, and a foam swim noodle offers extra flotation. The focus is on calmly floating with the manatees, allowing them to feel comfortable and unthreatened. An in-water guide accompanies the group, taking photographs throughout the tour, which are available for purchase afterward.
Fun 2 Dive operates from a full-service tour center with a unique manatee gift shop, offering an unmatched selection of manatee-themed merchandise. With U.S. Coast Guard licensed Master Captains and drug-tested staff, visitors can be assured of a safe and unforgettable 5-star experience. This tour commits to providing an up close animal encounter.
Crystal River
$76.07
Crystal River: 'OG' Manatee Snorkel Tour & Photos!
4.9
(2475 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
The 'OG' Manatee Snorkel Tour in Crystal River offers an unforgettable adventure to swim with gentle giants in their natural habitat. This tour, run by the most experienced center in Crystal River and Homosassa since 2004, is perfect for nature lovers and families seeking a unique wildlife encounter.
The adventure begins at River Ventures Tour Center, where guests learn about manatee behavior and encounter rules from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. After getting fitted for wetsuits, participants board a comfortable coast guard boat and cruise Kings Bay, Three Sisters Springs, and other prime manatee spotting locations. An in-water guide and photographer will lead the snorkel, capturing stunning HD photos and videos of the experience.
This experience offers an up-close look at Florida's beloved manatees in Crystal River and provides memories that will last a lifetime.
Crystal River
$74.99
Manatee Swim Tour: Crystal River's Gentle Giants
5.0
(439 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
3 Hours Manatee Swim Tour in Florida: Experience the magic of swimming with gentle manatees in their natural habitat. This tour takes place in the Kings Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for these amazing creatures. With a focus on safety and education, it's a unique adventure for animal lovers of all ages.
Led by a USCG Captain and a licensed dive professional, the tour ensures both guest safety and manatee well-being. Participants will learn about manatee behavior and facts, enhancing their appreciation for these incredible animals. The tour departs from private docks with heated changing facilities and hot showers for added comfort.
This experience includes a full wetsuit, mask, and snorkel, allowing for a comfortable and immersive encounter. Enjoy complimentary coffee and tea to warm up after your swim. Discover the wonders of Crystal River and create unforgettable memories with Florida's gentle giants.
Crystal River
$74.99
Manatee Swim Tour: Crystal River Adventure!
5.0
(370 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Semi-Private Manatee Swim Tour With In-Water Guide/Photographer in Crystal River offers an unforgettable encounter with gentle giants. This experience provides a chance to swim and snorkel alongside manatees in their natural habitat, the beautiful Crystal River springs. With Crystal River Manatee Adventures, guests will learn fun facts about manatees while observing them up close.
Escorted to and from the dock on heated boats, the tours ensure comfort even on cooler days. The tour limits the group size to six guests, providing a personalized and intimate experience. Wetsuits, snorkels, and masks are provided for the in-water excursion, making it easy for everyone to participate.
This 3-hour adventure focuses on creating a memorable and educational experience for all. Crystal River Manatee Adventures aims to combine fun with nature, ensuring that every guest leaves with a newfound appreciation for these amazing creatures.
St Petersburg
$99
Soar Above Madeira Beach: Unforgettable Parasail Adventure!
5.0
(301 reviews)
Duration: 60
minutes
Parasail Flight at Madeira Beach offers a safe and thrilling experience with USCG licensed captains boasting 26+ years of combined experience. Enjoy breathtaking views and upgrade your adventure with GoPro or picture packages. With a perfect safety record and over 200,000 successful flights, prepare for an unforgettable journey above the Gulf Coast.
Nearby Events
Benchmark International Arena
Mar 05
7:00 PMDisney On Ice Mickey's Search Party Tampa Mar 8
Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party brings the magic of beloved Disney, Pixar, and animated characters to life on ice at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida. This fast-paced, family-friendly production follows an enchanting search for Tinker Bell through stunning worlds, featuring world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics, and unexpected stunts that captivate audiences of all ages.[1][3] The show immerses families in iconic Disney stories, from Moana's ocean adventure and Miguel's spirited journey through Coco's colorful spirit realm to Belle's enchanted castle and Elsa's icy magic, complemented by memorable moments from Aladdin, Toy Story, and The Little Mermaid.[4] Benchmark International Arena, a premier venue in Tampa, provides the perfect setting for this spectacular celebration of Disney entertainment, delivering nonstop music, mischief, and unforgettable memories.[2]
Kia Center
Jun 08
8:30 PMBuy ROSALÍA Tickets: LUX TOUR 2026 in Orlando
ROSALÍA brings her highly anticipated LUX TOUR 2026 to the Kia Center in Orlando, FL, delivering a vibrant live music experience that showcases her innovative blend of Latin pop, flamenco, and urban influences. As a global music sensation, ROSALÍA captivates audiences with her powerful voice and genre-defying style, making this concert a must-see for fans and newcomers alike.
Known as one of Orlando’s premier entertainment venues, the Kia Center offers cutting-edge technology and seating for up to 20,000 guests, hosting some of the biggest names in music and sport. The arena’s modern atmosphere complements ROSALÍA’s dynamic performance, ensuring an unforgettable night in the heart of downtown Orlando.
Benchmark International Arena
Jun 19
8:00 PMJosh Groban & Jennifer Hudson Tampa Tickets
Josh Groban with special guest Jennifer Hudson lights up Benchmark International Arena in a powerhouse pop and adult contemporary showcase from their 'Two Legendary Voices, One Unforgettable Evening' tour. This collaboration unites Groban's soaring tenor, known from hits like 'You Raise Me Up' and recent albums blending classical crossover with pop, alongside Hudson's Grammy-winning powerhouse vocals from 'Spotlight' and her iconic American Idol journey, promising an evening of emotional anthems and duets.[1][2]
Josh Groban, a multi-platinum artist with over 25 million albums sold worldwide, pairs perfectly with Jennifer Hudson, the EGOT winner celebrated for her soul-stirring performances in Dreamgirls and beyond. Benchmark International Arena, Tampa's premier entertainment hub, offers state-of-the-art acoustics for this vocal spectacle.[1][2]
Camping World Stadium
May 08
3:00 PMRolling Loud Orlando 2026 Tickets & Festival
Rolling Loud 2026 brings the world's largest hip-hop festival to Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, marking a historic shift from its longtime Miami home. This three-day celebration of hip-hop culture promises explosive performances, jaw-dropping stage production, and an unmissable atmosphere that has defined the festival since its 2015 debut. The move to Orlando represents a fresh chapter for the brand, with organizers emphasizing the city's emergence as one of the country's strongest festival markets and its superior infrastructure to support tens of thousands of traveling fans.
Rolling Loud has established itself as a proving ground for hip-hop's biggest breakout stars over the past decade, hosting legendary performances and discovering emerging talent. Camping World Stadium, built for scale and accessibility, provides the perfect venue for this flagship U.S. experience. With organizers promising exclusive events and experiences throughout the festival weekend, attendees can expect the same high-energy production and cultural significance that has made Rolling Loud a cornerstone of the hip-hop community.
Kia Center
Mar 21
7:00 PMOrlando Magic vs. Los Angeles Lakers at Kia Center
The Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers face off in a high-stakes NBA showdown at the Kia Center, bringing together two of the league’s most dynamic teams. Fans can expect fast-paced action, star power, and a vibrant atmosphere as these franchises battle for supremacy on the hardwood.
The Orlando Magic, led by rising stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, continue to build momentum as a young, exciting team. The Lakers, anchored by legends and a storied legacy, remain a fan favorite wherever they play. The Kia Center, known for its modern amenities and electric crowd energy, sets the perfect stage for this marquee matchup.
Florida Railroad Museum
Mar 14
12:00 PMDay Out With Thomas™ at Florida Railroad Museum
Day Out With Thomas™ brings the beloved Thomas & Friends characters to life at the Florida Railroad Museum. This family-friendly event offers kids the chance to meet Thomas the Tank Engine, participate in Thomas-themed activities, and enjoy a memorable train ride. It's an immersive experience that captures the magic of the Island of Sodor, promising excitement for young fans.
The Florida Railroad Museum, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Florida's rich railroad history. Visitors can explore vintage locomotives, railway cars, and exhibits. They also offers scenic train rides through the Florida countryside. The museum is committed to providing educational and entertaining experiences for all ages, making it a perfect venue for Day Out With Thomas™.
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