Viator Rating : 5 (748 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.0/10 (Verified Excellent)
Crystal River
Swim with Gentle Giants: An Intimate Manatee Encounter
180
Overview
Small group Manatee Tour offers an extended swim with manatees in Crystal River. With only six people per tour, expect a personal experience. All gear is included: wetsuits, masks, and towels. Enjoy hot chocolate, coffee, and heated facilities. It’s a unique nature adventure! 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Logistics (8 - 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
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Upsell Risk (6 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Highlights
Extended Swim Time: Enjoy even longer in-water time with the gentle manatees, creating a more immersive experience.
Personalized Small Group: With a maximum of 6 people, receive individual attention and a more intimate wildlife encounter.
All-Inclusive Comfort: Full 5mm wetsuits, towel service, hot drinks, and heated changing facilities ensure a comfortable experience.
Expert Guidance: Benefit from a US Coast Guard-certified captain and professionally insured in-water guide for a safe and informative tour.
Sentiment Analysis
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience.
-
Small group sizes allow for personalized attention.
-
Comfortable and warm gear provided.
-
Convenient amenities like hot beverages and showers are appreciated.
Additional costs for photos/videos.
-
Gratuities are not included.
Review Summary
People find this small group manatee tour to be an exceptional and memorable wildlife experience. Travelers consistently praise the professional and knowledgeable guides and captains who prioritize both safety and manatee welfare, with many noting the intimate group size allows for genuine close encounters with manatees including calves. The included amenities like hot chocolate, wetsuits, and heated facilities enhance comfort, and visitors appreciate the personalized attention and underwater photography services. While the experience is highly rated, some travelers emphasize that manatee sightings depend on daily conditions and wildlife unpredictability, though guides typically work together to maximize viewing opportunities.
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
$600
Exclusive Manatee Encounter: Private Swim Adventure in Crystal River
5.0
(323 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
Private Manatee Swim offers an intimate encounter with gentle giants in Crystal River. This tour, for up to six, includes gear, wetsuits, and onboard amenities. Enjoy personalized attention from a divemaster/photographer. A unique and memorable experience exploring Florida's natural beauty, suitable for all skill levels.
Orlando
$89
Everglades Airboat Tour: 90-Minute Safari Near Orlando!
4.8
(1211 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Experience the thrill of the 90-minute Everglades Airboat Tour near Orlando, Florida! This isn't just a boat ride; it's an exciting safari through the heart of Florida's natural wonderland. A smaller airboat (6-12 passengers) ensures a more intimate experience, free from crowds and long lines.
Glide across the marsh with a knowledgeable captain as a guide, venturing into the realm of the American alligator and discovering the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. Key stops include the Gator Nesting Areas, where visitors can safely observe alligators in their natural habitat. Expect to see Miss Suzie, a local momma gator, and her babies!
This tour includes live commentary, life jackets for safety, and a local driver-guide to enrich the adventure. Drinks and snacks are not included.
St Petersburg
$44.95
Shell Key Shelling Cruise from John's Pass
4.9
(348 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
The Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass, offered by Hubbard's Marina, promises a delightful adventure for shell enthusiasts and nature lovers. This trip includes about an hour of exploring and shelling on Shell Key Preserve, a pristine barrier island known for its abundant seashells and diverse wildlife. The journey to and from the island is just as enchanting, with a relaxing cruise through the calm, protected bay waters aboard the HUB Cat 49. This safe and fun trip is perfect for families and individuals alike.
During the cruise, passengers can expect to witness breathtaking scenery and potentially spot dolphins, seabirds, manatees, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. The cruise often takes a scenic route along the beautiful Gulf beaches on the way back to John's Pass, weather permitting. If the waters are a bit rough, the return trip will also be through the sheltered bay, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride for everyone. Be sure to experience John's Pass Village & Boardwalk, and Madeira Beach where the trip will be located.
This three-hour excursion provides a memorable experience filled with shelling, wildlife viewing, and scenic cruising. It's a perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon exploring the natural beauty of the Florida Gulf Coast. Hubbard's Marina is known for eco-friendly and family-friendly tours, so there is a little something for everyone.
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.
Nearby Events
Benchmark International Arena
Sep 25
8:00 PMGabriel Iglesias 1976 Tour Tampa Tickets
Gabriel Iglesias: The 1976 Tour brings the renowned comedian to Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, FL, for an evening of side-splitting humor. Iglesias, celebrated for his storytelling style and hilarious voices mimicking everyday life, delivers fresh material inspired by his 1976 birth year, blending nostalgia with contemporary laughs that have fans worldwide hooked.
Gabriel Iglesias captivates with relatable stories from his Mexican-American roots, standout Netflix specials like Mr. Iglesias and Stadium Fluffy, and sold-out global tours. Benchmark International Arena, a premier multipurpose venue in downtown Tampa, hosts top comedy alongside hockey and concerts.
Vanguard - Orlando
Aug 22
9:00 PMBook Tickets: Sasha Live at Vanguard - Orlando
Sasha (18 and Over) at Vanguard - Orlando in Orlando, FL, US features the renowned artist Sasha performing his acclaimed REFRACTED:LIVE show, which blends live vocals, strings, and guest musicians to create an immersive musical experience. Sasha is currently on tour, bringing his electrifying performances across multiple cities, with his most recent concert in Ciudad Juárez and upcoming shows in Atlanta, captivating fans with his unique style and energy.
As a celebrated figure in the electronic and live music scene, Sasha's work includes standout material from his Scene Delete album and other seminal tracks that define his artistic legacy. Vanguard - Orlando, located at 578 N. Orange Ave, is a premier venue known for hosting cutting-edge performances and providing an intimate setting for music enthusiasts to connect with top-tier artists.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Sep 26
Florida Gators vs Ole Miss Rebels: Tickets at The Swamp
Florida Gators Football vs. Ole Miss Rebels Football at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium ignites one of the SEC's fiercest rivalries, drawing passionate fans to Gainesville for high-stakes college football action. The Gators, led by dynamic playmakers and a storied program with multiple national titles, face off against the Rebels' explosive offense in a game that promises big plays, intense defense, and crowd-roaring moments typical of SEC showdowns.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, known as 'The Swamp,' amplifies the chaos with its deafening atmosphere where opponents fear to tread, hosting over 88,000 roaring Gator fans. This matchup underscores the Gators' legacy of resilience and the Rebels' gritty competitiveness in the ever-evolving SEC landscape.
Florida Horse Park
Aug 29
2:30 PMRock The Country Ocala: Blake Shelton, Ludacris Live
Rock The Country returns to Ocala, Florida, bringing together an eclectic mix of country and rock artists including Blake Shelton, Ludacris, Mark Chesnutt, and more for a two-day festival celebration. The traveling festival brings big-name performances to small towns across the U.S., creating an intimate yet energetic atmosphere where fans experience live music from some of country and rock's biggest stars. Blake Shelton, known for his chart-topping country hits and television presence on The Voice, headlines alongside hip-hop artist Ludacris, creating a unique cross-genre experience. The festival takes place at Florida Horse Park, a premier equestrian venue in Ocala that transforms into a music festival grounds complete with camping, food vendors, and onsite entertainment.
Raymond James Stadium
July 25
7:30 PMWrexham AFC vs Leeds United Tampa Tickets
Wrexham AFC vs. Leeds United ignites Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL, as these British soccer powerhouses clash in a high-stakes friendly match of TEG Sport's 2026 Summer Soccer Series. Wrexham AFC, propelled by Hollywood fame from Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, faces off against storied Leeds United, known for their passionate fanbase and EFL Championship prowess.
Wrexham AFC's meteoric rise from non-league to global sensation captivates audiences, while Leeds United brings championship pedigree and fervent support. Raymond James Stadium, home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, offers a vibrant atmosphere with its pirate ship centerpiece.
Kia Center
Jan 21
7:00 PMBarry Manilow's Final Orlando Concert | Jan 2026
MANILOW: The Last Orlando Concert brings music icon Barry Manilow to Kia Center for his final performance in the city, as part of his farewell "The Last Concerts Tour." At 81 years old, this legendary singer-songwriter is closing a career spanning over five decades with an unforgettable evening of his most celebrated hits. Fans will experience the artistry behind chart-topping classics like "Mandy," "Copacabana," and "Can't Smile Without You," along with selections from his recent album Dream Duets, which features duets with some of music's greatest voices—both living and legendary.
Barry Manilow stands as one of the most successful adult contemporary artists of all time, with 85 million records sold worldwide and 28 platinum records to his name. His theatrical style and timeless ballads have defined pop music for generations, earning him countless accolades and a devoted global fanbase. The Kia Center, one of Orlando's premier entertainment venues, provides the perfect setting for this historic farewell performance, ensuring an intimate yet grand experience for devoted fans and newcomers alike.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Orlando
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Orlando From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Private Drivers & Sports in Orlando. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Orlando Activities