a
Jun 15, 2026
Our captain, Evan, and tour guide, Crystal-Lynn, were a terrific pair and were able to set us on several manatees during an off-season excursion. Truly a fantastic one-of-a-kind experience with some of the most majestic creatures on the planet.This is an experience that we highly recommend for everyone.
Dana M
Jul 8, 2026
So nice, informative, and fun, fun, fun! Kaya was our guide and Evan was our boat captain. We were able to swim with THREE manatees! The water was murky and they moved fast, but Kaya and Evan did such a great job getting us with those beautiful beasts. Plus, bonus swim in natural springs! What an excellent experience for everyone. Can’t wait to do this again!
Deborah Chambers
Jul 7, 2026
We had a great 1st time experince with Harry and Mandy. Could not have asked for better guides. They were very knowledgeable. I not only saw a manatees but a dolphin, and a alligator. Thank you for making are first visit rememberable.
Shanin Yates
Jul 5, 2026
We had Kaya and Jake on 6/13/26 and it was a great experience! The smaller groups make it easier to stay with everyone. They made sure each of us got a chance to see the manatees that we encountered.
Devin Vazzano
Jun 26, 2026
I purchased a semi-private snorkeling tour for myself and my brother that took place yesterday, 6/25/26 with our lovely tour guide Crystallynn who was so incredibly knowledgeable, kind, funny and answered all of my questions. Even though it was the off season, it was still so magical to be that close to manatees and see them hanging out in their natural environment as well as learn a bunch of stuff I didn’t know previously about them. It was truly such a beautiful experience.
Olga Daniel
Jun 22, 2026
This toyr was amazing, we had Crystallynn and Henry and they made sure we had an amazing experience, even though we came during off season. Tour comes with complementary photos, which allows to look back at your memories over time. Thank you!
Daniel L
Jun 21, 2026
This was a really neat and cool experience. We went in the off season but still were able to swim with three manatees. Its an amazing experience and I recommend this for anyone. It great to see them in the wild. They are amazing to see up close.
April H.
Jun 20, 2026
This was one of the highlights of our Florida trip! Kia and Jake made an amazing team. Kia was our in-water guide and Jake captained the boat, and both were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. We were fortunate enough to get up close and personal with Triangle the manatee, and Kia made sure everyone in our group had an opportunity for a face-to-face encounter. Along the way, we learned a lot about manatees, their habitat, and the importance of protecting these gentle giants. We also got to explore a beautiful natural spring tucked away in the back of the bay, which was an unexpected bonus and absolutely stunning. Kia took some fantastic underwater photos during the tour and had them sent to us before we even left, which was a wonderful touch and gave us great memories to take home. The small-group atmosphere made the experience feel personal and relaxed, and Kia and Jake worked seamlessly together to ensure everyone had a great time. If you're considering a manatee tour in Crystal River, this is the one to book!
Toots1973
Jun 19, 2026
This was one of the highlights of our Florida trip! Kia and Jake made an amazing team. Kia was our in-water guide and Jake captained the boat, and both were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. We were fortunate enough to get up close and personal with Triangle the manatee, and Kia made sure everyone in our group had an opportunity for a face-to-face encounter. Along the way, we learned a lot about manatees, their habitat, and the importance of protecting these gentle giants. We also got to explore a beautiful natural spring tucked away in the back of the bay, which was an unexpected bonus and absolutely stunning. Kia took some fantastic underwater photos during the tour and had them sent to us before we even left, which was a wonderful touch and gave us great memories to take home. The small-group atmosphere made the experience feel personal and relaxed, and Kia and Jake worked seamlessly together to ensure everyone had a great time. If you’re considering a manatee tour in Crystal River, this is the one to book!
kelsey f
Jun 16, 2026
I wanted to take my nieces and nephew to do a true florida adventure and this did not disappoint. It was the groups favorite part of the trip. I have been on Mantee tours previously, but Nature's Discovery will now be my 'go to' for all future manatee tours. Mandy and Captain Evan were fantastic. Good combo of light hearted joking, education and fun. It was a delight and I'm so grateful we got to experience this.
a
Jun 15, 2026
Our captain, Evan, and tour guide, Crystal-Lynn, were a terrific pair and were able to set us on several manatees during an off-season excursion. Truly a fantastic one-of-a-kind experience with some of the most majestic creatures on the planet.This is an experience that we highly recommend for everyone.
Dana M
Jul 8, 2026
So nice, informative, and fun, fun, fun! Kaya was our guide and Evan was our boat captain. We were able to swim with THREE manatees! The water was murky and they moved fast, but Kaya and Evan did such a great job getting us with those beautiful beasts. Plus, bonus swim in natural springs! What an excellent experience for everyone. Can’t wait to do this again!
Right here in the heart of Florida's Nature Coast, you can tick off a fun bucket list item! We offer you a unique opportunity while conserving the natural environment manatees love so much. Our eco-friendly tours provide visitors with a once-in-a-lifetime experience while helping them learn about how to protect the manatees and the beautiful Crystal River ecosystem.
Our Crystal River Manatee Swim excursion lets you get into the water and swim with manatees for an experience you won't soon forget. The waters here in King's Bay remain at a constant temperature of 72 degrees, so no matter what time of year you make your reservations, you'll be comfortable in the water.
Visiting Crystal River and taking our tours is a fantastic way to connect with nature and create lasting memories. You'll not only get to see these gentle giants up close, but you'll also learn about their habitat and the importance of protecting it. Whether you're a family looking for a fun adventure or a nature lover wanting to explore, our tours offer something special for everyone. Come join us for an unforgettable day on the water!
Our signature tour! Embark on a guided snorkeling adventure with Nature's Discovery small group tour with up to 6 passengers, where you and your family can swim alongside gentle manatees in their natural habitat. This year-round experience takes place in the spring-fed Kings Bay, offering an unforgettable encounter with these magnificent creatures. With limited group sizes, this tour ensure a personalized and intimate experience, allowing you to truly connect with the manatees.
Dive into the enchanting world of manatees with our Classic Manatee Snorkeling Adventure with a maximum of 12 passengers. Experience the thrill of swimming alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Our expert guides ensure a safe and memorable encounter, providing insights into the lives of these fascinating creatures. Join us for an unforgettable journey that combines adventure with education, all while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Book the boat for Private for your friends and family! This is the perfect adventure for seasoned snorkelers, novices, families with young kids, and people who may want or need extra assistance in the water. Our most intimate and private experience possible. Enjoy a fun and informative boat ride before swimming with manatees up-close and personal. This trip also has our best opportunity for great in-water photography, since your guide can dedicate all of his/her time and attention on your group! Up to 6 Passenger Private Swim Tours depart at 7am, 10am, 1pm, and 4pm Up to 12 and 20 Passenger Private Swim Tours depart at 7:30am, 10:30am, and 1:30pm
Join Nature's Discovery for an exciting scalloping adventure in the beautiful waters of Crystal River. Our charters offer a unique opportunity to explore the Gulf Coast and participate in the popular pastime of scalloping. Whether you're a seasoned scalloper or a first-time visitor, our charters promise an unforgettable experience that combines fun with education on sustainable seafood practices.
Give your loved ones the gift of a lifetime with our Nature's Discovery Gift Card. Perfect for any occasion, our gift cards are easily transferable and redeemable at any available tour time for an all-inclusive experience. Whether it's a manatee excursion or an adventure on King's Bay, this gift card offers endless possibilities for unforgettable experiences.
Unforgettable Crystal River Boat Tours And Manatee Encounters
Your manatee encounter should feel perosnal, safe, and unforgettable! On our Manatee Tours of Crystal River, we treat every guest as if we are taking our own family on these excursions. We are the Original Free Photo Manatee Tours, and the ONLY tour company that offers all-inclusive photo packages on both our Semi-Private & Private Manatee Swims and our Classic Manatee Snorkeling Tour options. We are truly all-inclusive, with no hidden marina or snorkeling gear fees. Our US Coast Guard-Certified Master Captains and in-water guides have strong backgrounds working with guests from all over the world in and out of the water. Sit back and let us show you how our tours truly stand out from the other operators.
The captain provides all the safety and recreational equipment you'll need for an exciting day on the water. Join us for a day filled with fun, laughter, and the magic of nature that you'll cherish forever!
All of our world-class swim with the manatee adventures include above and underwater photos delivered free of charge at the end of your snorkeling experience! No upsells, no surprises--just memories to last a lifetime!
What child doesn't love to interact with animals? Our manatee tour option in Crystal River is available for all family members, so you can rest at ease that nobody will be left out of this incredible ...
What child doesn't love to interact with animals? Our manatee tour option in Crystal River is available for all family members, so you can rest at ease that nobody will be left out of this incredible experience of swimming with manatees. Snorkeling or swimming with the manatees requires no experience, so you don't have to worry about anyone feeling left out during this unforgettable outing.
Swimming with manatees in Crystal River is an easily attainable bucket list item to cross off! Crystal River is one of the few places in the world where it's legal to interact with these gentle giants...
Swimming with manatees in Crystal River is an easily attainable bucket list item to cross off! Crystal River is one of the few places in the world where it's legal to interact with these gentle giants, so you'd be missing out big time if you don't make a reservation for a manatee tour while you're in the area. With our world-class crew, we make it easy to snorkel with wild manatees and ensure a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Crystal River is located in Citrus County, Florida and is one of the few locations in the world where you can legally swim with manatees. It has the largest concentration of manatees in the United States, so you're nearly guaranteed to spot them on your trip.
This charming destination is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From exciting snorkeling trips with manatees and vibrant fish to scalloping snorkel adventures, there's something for everyone on the Nature Coast.
With its beautiful scenery and lively wildlife, Crystal River offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with Florida’s nature. Operating within a residential refuge, our guests will have the chance to spot manatees right in people’s backyards – a truly special experience! It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors and encounter these gentle creatures up close.
Most frequent questions and answers
April 1, 2025
Crystal River is not just a haven for manatees, it’s a stunning destination filled with natural beauty and outdoor adventures waiting for you to explo...
Read More: Discover The Best Time To See Manatees In Crystal River - A Complete Guide
April 1, 2025
Florida is known for its sun, fun, and traditions. One of the most awaited activities during the summer is scalloping. Both visitors and locals head t...
Read More: Scalloping In Florida - Your Ultimate Guide To A Fun Coastal Adventure!
April 1, 2025
A small city on Florida's Gulf Coast, Crystal River, located in Citrus County, offers a blend of beauty and fun. Known as the “Manatee Capital of the...
Read More: 5 Fun Things To Do In Crystal River, Florida For Adventure Seekers
