manatee tours destin fl

The Best Wildlife Tour in Southwest Florida!

Common wildlife sightings include manatees, everglades waterfowl, alligators, dolphins, bull shark & more.*, 4 adventures to choose from:, our success rate for seeing manatees on all of our adventures is 97% for 2024.

Manatee Sightseeing & Wildlife Boat Tour

Tour Length: 1½ Hours

Take the whole family on this exciting one and a half hour tour, exploring the Port of the Island’s Harbor and the Everglades searching for manatees, alligators, birds and other wildlife. The best tour for seeing manatees in their natural habitat!

Manatee, Dolphin & 10,000 Islands Beach Eco-Tour

Tour Length: 3 Hours

Our three hour Beach Eco-Tour is fun for all ages, with no rough waters. We look for manatees, alligators, dolphins and birds of the Everglades on our way to the 10,000 Islands. Enjoy beach time and shelling on Whitehorse Key. The boat creates a wake that dolphins enjoy. The best tour for a little bit of everything!

Manatee, Dolphin & 10,000 Islands Sunset Cruise

The only sunset cruise in the area with a chance of seeing manatees! Enjoy looking for alligators and birds as we head through the Everglades to the 10,000 Islands to watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. The best tour for a more romantic and all inclusive experience!

Kids & Family Fishing

Tour Length: 2½ or 5 Hours

Enjoy a fun-filled two and a half hours in the backwaters of the Everglades! Great catch and release fishing for children. No waves!

Fun Facts About Manatees

Number of vegetation species consumed by manatees.

Manatees feed on more than 60 species of plants including turtle grass, manatee grass, shoal grass and mangrove leaves.

How often do manatees give birth?

On average, one calf is born every two to five years. Twins are very rare!

How many manatees are in Florida?

The Florida manatee population has grown to a minimum of 7,520 animals today!

How many manatee species are there?

There are three species: the Amazonian manatee, the West Indian manatee and the West African manatee. Florida is home to the West Indian Manatee.

*All tours are different. Mother Nature can be unpredictable, therefore, sightings of specific wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

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Your Family's Gotta Try This: Snorkeling with Manatees in Crystal River

By Lauren Tjaden

When you get up-close-and-personal with a manatee, the first thing that you notice is its gargantuan size. Adult manatees are normally 9-10 feet long and weigh around 1,000 pounds, but they can grow to over 13 feet long and weigh more than 3,500 pounds. 1,000 pounds is the size of the average horse. That’s a big animal—whether you’re atop a paddleboard, in a kayak or boat, and particularly if you’re swimming next to one.

The second thing you notice is how cute they are. A manatee face is akin to something out of a cartoon, with tiny, round eyes and a shrunken, smushed- in version of an elephant’s trunk for a snout—big, soft and grey, complete with a smattering of whiskers. Their profiles are blimp-like, and they have two forelimb flippers they employ to steer and to hold vegetation while they munch on it.

Algae and barnacles cling to their backs, a hint at their speed—or rather, their lack of it. They normally lumber around at about five miles an hour, but have the capacity to motor up to 15 miles per hour in short bursts, should the rare occasion warrant it. They’re gentle beasts with no natural predators, and as they eat more than a tenth  of their weight in food every day, grazing is a focal point of their days.

Meeting these marvelous mammals is worthy of any bucket list, and the Sunshine State makes it easy, delivering a myriad of tours where the beloved manatee takes center stage- from kayaking and stand up paddle-boarding and boat tours to those that offer swimming with manatees.

Here’s your guide to Manatee tours in Florida.

Swimming with Manatees

Guided tours provide the easiest, safest, and surest way to swim with manatees. Conducted via boat or kayak, tours allow you to get into the water quicker and have a dry place to rest and keep your items.

Crystal River, Homosassa, and the waters of Florida’s Citrus County are one of the rare places in the world where you can have an in-water experience with manatees in their natural environment—and it’s ideal.

Heralded as the Manatee Capital of The World , every winter Citrus County draws between 500 and 1000 manatees to its springs, which provide a natural warm water refuge.  Even in the warm summer months, up to 100 manatees remain in the springs.

Tour companies on Kings Bay in Crystal River operate under Special Use Permits issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge , the sole Refuge in the United States solely dedicated to protecting critical habitat for manatees.

Tour guides are trained to make sure this beloved, threatened species is treated with the utmost care and respect, and all swimmers on manatee tours learn their “ Manatee Manners ” before ever getting in the water.

Check out these tour guides and outfitters that will take you on a once in a lifetime adventure to swim or snorkel with the manatees in the wild.

* If you prefer to keep your feet dry, most if not all of these tours offer manatee viewing as well as swimming.

Air Tank Divers , Homosassa

American Pro Diving Center , Crystal River

Art N' Diving Tours , Crystal River

Bird’s Underwater , Crystal River

Blue Heaven River Tours , Homosassa

Captain Mike's Swimming with the Manatees , Crystal River

Captain Tim’s Family Adventure Charters , Crystal River

City Sightseeing Orlando , Orlando

Crystal River Guide Service , Crystal River

Crystal River Kayak Company & Dive Center , Crystal River

Crystal River Watersports , Crystal River

Explorida , Crystal River

Florida Manatee Adventures , Crystal River

Gulf Coast Expeditions , Crystal River

Homosassa Manatee Snorkeling Center , Homosassa

Homosassa Manatee Snorkeling , Homosassa

Hunter Springs Kayaks , Crystal River

Manatee Connection , Crystal River

Manatee Tour & Dive , Crystal River

Manatees in Paradise , Crystal River

Nature Coast Manatee Tours , Crystal River

Paddles Outdoor Rentals , Crystal River

Pete's Pier , Crystal River

Plantation Adventure Center & Dive Shop , Crystal River

Plantation on Crystal River , Crystal River

River Adventure Tours , Homosassa

River Safaris , Homosassa

River Ventures , Crystal River and Homosassa

Salty Siren Tours & Charters , Crystal River

Sea Education Adventures (SEA) , Crystal River

SeaDaddy's Dive Center , Crystal River

Snorkel with the Manatees , Homosassa

Manatee Viewing

These tours offer the opportunity to observe manatees, not swim with them. In addition to the tour agencies listed here, most if not all of the companies that offer swimming with manatees offer ‘dry’ tours as well.

Canaveral Wildlife Tours , Merritt Island

Florida Cracker Riverside Resort , Crystal River

Florida Island Tours , Marco Island

Florida Keys Kayak and Paddleboard , Marathon

Florida Rick , Crystal River

Happy Place Adventures , Crystal River

Homosassa Fishing & Manatee Charters , Homosassa

Jupiter Outdoor Center , Jupiter

Kayaking SRQ , Sarasota

Manatee and Eco River Tours , Fort Myers

Manatee Sightseeing & Wildlife Adventures , Naples

Mellow Mangrove Charters , Homosassa

Merry Manatee Tours , Homosassa

Paddle the Florida Keys , Tavernier

SURFit USA , Sarasota

True North Tours Charter & Rentals , Crystal River

places to remember

Crystal River

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Bird's Underwater

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About the Tours

Join our most popular adventure! As we explore Kings Bay, in search of Florida’s favorite resident, The Florida Manatee!

We encourage and answer all of your questions, and we hope to pass our love and knowledge of the Florida Manatee along to all of our guests!

Our store front offers a library of manatee educational materials. We have free handouts from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with manatee info and a local map of Kings Bay.

It is a privilege to swim with these majestic creatures, and a wild experience that is unique to Citrus County Florida!

What time are manatee tours offered?

Bird’s Underwater offers public and private manatee tours daily, in Crystal River Florida. The early morning public manatee tour meets at 6am the majority of the year, and 6:30am for a few weeks in the spring and fall as daylight savings time approaches. We also offer public manatee tours at 11am and 2pm daily. Private manatee tours meet daily at 7am and 11:30am.

What manatee tour time do you recommend?

We always recommend the early morning public and private tours for the best experience. Bird’s Underwater is usually the first manatee tour company off the dock in the morning, which means less people and allows for a more personal experience. The manatees tend to be located closer to the springs at this time and concentrated in higher numbers.

How much do manatee tours cost?

Our public manatee tours start at $59.95 and go up to $65 for peak manatee season (November-April). Private manatee tours are $449 for a boat that holds up to six people, larger private manatee tours can be arranged for an additional $75 per person. We offer a 10% military/first responder discount and a 10% discount for groups of 10 or larger. You may find a few cheaper options out there, but we always recommend checking Google reviews before booking. We include wetsuit, mask, snorkel, drinks, and snacks.

Where do the manatee tours go?

There is often a lot of confusion about Crystal River, Kings Bay, and Three Sisters Springs. Kings Bay is located in Crystal River Florida, and is fed by over 30 fresh water springs. Kings Bay feeds Crystal River, which runs for approximately six miles before converging with the Gulf of Mexico. The river used to be crystal clear, but is no longer so, due to salt water intrusion. The springs that feed Kings Bay are where the pictures of the manatees in crystal clear water come from. The most well-known spring in the bay is Three Sisters Springs, and is a constant 72 degrees.

During the colder winter months manatees congregate around these springs in order to regulate body temperature. Our captains and guides are on the water every day, and are going to give you the best experience possible! We would love to have manatees in crystal clear water every day, but this isn’t always the case. We take tide, air temp, crowds, water temp, and experience into consideration and try to choose the best location for manatee viewing. You are welcome to request to go to Three Sisters Springs, but understand we may want to take you to other locations first. We will always do our best to give you the best manatee experience possible!

Where can I stay during my visit to Crystal River?

Bird’s Underwater recommends the Fishbowl house, in Homosassa Florida. This property is just over 15 minutes from our shop, located on the water, and has kayaks included! The rental property  is just around the corner from the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, where manatees gather during winter months. Learn more about the Fishbowl Rental by visiting https://www.vrbo.com/12054 .   There are several hotels in the Crystal River area, but most are not located on the water. We always recommend the Hampton Inn Crystal River, mention you are going out with Bird’s Underwater for a 10% discount.

What other services do you offer?

We are a full-service scuba diving training and sales facility and a Scubapro Platinum dealership, one of only 23 Platinum facilities in the Eastern US. Bird’s Underwater offers dive training at all levels! Bill “Bird” Oestreich is the only cave diving, Tri – Mix, and Megalodon Re-breather diving instructor in Crystal River, FL, with over 25 years of technical diving, dive training, and dive exploration conducted in over 5 countries.

Bird’s Underwater also offers kayak rentals and scalloping tours.

Why Choose Bird’s Underwater?

• Bird’s Underwater has been in business in Crystal River Florida for over 30 years.  
• Our pontoon boats are enclosed in the winter months.
• We have a dressing room in which you can put your dry clothes on after the tours on the cold winter days.This has become pretty common among the tour guides, but is not offered by all.
• We also carry hot chocolate, coffee and tea in the winter months.
• We are located on the water! Most operations require you to meet them at a public boat ramp, or be transported by their shuttle bus to the ramp.
• Our captains all hold a US Coast Guard Masters License, and many are SDI Dive Masters!
• We provide our customers with top of the line ScubaPro gear for their experiences.
• We have a wealth of manatee and scuba diving knowledge, and our customer service is top notch!

For a more extensive list of FAQ’s   click here . Feel free to call or email if you have any other questions or concerns.

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Manatee Tours and More

Adventures await you on the Nature Coast! We offer a variety of outdoor activities that are sure to amaze you, including our Manatee Swim Tours , an up-close experience with the lovable manatees, River Cruises with wildlife galore, Dolphin Tours that always excite, Fishing Charters both in-river and among the mangrove islands and Scallop Charters on our beautiful reefs and grass flats in the stunning Gulf of Mexico! We also offer a variety of other services to choose from such as Birding and Eco Tours and much more. Call now to reserve your authentic Florida vacation experience today!

Manatee Tours and More Captains

Manatee Tours and More is owned and operated by true Florida Natives. With generations of knowledge to share, Captain Erica Toney and Captain Anna Snow will share their love of the area and all of it's wildlife. Manatee Tours and More strives to provide an authentic Florida experience you will never forget!

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Manatee Tours and More wants to make sure you get the experience you deserve. Our manatee swims are backed by an open ended raincheck if the wildlife isnt cooperating on your original tour date

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ATD Manatee Tours Swim, snorkel and hang out with manatees with our fun and exciting manatee tours!

Welcome to the NEW Air Tank Divers Website!

Underwater Manatee Cam at Blue Spring State Park

$50 pp - wetsuit included!

No money required until the day of your tour. We are open all major holidays. Hot showers available after your tour. (352) 228-2712

(866) FL-DIVES      (866) 353-4837 We take phone reservations 24 hours a day.

You will swim, snorkel and hang out with manatees with Capt. Don and Capt. Elisa, who are the sole owners and operators of ATD Manatee Tours (aka AirTank Divers), so you will always have us as your captain's on the tour.

We've been in business for over 30 years and specialize in small, personalized tour groups of 2 to 12 people. there are never more then 6 people per vessel..

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Check out our 5 star ratings and reviews on Google, Yelp and Trip Advisor!

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Our information and dive center is officially open. We have lots of educational, fun things provided by your captains.

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Best Places to See the Manatees in Florida

Are you headed to Florida to escape the winter snow? Then you should definitely fit into your schedule one, two or all of the best places to go see the manatees. However, you have to time it just right to see gentle sea cows in action! In this article we’ll show you not only where to get the best views of the manatee sightings, but also, where you can actually swim with the manatees too!

So, let’s dive right in to  learn a few manatee fun facts, why they come to Florida and where they come chillax for the winter!

This blog article contains affiliate links. We may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure  here .

✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰

The Best Places to See the Manatees in Florida

Where can you actually swim with the Manatees too!

Where do the Florida manatees migrate from?

The Florida Manatee , a sub-species of the West Indian Manatee , inhabits the state’s coastal waters, rivers and springs when the northern water temperatures drop below 68°F (20°C). 

These gentle sea cows and bulls migrate to the warm turquoise artesian springs, coastal inlets and power plant discharge canals for refuge, rest and relaxation! And they’re all in the state of Florida!

But, did you know that some Florida manatees migrate even further up the Atlantic coastline to Georgia and the Carolinas?

And, sometimes hundreds of these gentle aquatic creatures travel as far north as Massachusetts during warm summer months.

Manatee’s Behavior

Manatees are named for their slow meandering to graze on vegetation. They are non-territorial, non-aggressive and eat 6-8 hours a day; primarily feeding on grasses and aquatic plants.

They spend the rest of their day socializing with other manatees as well as strengthening their curiosity. Manatees are inquisitive yet very docile.

According to Sea World , “Manatees are best described as semi-social. The basic social unit is a female and her calf. Groups of manatees gather and disperse casually.”

A group of manatees is called an aggregation . When they are grouping, they are either sharing a large grazing location, in search of a Cow, or just meandering as a herd.

They do tend to herd in the winter with other manatees in warmer and peaceful aquatic environments and disperse casually.

While aggregating, they play games like follow-the-leader and they love to bodysurf. Their snout nuzzles and vocals are signs of friendly communication, similar to human hugging or shaking hands.

How many manatees are in the United States?

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,

“The current (as of 2021) range-wide population is estimated to be at least 13,000 manatees, with more than 6,500 in the southeastern United States and Puerto Rico.

When aerial surveys began in 1991, there were an estimated 1,267 manatees in Florida.

Today there are more than 6,300 in Florida, representing a significant increase over the past 25 years. Learn more about the manatee’s road to recovery .”

What do manatees eat?

Manatees are herbivores. They eat submerged and floating aquatic plants such as seagrass and other natural underwater vegetation.

According to Save the Manatee organization,  “Manatees can eat 10–15% of their body weight in vegetation daily. A 1,000-pound (453-kilogram) manatee, for example, would probably eat between 100–150 pounds (45-68 kilograms) of food a day.”

Although manatees mainly eat a plant-based diet, they may inadvertently supplement their diets with zooplankton , mollusks and even sea squirts while munching on their aquatic vegetation salads.

Do alligators attack or eat manatees?

Alligators generally hang out in marshes. Whereas manatees tend to hang out in the crystal clear warm spring waters where they can swim freely.

So, to answer the question, ‘are alligators a threat to Manatees?”, the short answer is very rarely do alligators attack or interact with manatees.

Due to their large size and the ability to swim faster than alligators, they’re not in the alligator’s food chain. Manatees have no natural predators nor are they predatory.  They don’t pose as a threat or seek out other wildlife for food.

In other words, the manatee and alligator do coexist together in the same habitat!

When is manatee mating season?

Manatee mating season usually happens in shallow coastal waters between March and September. Manatees will congregate in groups of 10-15 to breed.

The reproductive rate for manatees is surprisingly low. And both, cows and bulls reach sexual maturity around their 5th birthday.

But, did you know that it’s not the male that’s looking for a little tail? Female manatees in heat (estrus) are actually the pursuers. Sea Cows will seek out a dominant male manatee to breed with.

Unlike most other mammals, manatees are not monogamous. They do not create permanent relationship bonds with the bull they mate with.

During mating, a dozen or more bulls will follow a cow until she decides on ‘the one’.

Females have a live birth to just one calf once every 3 years. Twin births are a rare phenomenon, but it does occur.

Although breeding and birth may occur at any time during the year, there appears to be a broad spring-summer calving peak season.

Newborn calves are capable of swimming to the surface on their own and vocalize soon after they are born.

How big do manatees get?

Female manatees, also known as cows , can grow to be anywhere from 10′ to 14′ long and up to 3500 pounds!

Whereas males manatees, also known as bulls , are typically smaller measuring about 9′ long and weighing 1200-1800 pounds.

Is the Florida Manatee a protected species?

The Florida Manatee is protected by the  Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978.

Violations of these acts may result in fines up to $100,000 and/or 1 year in prison.

When is the best time to see the manatees in Florida?

While you can spot the manatees year round, the months of November through April are the best time to see manatees in Florida.

However, from December through February, the manatee population is at its’ largest.

The summer months aren’t as favorable for manatee sightings due to the water temperatures being too warm for their liking.

The best time of day to see the manatees is early morning from about 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. when they are most active. So, you may want to set your alarm before the sun rises and meander to any of the manatee sighting locations.

Can you swim with manatees?

One of the most exhilarating experiences during your Florida vacation is to actually swim with the manatees !

However, as you’ll learn deeper into this article, you can’t swim or snorkel just anywhere there are manatees.

You need to know  where to go, what to do, and how to conduct yourself properly in the manatee’s habitat.

Swimming with the manatees requires planning and knowledge, including locating the right place to snorkel with them legally , bringing the right gear, and mastering manatee manners. This is why we highly recommend joining in an underwater snorkel tour to get the best experience possible.

However, be aware you may need to set your alarm clock. You’ll want to be out there early in the morning when the tide is in and when there’s less people.

And, we found weekdays are also best time of the week to see the manatees as weekends are more crowded with people.

So, while you can swim with the manatees, it’s best for these gentle giants too not touch, pet, feed, molest or harm them.

Also, snorkelers should never pursue them nor block their transit routes. Just watch them.

And, if you have your underwater camera or GoPro outfitted with underwater videoing, you can record some great memories.

However, before donning your snorkel gear, you need to watch the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service video  (below) on Manatee Manners :

Now that we’ve learned all about the Florida manatees, it’s time to check out where the best places to see the manatees in Florida!

Crystal River

I’m a bit partial here saying that Crystal River, Florida is one of my favorite places to visit for a variety of reasons. Located on Florida’s Nature Coast , it has a lot of awesome eco-incredible stuff going on.

But, it’s also because of the star of the show; the Manatee! Crystal River is, hands down, the absolute best place to see the manatees in Florida!

And so, the show begins as the aquatic gentle giants arrive in mid November at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to escape the cold Gulf of Mexico waters. 

Crystal River is located in Citrus County about 90 minutes north of Tampa, on the west coast of Florida. The headwaters of Crystal River are known as Kings Bay , where the water temperature is a consistent 72 degrees year-round. 

Kings Bay hosts the largest aggregation of manatees in the entire world! Hence why Citrus County is known as the Manatee Capitol of the World !  And it’s no wonder! 

Kings Bay has more than 70 springs that produce about 240 million gallons of fresh water daily. The bay flows into Crystal River which discharges into the Gulf of Mexico.

To protect the manatees from harm, harassment and disturbance, the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and Manatee Sanctuaries were created in parts of Kings Bay.

Three Sisters Springs  is the most beautiful spring system in Kings Bay and the most important for wintering manatees.

Shuttles to the Three Sisters Springs boardwalk are available daily but reservations are needed. 

But, the reason why Crystal River’s Three Sisters Springs is my favorite manatee sighting location is it’s the only place  you legally swim with manatees  in North America!

However, while you can swim with the manatees, Crystal River NWR strongly urges swimmers and snorkelers to watch  “ Manatee Manners “ before initiating any recreation activity in Kings Bay. 

For more information on the Refuge and manatees, visit U.S. Fish and Wildlife Refuge Crystal River . 

Also, manatee sightings are often reported near the Chassahowitzka River boat ramp and feeding along the riverbank.

And, if you’re kayaking or canoeing, paddle to the Seven Sisters Springs or journey up Baird Creek to Maggie’s Crack , another beloved local spring.

And now you know why Crystal River is the best place to see manatees!

✰ ✰  RELATED   ✰ ✰    Check out our   Things to Do at Crystal River Florida – Complete Visitor’s Guide

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Also in Citrus County near Crystal River, Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park  is another great place to see manatees in Florida.

The Homosassa spring system pumps 65 million gallons a day from three spring vents into the Homosassa River flowing to Homosassa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

At Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, visitors can see the manatees at the Park’s “Fishbowl”. It’s an underwater observatory where you can get face to face with the manatees without even getting wet.

Visitors can also take in their daily programs to learn about the manatee and how the Refuge and Rehabilitation Center helps injured or orphaned manatees.

And the outdoor protected area, Blue Water , a freshwater spring under a natural aquifer provides a nice warm and peaceful place for manatees to congregate, eat their salad and show their cute faces.

Blue Spring State Park

Over 600 manatees gather at Florida’s Blue Spring State Park from mid-November to March to escape the cold waters. This makes Blue Spring another of Florida’s best places to see manatees!

In fact, last count was about 624 according to Save the Manatee ‘s 2020-2021 Manatee Reports . Visitors can get a great view of the gentle giants from the boardwalk along the St. John’s River to the headspring.

Can’t get down to Florida to see the manatees? You can check out their multiple webcams  above water and underwater . 

✰ ✰ DID YOU KNOW?   ✰ ✰   Blue Space is Linked to Boosting Mental Health & Well Being

Wakulla River and the St. Marks River are great viewing locations to watch for manatees during the summer months.

The sea creatures oftentimes congregate at the headwaters in Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park throughout the year. They can be seen in the Wakulla River. You may also may score a manatee sighting at Miramar Beach.

Everglades National Park

It was purely by accident that we got to see manatees at the  Flamingo Visitor Center  at  Everglades National Park  in Homestead, Florida.

However, we noticed the manatee’s skin looks a little rougher and sadly scarred. We’re thinking it may be from the airboats zipping around the tributaries.

The visitor center is helpful for getting suggestions on the best places to view wildlife and has some interesting displays.

From the visitor center, just walk the short distance to the marina, where you can see the manatees sunning themselves. If you’re lucky, you may have one even come close to the dock to say hello.

Fort Pierce

Fort Pierce is another of the best places to see manatees but this time on Florida’s east coast. It’s home to another group of manatees who make their way from the Gulf of Mexico up along the east coast to cooler waters.

So, you’ll need to check out the  Manatee Observation and Educational Center in Fort Pierce.

As well, you can also see manatees at Moore’s Creek throughout the year. However, your best bet is to visit during winter time.

The  Florida Keys

There are several locations for manatee sightings in the Florida Keys.

In the Middle Keys that encompass Islamorada, Marathon, and Big Pine Key, there’s a good chance to see manatees and their calves in the seagrass at the inlet at Lorelei’s Restaurant and Cabana Bar on the waterfront.

So, you can rent a kayak or bring your own and explore Indian Key Historic State Park and enjoy a sunset dinner to close your day.

In Key Largo, there are regular manatee sightings at the Pilot House Restaurant , behind the Murray Nelson Government Center and the Hampton Inn.

You can also get to see manatees while enjoying a beer at Sharkey’s Sharkbite Grill  while looking out at the canal.

Or, I’ve heard you can grab some lunch at Skippers Dockside  and sit along the rail bordering the canal. Both are located at mile marker 100 in Key Largo.

Islamorada Eco-Tours and Wildlife Displays offers great opportunities to see manatees, dolphins, sea lions, sting rays, crocodiles, birds and other wildlife. You can snorkel and swim the coral reef or end the day with an amazing sunset!

However, it bears repeating though, the only place you can actually swim with the manatees is at Crystal River.

At the southern most Key, the West Indian Manatee claims the waters around Key West. I’ve learned that this particular breed likes warm, shallow water and can in fact die in water colder than 60 degrees.

There have been sightings around the Key West Bight Area ; off the beach at the Pier House and around Garrision Bight and the Ocean Key House Pier .

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Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has a Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation critical care center. It’s one of four manatee rescue programs in the state of Florida.

I’ve learned another of the great manatee viewing area is around the power plants in Jacksonville, Florida.

Lee County Manatee Park

Lee County Manatee Park in Fort Myers, Florida has a great viewing area for spotting lots of the sea mammals. Manatee Park is ideal refuge for the Florida Manatee because of the warm protected waters.

The park is located at Palm Beach Boulevard in Fort Myers.

Do know there’s a $2/hour or $5/day parking fee and a $10 for a Shuttle Van or $20 for a Tour Bus per visit (2022 prices).

Visitors can also rent kayaks or pick up souvenirs at their gift shop at the  Manatee Kayaking Company . Group Tours and programs are available on request. Call (239) 690-5030 for more information.

And if you bring your own kayak, there is a kayak self-launch area. 

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Manatees frequent Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge mostly during the Spring and Fall months.

Visitors can see these gentle giants best at the Manatee Observation Deck on SR 3 at Haulover Canal.  Another manatee viewing zone is near the Bairs Cove boat launch.

A few of the popular tour companies in the Siesta Key may get you a great view of manatees. However, never assume you’ll see them. It’s best to ask before booking your tour.

If you’re visiting off season or you prefer not to get into the water, Mote Marine Aquarium is a great viewing manatee viewing option.

Oh, and while you’re in Sarasota, if you’re into great seafood, we highly recommend dropping in for lunch at  Walt’s Fish Market Restaurant and Tiki Bar  on the Tamiami Trail. Trust me, speaking from personal experience, they have the best Grouper sandwich EVER!

TECO Manatee Viewing Center, Apollo Beach

Tampa Electric and Emera Company’s (TECO) Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach is an exceptional place where manatees gather. In fact, it’s one of the best places to see manatees in Florida and hike too!

Big Bend’s discharge canal is a state and federally designated manatee sanctuary that provides critical protection from the cold for these unique, gentle animals.

Visitors can hike the Manatee Viewing Center’s habitat loop trail; a winding route through natural Florida terrain to the wildlife observation tower.

You’ll definitely want to climb up the 50 foot high tower to get a fantastic view of the surrounding habitat and estuary below.

Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center is open from November 1st to April 15th from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The Nature Trail and Wildlife Observation Tower close at 4 PM.

Check to see if manatees are at the center using our east and west  web cameras from home!

Weeki Wachee State Park

Our last best place to see the manatees in Florida is Weeki Wachee State Park . And for good reason.

And even though we’ve not kayaked Weeki Wachee yet, according to the Florida Rambler ,  “You can see manatees at any point along the Weeki Wachee; sometimes there are manatees right at the springhead. Kayakers who start at the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park no longer paddle as far as Hospital Hole.”

How can we help keep the manatees safe?

As visitors, we can help the manatees thrive by maintaining a healthy distance from them in their natural habitat.

When boating, stay in the deep-water channels whenever possible and follow the speed zones. And when in doubt, move slower.

Manatees can be severely and lethally injured by boat collisions. Avoid boating over seagrass beds and shallow areas, as this is where manatees feed, sleep and hang out. 

Keep your trash in an enclosed bag or can on your boat and away from the water; making certain none of your trash exits the boat. 

When fishing, never discard monofilaments fishing lines, hooks, any foreign matter or litter into the water.

Planning your RV  vacation  to Florida?

If you’re planning on taking your RV to Florida to see the manatees, it’s important to plan ahead so your experience will be less stressful.

Anytime we plan our RV destinations, we start our research using RV LIFE Trip Wizard . RV Trip Wizard gets you to your camping destinations utilizing RV-friendly routes specific to your RV and travel preferences. You can try it FREE for 7-Days !

Wrapping up the best places to see Manatees in Florida

So, what did you think of this awesome list of places to see the Florida manatees?

I promise, once you see the grace and grandois of these gentle chubby sea creatures, you’ll understand the allure.

If you have any other cool places to see the manatees, let us know in the comments so other readers can take note.

Check out this fun manatee gear:

Attention coastal travelers.

Complete Visitor’s Guide to Crystal River Florida

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Beach Camping in the U.S. – How to Find Places to Camp on the Water!

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RVing to Florida?

Complete Listing of RV Shows in the U.S.

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9 Best Places To Kayak With Manatees In Florida

August 16, 2021 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you wondering where you can kayak with manatees in Florida? You have come to the right place. In this article, we will walk you through where to kayak with manatees and give you all the information you need.

Kayaking with manatees in Florida is such a special experience, one we feel everyone needs to have once in their life. All the places we have mentioned here allow you to do this safely and in no way endanger the animals.

Manatees are such lovely creatures also known as sea cows they are like giant friendly animals in the water. They are also are protected under the Endangered Species Act and under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

These protections were put in place when the numbers started to decline. In 1991 there was believed to be just over 1,200 and now there are approx 6,500. They are still a threatened species though so please be careful.

The best place to kayak with manatees in Florida is in the springs. The water tends to be clearer here so you can see them easier. In winter they move towards the springs so there is more of a concentration in one place.

The best time to see them tends to be from November to March peaking in December, January, and February.

While kayaking with manatees in Florida please don’t ever touch the manatees or interfere with them in any way. Just observe them from your kayak and be a passive observer of them. Do not feed them human food or chase them.

Manatees are intelligent animals and really friendly and curious so they might approach you if you are lucky. If they do just observe. Never kayak over a resting manatee and use shallow paddles so you keep your disturbance to a minimum.

So are you ready to learn where you can kayak with manatees in Florida? Here are the best manatee kayaking spots in Florida.

Kayaking Crystal River

Crystal River has one of the largest populations of wild manatees in the world. If you want to kayak with manatees in Florida, Crystal River is a perfect day out and a great place to see these amazing creatures.

Just 90 minutes from Tampa it’s easy to get to and well served with amenities. You can hire kayaks here or go on a kayak tour. You can of course also bring your own kayak.

Crystal River is in Kings Bay Park and Three Sister Spring is accessible from the river. The water is refreshing and the scenery is luscious. This really is a beautiful area.

It is best to go as early as you can and on a weekday when the area is less busy. If the water is crowded with manatees you might find the location or parts of the location closed. Do not go into the closed areas they are there to protect the manatees.

Manatees flock here in the winter months for the warmer water of the springs. There are 70 springs in this 600-acre bay. It is believed as many as 800 manatees arrive here in the winter months.

During peak manatees months you can not kayak in the springs however you will see manatees in other areas. If you come just before they close the spring off you are likely to see some in the springs.

This is also one of the only places you can swim with manatees.

If you are looking into kayaking with manatees in Florida and are short on time this is the place to go.

Kayaking Manatee Park in Fort Myers

A warm-water refuge for the manatee when the Florida water gets too cold for them. The warm water in Manette park is not heated by a spring but by a power plant that discharges warm water.

Again the best time to see them is in December to February but they do hang around from November to March.

Some areas are closed to kayaks but you can spot them outside of these closed areas. The water isn’t clear here like a spring so they are a little more challenging to find.

The park is free to enter although parking does cost. You can rent a kayak or bring your own. You can also enjoy the butterfly garden, nature trail, and ethnobotany trail in the park.

The area around the canal where the manatees ‘hang out’ is off-limits with a fence. This area is always busy so kayak upstream a bit on the Orange River. Not only will it be more tranquil but you will get to see curious manatees by your boat.

A great spot close to Fort Myers .

Kayaking In Blue Springs Orlando

Blue Springs State Park was established after researchers tracked manatees swimming up from the St Johns River and it is a great place to kayak with manatees in Florida.

Swimming with the manatees is not permitted however by kayak you can easily see the manatees from a safe distance.

The water here is so clear and they are really easy to spot and as many as 500 have been known to frequent this area at peak season. In peak manatee season the spring is closed off to kayaks but you often will see them in St John’s River.

In the summer some manatees come to this area to birth and nurse their young calves so you may see one out of season.

A lot of research happens in Blue Springs and there is an under and over water webcam so you can spy on the manatees even when you are not there.

Kayaking At Silver Springs 

Famous for its glass-bottom boats and used as a location in many a blockbuster kayaking with manatees in Florida doesn’t get better than at Silver Springs State Park!

Firstly you can actually hire glass-bottom tandem kayaks. Second, you have five miles of protected waterways here. Thirdly the water here is so clear.

In the winter the manatees will come into the spring area in the warmer months they will venture out to the river. You will know you are near one from ripples in the water or the trademark noise they make when they surface to breathe.

This park is one of the largest artesian springs in the world. There are lots to do here and while it can get busy it tends to not be quieter than some of the easier-to-reach spring locations in the state.

Kayaking At Manatee Springs State Park

Located in Chiefland , Florida it’s a first magnitude spring, and manatees love the warm water at the mouth of the springhead from the Suwanee River.

It opens at 8 a.m until sundown it costs $6 a vehicle. This state park has an 800-foot boardwalk that overlooks the springs so it’s also easy to see the manatees without even getting in the water.

The kayak launch area is near the northwest corner of the parking lot and you can rent a kayak if you don’t have one.

The springs are also home to 5 miles of underwater caves and are a popular scuba diving location. You will also find a picnic area, tables, grills, and pavilions.

The park also offers 8.5 miles of nature trails and a safe connection to the 32-mile Nature Coast State Trail. There is much more to do here than just kayak with manatees.

A great location to really make a day of it.

Kayaking In Lovers Key Fort Myers Beach

Despite having one of the loveseat beaches in Florida this island is a perfect place for kayaking with manatees. Manatees can be seen in the lagoons and canals surrounding the island if the water is at the right temperature.

While you can do a lot here bird watching and beachcombing to name a few we recommended you rent a kayak and enjoy the waters. The island is so secluded you can often hear the manatees communicating with each other before you actually see any.

Park rangers lead tours daily that last about three hours and this is the best way to know you are looking in the right direction. The guides will lead you to all the hotspots. Hopefully, you will see these amazing creatures playing, rolling around, and somersaulting.

You don’t have to go on a tour there is a kayak launch, use the boat ramp, but we feel it gives you the best chance of seeing manatees.

This place really is beautiful and don’t be surprised if you see a wedding taking place it’s a popular wedding location .

Kayaking At Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is home to the deepest freshwater cave system in the country and abundant protected wildlife, including manatees.

The springs and river that feed it are beautiful and with average water temperatures in the river of 72 F, you will often see manatees in the warm waters or the clear spring.

You can see manatees at any point on the river and springhead and look out for the darker areas of the river as there are some underground springs here which the manatees love.

When kayaking with manatees here head upstream as this is where you are most likely to find them. You can launch from the spa area or rent a kayak here.

Kayaking At Tarpon Springs

In Craig Park there is Spring Bayou it’s a freshwater spring that attracts manatees. The manatees are best seen here between December and March.

You can launch a kayak here along the southern bank of the Anclote River however we recommend if you can going on a tour in one of the completely clear kayaks.

Firstly completely clear kayaks need we say more but secondly, the manatees are less protected here so you don’t want to do anything to disturb them. Thirdly a local guide will have much more knowledge of where the manatees are preferring to hang out at the moment.

Only 45 minutes from Tampa this is a great spot to go if you are short on time. There are also lots of things to do in Tarpon Springs so you can totally make a day of it.

Kayaking At Ichetucknee Springs

Many think that the Ichetucknee River and Springs are some of the best kayaking in Florida. This area is just naturally beautiful and the blue-green water and lazy river are just so relaxing. It’s a real tropical paradise.

No one told the manatees though and while you can kayak with manatees here we can’t guarantee you will see one wherein some of the other locations you almost definitely will.

The river is fed by nine springs and the current is gentle making it great for tubing in the summer and kayaking in winter months where you might spot a manatee.

It’s a beautiful three-mile paddle from the northern to southern point. If you are patient and lucky you will see a manatee or two but don’t expect the numbers you get elsewhere.

Whether you see an elusive manatee or not you won’t be disappointed as the other wildlife is much easier to spot in the quieter winter months.

If you have never kayaked before this is a great place to start the water is crystal clear, there are no barriers along the way and the current is swift enough to carry you without scaring you.

Bring your own canoe or hire one. You will need to park in the southern part of the park and you will be shuttled to the northern starting point.

If you want to chance to see a manatee in a beautiful location then this is for you.

As you can see there are many places to kayak with manatees in Florida. There is nothing like seeing these gentle giants in the wild.

Manette kayaking in a once in a lifetime experience, it is a special privilege that we hope you get to experience. Please come back and tell us all about it. We would love to know how kayaking with the manatees went for you.

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Manatee Encounters in Crystal River, Florida

Providing 5 Star Manatee Snorkel Tours since 1995!

SWIM WITH MANATEES ON OUR MOST POPULAR WILDLIFE TOURS

Crystal River Florida is the only place in the United States where you can legally swim with these amazing and gentle creatures right in their own natural habitat. Crystal River, FL boasts the largest concentration of manatees in the world and since 1995 Fun 2 Dive has been the leader in bringing visitors face to face with these gentle giants.

You can review available manatee tour options below to get more information on each tour that we offer. Online reservations are quick, easy, and secure, and booking confirmations are immediate via email. Take some time to browse around our website as there is a lot of information here. Be sure to visit our FAQ page for answers to the most commonly asked questions. Manatee Tours operate daily year round including most major holidays. Reservations in advance are required

• Most Popular!
• Tag Private Tour $600
• Users Maximum of 12 People

Classic Manatee Swim

Our classic manatee tour is an adventure that you and your family are sure to remember forever. Conducted daily, this approximately three-hour swim with manatees tour packs a whole lot of adventure, education, and excitement!

• Tag Private Tour $425
• Users Maximum of 6 People

Semi-Private Manatee Swim

Our small group manatee snorkel tours are limited to no more than 6 guests per boat. This is the tour that made us famous and is clearly the best deal going on the refuge.

CHOOSE YOUR WILDLIFE ADVENTURE

Crystal River, Florida boasts the largest concentration of Manatees in the world, so there is no question why we are known globally as the “Home of the Manatees”.

MANATEE ENCOUNTERS

Eco adventure airboat tour, kayak & sup rentals, scallop adventures, about fun 2 dive.

Welcome to Fun 2 Dive Manatee Tours where we specialize in five-star small, semi-private, and private manatee snorkeling tours. We are open daily, year-round.

We conduct tours to swim with manatees in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Tours are conducted from stable boats with heavy duty ladders, where we enter the water to encounter wild manatees in their natural habitat.

In 1983, the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge was established in Kings Bay to specifically protect the Florida manatees that consider this area their home. King’s Bay is fed by 40 natural springs, which maintain a constant temperature of 72 °F (22 °C) — a temperature that the Manatees love and need.

OVER 3000 FIVE-STAR TRIP ADVISOR REVIEWS!

Ryan and Jessica were great to tour with, extremely knowledgeable, and went out of their way to look for manatees further away from the crowds when possible. We saw several manatees and a few calves with their moms. Fun 2 Dive staff are very friendly and respectful to the environment and the animals which I hope we all learn from in the years to come. They also take excellent photographs, so you can leave your camera at home.

Just went on our first trip out to see the manatees. Captain Jason and guide Bree were amazing and so patient. The knowledge they both shared made the trip magical. If you come to see manatees I would definitely go with Fun 2 Dive. The entire staff was awesome and worked together to ensure we all had great tours and made memories to last a lifetime.

This was worth the money. We visited in the "off season" for manatees and were a little worried we might not find one. However, our guides knew all the best places and we were in the water for over 2 hours within a few feet of them. The equipment provided was like new and we were given helpful instructions on appropriate behavior when interacting with the manatees. We chose the 6 people or less in a group option and I would say the smaller the group had better the experience.

One of the absolute best experiences we’ve ever had. My dive partner Ryan, and our Captain Jason made this trip one of the best we’ve ever done. They are professional, knowledgeable, and absolutely delightful to be with. Even if you’re not swimming & you just stay on the boat to observe it's a fabulous way to spend a few hours. If you’re ever looking for an exceptional Florida adventure, look no further! We’ll be back!

I can honestly say this was my greatest experience to date. Dani was very knowledgeable and made us feel comfortable searching for manatees. She took great pictures and made sure our group was all accounted for. Captain Ryan, our boat driver, was very informative about the areas and waters. He knew key spots to dive into. Also had a couple laughs along the way. Top notch service!

Great staff, super friendly, great with our kids, very knowledgeable, answered all our questions and more! We had a great experience with them, and were able to be out with the manatees for quite a while. They seem to genuinely love their job. We really enjoyed our time with you! Thank you for giving us some great memories.

Our family of 5 had our own 6 person boat with Megan and Ryan. They found a mother and calf for us to dive with for almost 2 hours! Plus we hit a crystal clear spring. Awesome service and all their equipment was clean and in great condition. Highly recommend them and we will return with 3 kids aged 10, 8 and 5.

What are you waiting for?

Swim with the manatees today.

Book without a worry! We offer a 100% refund if we cancel your tour due to weather.

Dolphin & Manatee

Paddle board and kayak adventure tours, central east coast, paddle board tours, southwest florida, central florida, join us on a dolphin & manatee adventure tour.

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5 Thrilling Videos of Manatees in Destin

Holy (sea)cow florida is home to some incredible sea life....

Home  >  Blog  >  Adventure  >  5 Thrilling Videos of Manatees in Destin

Posted on 8/20/2021

Holy (sea)cow! Florida is home to some incredible sea life, and Destin is no exception. Manatees roam the warm Gulf waters, and it is always a delight to see these real-life gentle giants in their natural habitat. We want to share a couple of great videos that show thrilling footage of these incredible creatures.

But first, a few facts about these remarkable animals.

Manatees are docile marine animals that inhabit warm, shallow, and slow-moving bodies of water, such as bays, canals, estuaries, and coastal areas. There are three types of manatees: West Indian, African, and Amazonian. The ones found in Florida are West Indian manatees. Cold waters can cause stress in manatees, which is why the Gulf Coast water is perfect for them. Manatees are a keystone species, providing healthy homes in the seagrass for other marine animals. They are large in stature, measuring an average of 10-feet long and weighing up to 1200 lbs. Often called sea cows, manatees eat 10% of their body weight in seagrass—every single day! That would be like a man-eating about 16 pounds of food a day. How crazy is that?

These creatures are what we should all aspire to be—relaxed! Their days mostly consist of eating, resting, and traveling. What a life! In keeping with their calm natures, manatees typically move slowly, but they can put on bursts of speed if the need arises. While they spend much of their time submerged underwater, they are mammals, and therefore need air to breathe. On average, they resurface between three and five minutes.

Recently removed from the " Endangered Species " list, manatees are still classified as a " Vulnerable Species ," meaning their population is decreasing. As such, it is very important to be educated on how to respect, support, and conserve manatee populations. Manatees are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973. West Indian Manatees are also protected by the 1978 Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act, making it illegal to touch a manatee. West Indian manatees do not have any natural predators. Cold stress and disease are common natural causes of death, and habitat loss is the most immediate threat to manatee populations. However, a high number of fatalities are attributed to watercraft collisions and other human-related causes. This means it is necessary to be cautious when driving boats in areas where manatees are located. Do not get too close—it is not worth risking a manatee's life just for the photo-op!

Related artcile: Whale Sharks in Destin

But don't worry, there are safe ways to interact with manatees, some of which include guided manatee tours in Florida and spotting them at a safe distance in the wild. And, of course, you can always watch videos of these cool animals.

Check out these five videos of manatees in Destin. Whether you're a manatee expert or novice, you're in for a real treat.

Manatee Spotted Swimming with Beachgoers in Florida

This video by Birds-iView Aerial Photography catches birds-eye-view footage of a lone manatee swimming with beachgoers in Miramar Beach. Awestruck onlookers maintain their distance, watching the majestic manatee as it swims idly by, doing what manatees do best—relaxing in the warm water.

Manatee Swims Close to Destin Florida Shore

As he was on his way to shore after paddleboarding, YouTube user mxrider418 caught sight of a manatee and recorded it with his GoPro. The video has both above and underwater shots, capturing the smooth way the manatee cuts through the waves, despite the creature's size. What a great experience!

Helicopter Tour of Destin Beach, Florida - Manatees & Dolphins!

This helicopter tour video not only shows sweet views of Destin - but it also catches sight of a group of manatees. The Gulf's crystal-clear water makes it easy to see the four manatees in a v-formation as they swim along their merry way. If you keep watching, you'll also get to see some dolphins!

Manatees in Destin Florida

In this video by Dylan Sims, some social manatees join a group of paddleboarders for a swim. They look right at home, swimming smoothly beside these paddlers. Needless to say, those paddleboarders sure had something to tell their friends about that day!

Manatee Spotted Near Destin, FL East Jetties

Chill music and incredible camera angles capture an inspiring video of a manatee and her calf located near the . The manatees joined divers, snorkelers, and other onlookers in a swim that they won't soon forget. The curious animals swam right up to the camera, floating gracefully and allowing us spectators to see them up close. Be sure to watch to the end of the video, when the manatee snuggles right up to the cameraman!

Spotted: Aggregation of manatees on Emerald Coast

Because five thrilling videos isn't enough, and since an aggregation of manatees just passed through Destin this week... we've expanded our list to include a 6th video! Saving the best for last? We think so. Check out this evening news report from a CBS affiliate out of Mobile, AL.

If seeing a manatee is on your bucket list, you might just get to see one when you vacation in Destin. Reserve your stay with us, where you can enjoy an awesome Destin beach house , make fun memories, and maybe even see a manatee!

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Watch: Lifeguard captures group of manatees swimming through Miramar Beach

MIRAMAR BEACH — A lifeguard got to spend time with a rare group of tourists Thursday afternoon.

Courtney Campbell, a South Walton Fire District lifeguard on duty in Miramar Beach, captured video of a group of manatees swimming through South Walton waters .

Campbell moved in close enough to get video of the animals but did not touch any of them, according to a SWFD Facebook post.

Manatees are a protected species by state and federal laws. Unfortunately, their population numbers continue to decline, and as a result manatees are now also a threatened species, the post said.

Beachgoers had reported spotting the manatees at Crystal Beach near Destin earlier in the afternoon, and later in the day social media users reported a sighting at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.

Previous sighting: Destin underwater photographer captures up-close shot of manatee mother, calf

More manatees: Local boater captures video of manatee at Crab Island

Manatees inhabit rivers, bays, canals, estuaries and coastal areas, moving freely between fresh, saline and brackish waters, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Estuaries, freshwater lakes, springs and rivers provide extensive beds of seagrass and abundant freshwater vegetation that are manatees' primary food sources. 

Human-manatee interactions are comparatively common in South and Central Florida. They are far more infrequent in Northwest Florida. However, Florida manatees can be found west in the Gulf of Mexico through coastal Louisiana and are occasionally sighted as far west as Texas, according to the FWC.

It is illegal to feed, harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, annoy or molest manatees.

More information about manatees, including how to live with them and how to help preserve them, is available at FWC  https://myfwc.com/education/wildlife/manatee/ .

Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer

• Crystal River is home to a large endangered manatee population in winter
• Wetsuits, hot chocolate are included in the manatee adventure
• The in-water guide takes videos and photos that are available for purchase
• The on-site docks feature a heated changing facility with showers
• Use of full 5mm wetsuits (for extra warmth), mask and snorkel
• Coffee and/or Tea, Hot chocolate, bottle water
• Towel Service
• US Coast Guard certified captain and Professionally Insured in water guide
• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• DVD or Flash Drive (available to purchase)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Plantation Adventure Center and Manatee Tours, 9301 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429, USA Located on property at the Plantation on Crystal River
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Wetsuits available in children's size 6 up to 3XL
• Children most be accompanied by an adult
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• Minimum age requirement of 6 years old
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 11 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• ladylake1 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Needs renovation This property is in need of a major renovation. Signs of wear prominent. Ongoing problems with tv when we just wanted to sit back and relax. That being said there are some redeeming factors. Staff friendly and helpful. Great location to a variety of restaurants. Adventure center boat tour very nice. Pleasant outdoor surroundings. Will I go back? No unless major upgrades are complete. This was not a good value. Read more Written April 24, 2024
• David A 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Birthday with Manatees Awesome. Captain Cory and Guide Melissa worked together to put us on the manatees. They were fun and personable. We couldn’t have asked for a better trip. Read more Written April 17, 2024
• kdkelley 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must do We had such a great time! Orville was our dive master, he was the best. He was so knowledgeable about the area and the manatee. Taught us about their migration, their eating habits, their personalities and how he has bonded with some of them. The boat had a cover and they had plenty of coffee and hot chocolate to keep you warm after you got out and made your way back to the dock. Read more Written April 8, 2024
• ambercN5725EU 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Magical Experience!!! We had an amazing time with our family on our private Manatee Tour! Our guide, Ryan, was informative and helpful in the water! Unfortunately, our tour was after the August 2023 hurricane and the waters were pretty murky. This is totally out of control of the tour. Our guide found a manatee (Patches) and her baby! While visibility was low due to the waters, the experience of Patches swimming under me with her baby was something I will never forget! Ryan took excellent photos that I will forever cherish. We had plenty of time in our tour to head over to Three Sisters. The tagged manatee boy was there resting and the water was CLEAR! Our guide was able to get pictures of us with this sweet manatee in the backdrop as well as many scenic underwater pictures and pictures of our family that we didn't even know he was taking! Truly, a magical experience that I would do again! Do the tour! Have someone else take pictures! Be in the moment! Love love loved this so much!!!! Read more Written April 6, 2024
• sharlindah 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience Great experience! The captains were knowledgeable and entertaining. We saw lots of wild life including birds and manatees. They were very qualified . We felt safe. Read more Written April 6, 2024
• Guide38686827591 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great time! We had a great time, saw a lot of manatees. The crew was very informative. Definitely will go back. Had some beautiful homes Read more Written April 1, 2024
• W7746MQsueb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely afternoon The captains were very knowledgeable and entertaining! We learned a lot about the area and had a really pleasant experience. Read more Written March 22, 2024
• 909sherrir 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Very nice tour Very nice cruise. Our guide was very good, funny and informative. Unfortunately sun turned to clouds so could not see many manatees but no control over that. I would Difinitely do it again and the price was very reasonable. I should throw in that this time of year, the noseeums and mosquitoes will eat you alive at that time of night so come prepared. 😂 Read more Written March 22, 2024
• PHeijerman 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very nice 👌🏻 Very nice boat trip around the Kingsbay area. We had a nice day on the with a little breeze to cool down 😇 Even spotted a bold eagle 🦅 Read more Written March 17, 2024
• DayTrip671922 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Bucket List Item Completed! Just returned from our trip to Tampa and can't say enough about our tour experience at Plantation Adventure Center. Dave was our boat captain and Tristan was our Divemaster/Photographer--they were phenomenal! Due to the hurricane last year there weren't as many manatees as we had hoped to see but Dave and Tristan went our of their way to get us to as many spots as possible to catch some sightings. We loved every minute of our experience and are planning a future return so that we can do it again! Read more Written March 15, 2024
• pzkat 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Friendly staff, wonderful experience up on the water We had a great time on the early morning semi-private tour. It was beautiful to start out before sunrise and watch the sunrise from the water. We were able to tour the bay and swim in the 3 sisters springs and see these gentle giants up close and personal. Our guide was lovely and knowledgeable as was our boat captain. Warm drinks and parkas on board made for a cozy and comfortable experience. The staff couldn’t have been friendlier. Would highly reccommend! Read more Written March 13, 2024
• johntJ1322QJ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome Manatee Tour! Awesome tour with Kendra and Cory. Highly recommend! Manatees were incredible and the tour was flexible to allow us to stay with the manatees since they were in a crystal clear location. Read more Written March 11, 2024
• Lisa B 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Meh. I’m really glad to see all these manatee pictures because our experience did not meet any of these experiences. When considering in doing the tour, I think it’s important to have realistic expectations. 1) no guarantee to see manatees 2) manatees like warm water, but as soon as they are able to leave for the gulf, they do. 3) there are A LOT of boats, snorkelers and kayakers all trying to see them. 4) the water is VERY murky…not clear like the photos. We departed at 7:15am. It was dark and cold…we were all freezing as we drove around for over an hour trying to find a spot to stop. We had 4 children on our tour and all were very patient, but although no one said it, we were all freezing. We drank all the hot chocolate and 1/2 the coffee to stay warm. We got in the water twice, seeing a manatee for only a very brief moment during the second dive, which 1/2 the boat didn’t want to get back in. I don’t think any of us were prepared for how cold it was going to be, or how murky the water was. I wish we could have at least seen crystal springs and snorkeled where visibility was better. We made the best of it, but I would never do this again. Read more Written March 11, 2024
• lawbrittain 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Friendly, knowledgeable, and we saw a manatee. We did a trip on March 9 at 6:30 am. We realized that we were late in the season and may not see any manatees. Captain Mike and Kendra worked diligently to make sure that we did see a manatee. I appreciate how the groups worked together to make sure that all tours got a chance to at least get a glimpse. We realize that this is animals in their natural environment and not a Disney ride. Captain Mike and Kendra provided a lot of information and knowledge about the manatees while they were searching. We enjoyed that almost as much as the manatee. I was a little nervous while in the close quarters seeing the manatee, but Kendra was very patient with me and insured i got the best view possible while at the same time respecting the manatee's space. We will definitely schedule another trip, but next time earlier in the season. Read more Written March 10, 2024
• davidpN3863OY 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great time snorkeling with manatees! From Kari to captain Dave and Cory we had an awesome experience. Up close and personal with many many manatees. Several were very curious and were very friendly . My wife made a friend for life as one wrapped its arms around her and twirled for a few minutes. Saw adults and babies as well as many fish species! Captain Dave and the whole gang were very knowledgeable and took time to share and answer any questions. Thank you so much! Highly recommend. Read more Written March 7, 2024

More to explore in Crystal River

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer provided by Plantation Adventure Center

• Crab Island Adventure
• Snorkel Adventure
• Sunrise Sail
• Sunset Adventure
• Dolphin Adventure
• Santa Rosa Islands
• Proposal/Anniversary
• Fireworks Adventure
• Photo Gallery
• Current Weather
• Wind Forecast
• Local Regattas
• Surf Forecast
• Sailor Slang
• What makes a good sailor?
• The Ocean Race

Exclusive Catamaran Sailing Adventures

Come explore the majestic waters of the emerald coast, catamaran sailing in the emerald coast sun..

Are you visiting the Destin, Okaloosa Island, Navarre Beach area and needing a little adventure in your life? This is what you're looking for aboard catamaran Destin Sailing Adventures. The boat is a Stiletto 27 Special Edition Catamaran, designed to provide maximum sailing pleasure and performance over a wide range of wind and sea conditions. Made for adventure and racing, so it offers plenty of excitement and comfort for any occasion. The boat is outfitted with a 20hp motor, so if the wind isn't blowing we can still get out and play! Charter comes with a local captain to take you to all the local spots, while you sit back and relax.   

We offer an array of private tours, cruises, and adventures at a reasonable price. The longer you book the more fun you can have and the more money you’ll save. These are private charters, so you won’t be with a huge crowd during these unprecedented Covid 19 times. Just you and the people you bring. Come explore Crab Island, Sunset cruises, Sailing lessons, Dolphin Tour, Snorkeling, Marriage Proposals, Birthdays, sightseeing tours, Anniversary celebrations, and more with us today.    

We are dedicated to making sure you have a great time while visiting the Emerald Coast. All trips include up to 6 Guests, Licensed Captain, cooler with ice, bean bag chairs, sound system, and a head (bathroom). Our Captain has 15 years of local experience racing/sailing along the Gulf Coast of Florida and more! Please contact us for special requests such as sailing to Navarre Beach (Juana's Sailors Grill), Sandestin (Baytown Wharf),Etc. Some of the best catamaran sailing adventures Destin, Okaloosa Island, Santa Rosa Island has to offer!

Jetty East Snorkeling

Usually one of the busiest spots during the summer, so book your trip early to beat the crowds.

Snorkeling with a Manatee.

Early bird got the manatee this day!  

Spanish Mack

Up close and personal to a Spanish Mack doing its thing!

Pick up location

Adventure marina, okaloosa island.

1201A Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, USA

850-217-3448

"A ship is always safe at the shore, but that is not what it is built for."

Albert Einstein

Destin Sailing Adventures

1201B Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548, United States

Copyright © 2023 Destin Sailing Adventures - All Rights Reserved

Manatee Tours

821 S. E. Hwy 19 Crystal River, FL 34429 1-800-291-DIVE (3483) 1-352-563-0041

Crystal River Manatees

Our Florida Springs are 72 year round. Which gives Manatees a comfortable home.

The manatee tour experience with an in water guide makes the difference for a successful manatee encounter.

Visit Crystal River on a snorkel with the manatee tour to see Florida all year.

Offering 2 locations to snorkel with manatee on Crystal River and Homosassa.

Snorkel or dive the lazy Rainbow River Florida.

Discount scuba diving packages and dive the caverns.

The view is breathtaking on Manatee Tours.

Onsite scubadiving class with our indoor pool.

Just a phone call away for several guided dives.

Open water scuba class and Referral dive instruction.

Manatee Snorkel Tours / Diving at American Pro Diving Center

American Pro Diving Center offers guided Crystal River dive and snorkel Manatee tours for over 18 years in florida. Our snorkel with manatee tours are guided by in water professional divemasters and is just one of the reasons we received many awards from state and local educational systems as well as the National Geographic Dive Center Award from PADI and National Geographic. Experience manatee tours with all the comforts that a five star facility has to offer in Crystal River, Florida.

Offering 2 different locations.

Crystal River Manatee tour offers year round snorkel encounters with our gentile giants and if there are divers in the family there is something for everyone on this trip.

Homosassa Manatee tours offers a premium snorkel with less people, boats and boat traffic. These snorkel manatee tours are a must see in the winter. A perfect shallow location for a serene snorkel.

Snorkel with the Manatee success.

Our trips are successful because the dive masters educate on the manatee and the manners of being in their environment while on the manatee snorkel tours. The guides enter the water with you so that both you and the Manatees have a safe and enjoyable time even if you are new to snorkeling. This can be the experience of a lifetime on our Crystal River manatee snorkel.

What to do after your trip.

Don't forget we offer more snorkeling and diving activities in the afternoon so your Florida vacation is truly enjoyed. People come from all over the world to see the manatee but miss seeing some of the Florida springs that are in our area. Imagine a fresh water spring that has over two hundred feet of visibility and the abundance of fish and turtles make for photo opportunities. Check out more snorkel tours and save on these afternoon trips just by Contact Us.

Scuba Diving year round gives divers a dive destination unmatched by any other location in the world. Cavern spring diving and drift dives offer finds like fossils, shells, shark teeth and the water is crystal clear. Bring your digital camera or take an A.O.W. or Manatee specialty class and we offer 12 different guided dives to choose from and discount packages to save money. Whether you snorkel or dive the whole family can enjoy this vacation experience together.

Discount Lodging.

Because the tours are so early in the morning we suggest staying the night before to get a nights sleep. We offer three different lodging options Just a few miles away offering lodging at a discounted price. Relax and enjoy your stay in Florida. For your discount lodging coupon

©American Pro Diving Center. All rights reserved.

Call Toll Free: 1-800-291-3483 Email: [email protected]

THREE SISTERS SPRINGS OPENS APRIL 1ST!!!

• #1 Tour In Florida

Clear Kayak Manatee Ecotour Of Crystal River (Nov 15 – Mar 31)

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• Users Ages: Ages 3+
• Tag Weight Limit: 425 pounds per boat (two guests) and no more than 250 pounds per seat (individual)

Clear Kayak Manatee Ecotour of Crystal River, Florida

You will be journeying out to some of the most beautiful waterways in Florida in our clear kayaks with one of our amazing local guides. You will be educated on our amazing local ecosystem and be on the lookout for MANATEES!!!  You will also be viewing other various wildlife such as turtles, various birds, dolphins, and many species of fish.  Our world famous Three Sisters springs is closed during manatee season since it is a designated manatee sanctuary, but no worries, there are SEVERAL different places we go to spot manatees.  This is the NUMBER one tour in ALL of Florida during manatee season (November 15th – March 31st), so don’t miss out and reserve your spot today!

You will be learn about our extremely unique ecosystem and learn why so many manatees make Crystal River their home.

Includes ALL clear kayak, life vest, paddles, and one of our amazing LOCAL guides! Our clear kayaks are setup as tandem kayaks and can hold 420 pounds total for two riders with no person over 250 pounds in the group. All groups will be doubled up unless over the weight limit or an odd-numbered group.  We do not do allow single riders on this tour due to limited availability of clear kayaks.  If you a single rider, you may be paired with another person from a separate group if necessary.  No exceptions.

Important Information

We require that you arrive 30 minutes prior to your reservation time!  There is a short video (required by FWC) and waivers to sign before being sent out.

Your time on the water starts at your designated tour starting time. As such, if you arrive after your tour has left, you will miss your tour. Tours leave at the scheduled reservation time.  If you are late for the tour there are no refunds, cancelations, or rescheduling.  NO EXCEPTIONS!

This tour operates in Crystal River year round and per Crystal River City ordinance, there is a $5.00 per vessel launch fee that is charged at checkout.

There are no shoes allowed on our clear kayaks.  You will leave your shoes at the launch location and can put them back on at the end of the tour.

What to Bring

We recommend wearing a bathing suit, sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses, a towel, and dry clothes.