- Orlando, Florida
- 8 hr 30 min
- Airboats & Wildlife
- Free cancellation
About this experience
Come and enjoy the real Florida! Get up-close with the gentle manatee and see the beauty of Crystal River as you explore the Homosassa State Wildlife Park. The tour heads up to Crystal River where you can snorkel or swim in the rivers where wild manatees live. It's an early morning departure, so bring breakfast snacks to eat during the journey.
Following a safety briefing and collecting your mask, snorkel & fins (wetsuit hire is $15 and required for swimmers) you board the boat. When manatees are spotted you can get into the river for great photos. If you prefer, you can opt to simply enjoy the boat ride while enjoying nature.
In the afternoon explore Homosassa State Park. The park is home to many species of rescued native wildlife. If you purchase the Florida Adventure Tour fully inclusive option, you will also ride a Wild Airboat Ride on a river to spot the alligators and nature and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Our take
A full-day trip to Crystal River, one of the few places in the U.S. where you can legally swim near wild manatees, with Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, lunch and hotel pickup included.
Best for
- Confident swimmers
- Bucket-list travelers
- Winter visitors
Skip it if
You are not comfortable in open water or want a short day.
Tips before you book
- Expect a very early start; bring breakfast snacks.
- Follow the passive observation rules; touching manatees is illegal.
- Winter offers the best manatee encounters.
How it compares
| Experience | Rating | From | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manatee Snorkeling Adventure Tour with Lunch & Hotel Pickup (this tour) | 4.7 (282) | $169 | 8 hr 30 min |
| Silver Springs Kayak Tour - Best price, Best Gear, Free Photos | 5.0 (186) | $39.50 | 2 hr 15 min |
| Glass Bottom Kayak Eco Tour through Rainbow Springs | 4.9 (963) | $89 | 2 hours |
| Silver Springs Clear Kayak Manatee, Monkey & Wildlife Adventures | 4.9 (659) | $64 | 2 hours |
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