Crystal River, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is known as one of the best destinations in the world for swimming with manatees. Its clear, spring-fed waters stay around 72°F year-round, attracting large numbers of manatees, especially during winter. Perfect for passive snorkeling experiences, the calm waters provide ideal conditions for observing manatees without disturbing their natural behavior.
In this blog, we’ll cover why Crystal River is the top destination for manatee encounters and what makes it unique. We’ll also explain what to expect on a typical tour, from check-in to in-water viewing.
Why Crystal River Is the Best Place To Swim With Manatees
Here are the key reasons why Crystal River is the best place for swimming with manatees:
Largest Natural Manatee Refuge in the U.S.
Crystal River is home to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, the only refuge in the U.S. created specifically to protect manatees. The area provides a safe, federally protected environment where the gentle giants can rest, feed, and stay warm, especially in colder months.
Year-Round Manatee Presence
Thanks to its consistently warm waters, the location supports a resident population of manatees annually. During the winter, hundreds of additional manatees migrate here to escape colder coastal waters, making it the best time for in-water encounters.
Legal and Regulated In-Water Interaction
Crystal River is one of the few places in Florida where swimming with manatees is legally allowed. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service strictly regulates these interactions. Visitors must attend a briefing and follow rules that promote passive observation to ensure a safe and respectful experience.
Clear and Warm Spring Water
The area’s natural springs, especially places like Three Sisters Springs, provide crystal-clear visibility and a constant water temperature. This makes it easier to see manatees in their natural habitat and stay comfortable while snorkeling.
Wide Range of Tour Options
Crystal River offers guided tours for all experience levels, including small-group eco-tours, sunrise trips, and private charters. Most operators provide all the necessary gear and instruction, making the experience accessible for beginners, families, and even non-swimmers.
What To Expect on a Manatee Tour
You can look forward to the following when swimming with manatees:
Check-in and Briefing
Your tour will begin at the operator’s facility, where you’ll check in, sign waivers, and get sized for gear. Before departure, all participants must watch a short video by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, outlining proper manatee etiquette.
Boat Ride to the Springs
After the briefing, your group will board a small tour boat and head to one of the manatee hotspots. These areas are known for their warm temperatures and frequent manatee activity. The boat ride is often scenic and may include commentary from your guide about the local wildlife and conservation efforts.
Gear Preparation
Once you arrive at the spring site, your guide will help you gear up. Most tours provide a wetsuit, snorkel, mask, and sometimes a pool noodle or flotation device for added comfort. The wetsuit keeps you warm in the spring water and helps with buoyancy, which supports the passive viewing approach.
Passive In-Water Viewing
In-water viewing is considered the heart of the tour. You’ll float on the surface, using your snorkel and mask to look below for manatees. The key here is passive observation — you let the manatees come to you. Touching, chasing, or hovering directly over them stresses the animals and is prohibited.
Guided Supervision
Throughout the in-water portion of the tour, a certified guide will accompany the group to ensure everyone follows the rules and stays safe. They help spot manatees, adjust gear, and support those who need assistance in the water.
Tour Duration and Return
Depending on the operator, most manatee tours last 2.5 to 3.5 hours. This includes check-in, gear fitting, boat travel, and 30 to 90 minutes in the water. The boat will return to the dock, and you’ll have time to dry off, return your gear, and ask questions or view photos.
Swimming With Manatees? Book Your Tour With Bird’s Underwater!
Encountering manatees in their natural environment is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a deep connection with nature. Join Bird’s Underwater for an adventure that supports responsible wildlife tourism!
Looking to swim with manatees? Explore our manatee tours to book a trip!