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Crystal River Clear Kayak Tour – Manatee Season (Nov to March)
Pricing
Ages 12+
Ages 12+
Ages 11 & Under
Description
Observe Manatees in a 100% Clear Kayak at Crystal River, Florida!
Duration of Adventure
- 2 Hours
Location / Where to Meet
- Check in/ Departure Address: Kings Bay Park, 268 NW 3rd St, Crystal River, FL 34428
- Tours launch directly from Kings Bay Park!
- Parking: There is a $5 parking fee per vehicle, paid at the park entrance upon arrival. Arrive early to allow time for parking and check-in.
Ages & Requirements
- Available ONLY from November 15 to March 31.
- All ages are welcome!
- Children 30 lbs (13.6 kg) and under must bring their own Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
- One adult required per child under age 11 is required.
- No prior kayaking experience required — beginner friendly.
- Weight limit: 425 lbs (193 kg) per tandem (2 guests) kayak or 250 lbs (113 kg) maximum per seat (individual).
- Guests must be able to paddle with basic instruction.
- Pets are allowed as long as the weight limit is not exceeded.
- Alcohol is prohibited.
What’s Included
- 100% Clear Tandem (Two Person) Kayaks
- Coast Guard-Approved Personal Floatation Devices (PFD) – MUST bring your own Coast Guard Approved PFD for children 30 lbs (13.6 kg) and under
- Whistle (Safety Equipment)
- Dry bag to store personal items
- Expert local guide with knowledge of the area's history, ecology, and wildlife
- Guaranteed access to the best manatee-viewing spots in Kings Bay based on daily conditions
Not Included
- Gratuity - Never expected but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your guides!
- There is the option to purchase trip protection at checkout for an extra fee.
- $5 parking fee per vehicle (paid at Kings Bay Park entrance)
What to Bring / Wear
- Swimsuit or Quick-Drying, Light, Breathable Clothing
- Water shoes or sandals with straps that can get wet
- Extra Layers of Clothing - Sweatshirts and Warm Hats
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen — IMPORTANT: Do NOT apply sunscreen to the back of your legs, as it can cloud the kayak's clarity and cannot be cleaned off
- Mosquito Repellent (Please use a Deet-Free Repellent)
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Snacks & Water
- Required paperwork - Signed medical form if required, waivers, etc.
- Waterproof Camera - The company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items.
- Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that can get lost or damaged by the water.
- Note: The less gear you bring into the kayak, the better the visibility through the clear bottom!
Wildlife Guidelines
Manatees are wild, protected animals. We follow strict 'Manatee Manners' and passive observation practices to keep both guests and wildlife safe.
In Florida, paddling with manatees is only legally permitted using passive observation — never chasing, feeding, touching (unless the manatee gently initiates contact), or entering designated sanctuary areas. These rules are strictly enforced under both federal law (Marine Mammal Protection Act & Endangered Species Act) and state law (Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act). Violations can result in hefty fines or criminal penalties.
Please also be respectful of all other marine animals including sea turtles, dolphins, stingrays, and fish. Never chase, harass, feed, or touch any marine species.
Check Out Clear Kayak Crystal River Tours Here!
ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Get Up and Go Kayaking - Crystal River
FAQs
Are we guaranteed to see manatees?
Manatees are wild animals, so sightings can never be 100% guaranteed. That said, Crystal River is one of the best places in the world to see them, and during manatee season (November–March) hundreds gather in the warm spring waters of Kings Bay. Your guide will navigate to the spots where manatees are most active based on the day's conditions to maximize your chances of an incredible encounter.
What marine life can I see on this tour?
Crystal River is a wildlife wonderland! You may spot:
- West Indian Manatees — the star of the season, especially November through March
- Dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and fish including bass, snook, bluegill, mullet, and snapper
- Birds including Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Great Blue Herons, Pelicans, cormorants, and turkey vultures
- Unique underwater views of the spring-fed seagrass beds below you through the clear kayak
When is the best time to see manatees in Crystal River?
Manatee season runs November 15 through March 31, when colder Gulf waters drive hundreds of manatees into the warm, spring-fed waters of Kings Bay. During this period, sightings are highly likely. A smaller year-round resident population also lives in the area, so manatees can be spotted outside of peak season as well — though in smaller numbers.
Can I touch the manatees?
No — touching manatees is illegal under federal and state law and is strictly prohibited. Manatees are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act. The only exception is if a manatee gently initiates contact with you on its own terms.
Are manatees dangerous?
Not at all. Manatees are completely non-aggressive, gentle, and slow-moving animals. They have no sharp teeth and their typical reaction to being startled is simply to swim away. They are often curious and may swim right up to your kayak — but remember to look and not touch. Enjoy the magic of the moment!
Are there alligators in the water?
Alligators live throughout Florida, but they are rarely seen in Crystal River's clear, spring-fed waters where manatee tours take place. The springs are active with people and boats, which makes them an unlikely spot for gators to linger. If you happen to see one (very unlikely), calmly paddle away and alert your guide.
What other wildlife will we encounter in Crystal River?
Along with manatees, you may see small schools of snappers, spotted bass, mullet, and other fish that make Kings Bay home. You may also spot large tarpon fish, stingrays, and skates along the bottom. The area is also rich in bird life, and sightings of dolphins are always a bonus treat!
Can I bring my camera?
Yes! Waterproof cameras and phones in waterproof cases are welcome. Keep in mind the company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items, so use caution near the water.
What sunscreen can I use, and why does it matter?
This is very important for two reasons: reef safety and kayak clarity! Please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Use reef-safe mineral sunscreen with non-nano particles. Additionally — and this is critical — do NOT apply sunscreen to the back of your legs. It eats away at the kayak's transparency and cannot be cleaned off. Consider wearing a sun-protective rash guard as an alternative.
Cancellation Policy
- All Sales Final: Once booked, all sales are final, and no cancellations are permitted unless specified otherwise. Trip protection is an available add on option for more flexibility.
- Unsafe Weather: In the event of unsafe weather, we offer the option to reschedule or provide a full refund.
- We STRONGLY suggest adding Trip Protection to your booking. You may cancel or make changes to your booking for any reason, up to 12 hours prior to your tour time. Select "Trip Protection" at the time of booking.
Availability
Reviews
Location
Address
1610 SE Paradise Circle
Crystal River, FL, 34429
US
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