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If you're looking for an unforgettable experience in Florida, kayaking with manatees in Crystal River is a must! Known for its crystal-clear waters, abundant wildlife, and, of course, the gentle giants themselves, this adventure is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
We partnered with Get Up and Go Kayaking for a clear kayak tour in Crystal River, and we’re excited to share this unique experience with you. This tour offers an up-close encounter with manatees in their natural habitat, and we’ll cover everything you need to know before you go!
Where Does the Crystal River Kayaking Tour Start?
The Crystal River Tour launches from King’s Bay, about an hour and a half north of Tampa. From there, you’ll paddle through the bay towards Three Sisters Springs, a popular gathering spot for manatees, especially in the winter months.
Our tour was led by Ryan C., an experienced and friendly guide who made the experience both fun and educational. He shared fascinating insights about the manatees, the springs, and the diverse wildlife we encountered along the way.
What to Expect on the Kayak Tour
The adventure begins at Kings Bay Park, where tours launch with small groups of up to 10 paddlers (5 double kayaks). This intimate group size allows for easy communication with the guide and a more personalized experience.
Before setting off, Ryan gave a quick beginner paddling tutorial, ensuring that even first-time kayakers felt comfortable. Once on the water, we were ready to explore!
When Is the Best Time to See Manatees in Crystal River?
Manatees migrate to Kings Bay from November to March, making winter the best time to kayak if you want to see these gentle creatures up close. Kings Bay is fed by over 70 freshwater springs, creating a warm refuge for manatees during the colder months.
As we paddled, Ryan pointed out various wildlife, including white and brown pelicans, cormorants, and turkey vultures on Bird Island.
We were surprised by how shallow the water was in some areas—at low tide, certain spots were only about a foot deep!
What Makes Kings Bay Unique?
Kings Bay is a brackish water habitat, meaning it contains a mix of fresh spring water and saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico. This creates a home for both freshwater and saltwater fish, and occasionally, you may even spot dolphins!
As we neared the Three Sisters Springs entrance, the water became even clearer, revealing the stunning blue hues of the springs and the manatees gliding beneath our kayaks.
Can You Touch the Manatees?
Since manatees are federally protected, you’re not allowed to touch them or make sudden movements while paddling. However, manatees are curious creatures and might come up to interact with you! Seeing them swim under our clear kayaks and even nudge their noses against the bottom was an incredible experience.
We spent about 25 minutes near the entrance of Three Sisters Springs, watching the manatees up close. During the summer months, when the manatees leave, kayak tours can explore the entire Three Sisters Springs, and visitors are allowed to swim or snorkel there. However, in winter, the area is closed to protect the manatees.
How Long Is the Crystal River Kayak Tour?
The tour lasted about two hours, making it perfect for all ages and experience levels. The small group size ensures you can easily hear your guide’s tips and fun facts throughout the journey.
At the end of the tour, we received a unique sticker as part of Get Up and Go Kayaking’s loyalty reward program. Collect enough, and you can redeem them for cool perks like free T-shirts or even more tours!
What Else Can You Do in Crystal River?
If you have extra time after your kayak tour, we highly recommend visiting Three Sisters Springs Park. This protected area offers a completely different perspective of the springs and the manatees.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Three Sisters Springs Park?
During manatee season, the entrance fee is $20 per person. Inside, you’ll find several boardwalks and viewing platforms that provide stunning views of the springs and the manatees gathered there. On the day we visited, we saw hundreds of manatees—an absolutely breathtaking sight!
The park does an excellent job of creating a space where you can appreciate these beautiful creatures while ensuring their conservation and safety.
Should You Book a Clear Kayak Tour?
Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, this Crystal River manatee tour is a must-do. The clear kayaks provide an unmatched view of the underwater world, and the experience of paddling alongside manatees is unforgettable.
Here's a link to book your own tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking. This is our affiliate link, which helps support our blog at no extra cost to you.
Get Up and Go Kayaking offers a variety of tours across Florida, Texas, Tennessee, and North Carolina. We’ve done three tours with them so far, and every guide we’ve had has been fantastic—we always learn something new!
Watch More Kayaking Adventures
If you enjoyed this blog and want to see another incredible Get Up and Go Kayaking tour, check out our blog on Rock Springs Run. This tour takes you through the emerald cut in Central Florida, and you won’t want to miss it!
Until next time!
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