Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Sightseeing Cruise | 1 hour 30 minutes

66 Reviews | Crystal River
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Adult (18-65) Minimum: 1, Maximum: 12
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Youth (11-17) Minimum: 0, Maximum: 12
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Child (2-10) Minimum: 0, Maximum: 12
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Free Cancellation For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Inclusions / Exclusions

  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English
  • Tour Boats are covered to provide shade.
  • USCG Inspected Tour Boats
  • 1.5 Hour Narrated Boat Tour
  • USCG Licensed Captain & Guide
  • Sunglasses - Polarized lenses are best for seeing into the water.
  • Binoculars are available for rental - Adult $12 / Child $6
  • Parking Fees

Overview

Embark on a captivating guided wildlife boat tour that promises adventure, education, and unforgettable viewing of King's Bay. As you step aboard, you'll be greeted by our expert captain and knowledgeable naturalist guide, who will serve as your hosts for the duration of the 1.5-hour excursion. One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to encounter the beloved Florida manatees in their natural habitat. These fascinating creatures can be encountered year round in Crystal River. You'll have the chance to observe these magnificent mammals up close, learning about their behaviors, habitat, and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them. Our expert guide will point out an array of bird species that call this area home, from majestic bald eagles to elegant herons. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, photographer or simply seeking a memorable outdoor adventure, our guided wildlife boat tours promise an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Meeting points

Pete's Pier Marina. Please check in for your tour at the "See Crystal River" office located in Unit C of the big blue building in the center of the parking lot. You will find our office at the rear of the building on the first floor, look for the signs. If you have any trouble just give us a call.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

  • Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge (Pass By)

    The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is a manatee sanctuary nestled in the heart of Florida's Nature Coast. Spanning over 80 acres, this refuge is a haven for an array of wildlife, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the region's natural wonders. One of the refuge's most enchanting features is its resident population of West Indian manatees. These gentle giants, often referred to as "sea cows," seek refuge in the warm spring waters of Crystal River during the winter months, making it one of the premier destinations for manatee viewing in the United States. A resident herd of 40-60 manatees make the refige home year round. Beyond the manatees, the refuge is home to a diverse array of bird species, including herons, egrets, ospreys, and bald eagles. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot these majestic creatures as they soar overhead or wade through the shallows in search of food. Join us on a boat safari into this amazing preserve and see for yourself.

Sample Menu

Additional Info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants are considered passengers by the USCG and require a ticket.

Free Cancellation

June 18100% refund
June 19No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews

4.9

66 reviews

Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
  • 5 stars
    62
  • 4 stars
    3
  • 3 stars
    0
  • 2 stars
    1
  • 1 star
    0

Reviews by TravelOne travelers

Showing 1-5 of 62 reviews with 5 stars

Great experience

Published on Jan, 2025

Great boat tour! Our guide was very knowledgeable about the area and wildlife. She was pleasant and friendly and provide a wealth of information. The boat was extremely comfortable and the ride was amazing. All the information we received about booking and trip was clear and concise.

Boat with the BEST!

Published on Jan, 2025

We were originally supposed to have snorkeled with their sister company, Fun2Dive, but had to cancel due to a medical procedure. We were so disappointed but when I called to cancel, I was told about this boat tour. We were very excited that we would still be able to get up close with these gentle creatures! This trip did not disappoint! Our captain, Alyssa, made our experience absolutely wonderful! Not only did we see soooo many manatees, we learned a lot about them! She was knowledgeable, professional and personable. Also, the boat was super clean and the perfect set-up for walking around and viewing the river from all angles. We may not have been face-to-face with the sea cows, but this was the next best thing! Thank you for a great time that won’t ever be forgotten!

Highly recommended this. Great way to see the manatees.

Published on Jan, 2025

Awesome boat tour! We saw lots of manatees a turtle and a couple of dolphins. The boat was very comfortable and the captain was great. Good time for all. I highly recommend this cruise.

Great trip

Published on Jan, 2025

We saw many manatees and lots of info was shared with us. Our captain was very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. It was a great day!

It was a great tour. The...

Published on Jan, 2025

It was a great tour. The area is beautiful. We saw so many manatees. The boat tour instructor was very friendly and informative.

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