Manatees in Paradise - Crystal River, Florida

Michael R.

Great experience from start to finish with Manatees in Paradise! Booked a semi private tour (which is max of six people) and that was the perfect size tour. Initially the booking was at 3pm. But when we called to verify if this was a good time, they were helpful and recommended that we switch to 9am. They took the time to explain that the water would be colder in the morning and therefore the manatees had a higher chance of being in the springs to stay warm. This was the first of various helpful tips and fun facts about manatees that Jake and Casey shared with us. I let them know I haven’t been swimming or in water in 10-15 years so I was very nervous about this experience. Both Jake and Casey were understanding, patient and helpful throughout (so was everyone else in my tour - it was a great group). Finally, Casey had a go pro and filmed underwater and shared the amazing photos and videos with us after. This ensured I’ll never forget this once in a lifetime experience. So appreciative of both Jake and Casey and would recommend Manatees in Paradise to everyone!

Duncan G.

I did a lot of research to find the company that would provide the most intimate experience for our group of 5 and Manatees In Paradise met my expectation to a T. Our captains Derek and Jake were quite knowledgeable about the area in general and about manatee conservation. They were both very passionate about their job and it translated into an incredibly rewarding experience for the five of us.

My kids are 11 and 14 and didn’t have a lot of snorkeling experience. Jake did a great job of ensuring they were comfortable in the water and aware of how to passively observe the manatees, and there were a ton of manatees!

What a great experience!

If you’re looking for a personalized flexible tour, Manatees In Paradise is where it’s at! Thanks again, guys!

Summer J.

We had a group of 3 and visited on New Year’s Day. Derek and Jake were awesome guides and told us not only about the manatees but the area as well! Our group had an amazing time and we were able to see manatees and enjoy the springs. It wasn’t super touristy or a gimmick. It was truly seeing the animals in their own environments. Definitely would recommend doing this!

Jodi D.

This was such an amazing experience! We got very lucky and saw probably a dozen manatees (and lots of fish)!! A couple mama/baby pairs and several singletons. The water was cold, but the wetsuits made a huge difference. We also got plenty of great photos afterward. I took my own photos using a waterproof phone case, but the ones sent over were much, much better.

Casey and Jake were fantastic guides! They were clearly knowledgeable and passionate about the manatees, and they were also personable and each had a good sense of humor. They also gave us a great restaurant recommendation, where we got the best food of our week-long trip.

Another point worth considering--we passed several other manatee swimming tours who take out many more people at once, but this kind of semi-private tour with a smaller number of people at one time is much better. The water is crystal clear--UNTIL people kick up the sediment on the bottom, and it's much easier to limit the amount of sand and sediment that is kicked up with a smaller group. We initially stopped near another tour group but couldn't see anything. I assumed the water was just that cloudy, but when we actually stopped, where there were fewer swimmers in a larger space, the water really was crystal clear.

Matthew B.

Our private tour with Manatees in Paradise was an unforgettable experience! With just four of us, Capt. Jake and Casey made the trip feel personal and relaxed while ensuring we had incredible, up-close encounters. They were knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about manatee conservation, making the experience both fun and respectful of the wildlife. The clear waters and small-group setting made it even more special. Highly recommended!

My L. W.

We had an amazing time with captain Derek and Jake! They are so knowledgeable with the area and working with the manatee rescue and conservation organization. We saw so many manatees! Can’t wait to do this again!

John B.

Manatees in Paradise exceeded our expectations. My wife has wanted to swim with the Manatees for years. This group is smaller scale than other tours which we appreciated. They are very conscious of interacting with Manatees appropriately. We are just visiting their environment. Our first dive was successful. We looked face to face with a Manatee, then encountered several more. The 3 hour tour was sufficient. The crew was great. Hospitable and friendly. They explained everything in detail. Great experience.

Megan H.

We had an amazing time during our eco tour today! Captain Jake was great, very knowledgeable about the wildlife and the springs. I also can't thank them enough for squeezing us in last minute! It was a beautiful day and we saw several manatees among other wildlife. Captain Jake was even great with my 2 little kids, which made things so much easier, as this was also a homeschooling field trip! Definitely recommend these guys!