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Crystal River: Small Group Boat Tour

58 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 58 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Crystal River, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 11 (1) days in advance.

1 hour 20 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

We’re proud to be the only manatee tour company in Crystal River that’s fully owned and operated by true local natives — born and raised right here in downtown Crystal River.

As a small, owner-operated business, Go Local Manatee Tours is built on passion, experience, and a deep connection to the springs, the wildlife, and the history of this special place. We specialize in small group tours to ensure a more personal, engaging, and respectful experience for every guest.

Our tours offer more than just sightseeing — we share the rich local history, educate you about the gentle manatees, and operate with an eco-conscious mindset to help preserve the waters we call home.

Come experience Crystal River the way only a local can show you.

What's Included

  • Bottled water
  • Gratuities
  • Parking at marina (10 dollars)
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

1 Southwest 1st Place
Crystal River, FL 34429, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Explore the “Manatee Capital of the World” with us as we search for wild manatees and take in the natural beauty of Crystal River. Along the way, you might also see turtles, birds, and other native wildlife.

Our crew is Florida-born and raised, and we’re proud to be one of the only tours operated by a true Crystal River native. We’re passionate about protecting Kings Bay and sharing its story.

Tours are semi-private, with a max of six guests for a more personal, relaxed experience.

Please Note: Some tour ads use misleading photos of manatees in crystal-clear water. While that can occur, our bay is tidal and connected to the Gulf. Manatees roam freely and can be seen in many areas—especially during winter cold fronts when they seek out spring-fed waters. In warmer months, sightings are still common but typically happen in murkier open-water conditions.

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Crystal River: Small Group Boat Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

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

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-341130P2

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
58 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 58 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
58
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 11 (1) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Bottled water
  • Gratuities
  • Parking at marina (10 dollars)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers

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Activity name