STEM Programs in Crystal River, FL

Crystal River is home to beautiful fresh water springs, a large variety of wildlife, and or course our most famous residents - West Indian Manatees. During the Summer months, the Bay holds approximately 75 to 80 resident manatees. Each winter between 700 and 1000 manatees migrate here seeking out our three first magnitude spring systems, each with a constant temperature of 72° to 74° F (23° C). Even in the warm summer months, Crystal River has a local population of 70-100 manatees that remain here year round. Due to efforts by many local, state and federal entities, our manatee population is thriving. We feel that an in-water swim experience is an important part of this education and conservation effort. Our team of highly trained in-water guides ensure your experience with this cherished and threatened species is handled with the utmost care and respect by encouraging passive observation. With only 6 passengers per boat you are guaranteed a special small group interaction.

Explore the stunning natural beauty of Crystal River, Florida, with your eco-friendly sightseeing boat tours. Glide through crystal river and kings bay encounter gentle manatees in their natural habitat, and learn about the region’s diverse wildlife from your expert guides. Your sustainable, small-group tours offer an unforgettable experience while preserving the beauty of Florida’s unique ecosystems. Keep an eye out for other wildlife Dolphins, River otters, birds and alligators could be roaming about.

Our guided "Swim With the Manatees" tour is our number one attraction. You get the opportunity to experience manatees up close and personal in their natural habitat on colder days. Manatee season runs from November 15th through March 31st each year. We have amazing local guides who know our waters very well so you could spot several manatees in the right conditions. The colder the temperatures, the more manatees you will see. On warmer days/weeks, some tours get zero manatees because it is a natural environment and they are not always around to see. The manatees head back out to the Gulf of Mexico where the food supply is more bountiful for them. You will learn the right way to interact with these amazing animals through passive observation and learn all about our ecosystem here in Crystal River.

Join our USCG Master Captain at Fort Island Park to embark on a 90 minute tour around Kings Bay and/or The Crystal River. Explore the stunning natural beauty of The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and Kings Bay, on an intimate sightseeing eco-tour that showcases the diverse ecosystem and wildlife we have native to the area. While boating around the bay you'll have the opportunity to learn about and see The Crystal River, The Florida Manatee and many other species of wildlife that call this area their home from a true Crystal River native. This is a perfect opportunity to sit back, relax, and connect with nature. We keep our groups as a semi-private experience with a maximum of 6 guests each trip, as we find it creates a much more enjoyable and relaxed experience for everyone aboard. Our vessel is 26 feet long, fully covered, and has plenty of room for everyone aboard to get great views all around. Tours can be booked public or private and trips leave 4 times a day!

Enjoy a close, personal encounter with the West Indian Manatee as you snorkel with them under the guidance of a U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain. Our small group (no more than six guests) tours are conducted daily in the beautiful Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Get up close and personal with these amazing mammals and learn about the ecosystem and their habitat.  Unlike many tours, these Captains will actually swim with you and your group to ensure that you have a memorable experience. While in the water, your captain/tour guide will take high-definition photos and videos of you and your group which you will be able to view and purchase at the end of your trip.  Your price includes all snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, wetsuit) and complimentary coffee or hot cocoa.

Experience the natural beauty of Crystal River on a relaxing 90-minute eco cruise and sunset tour through the spring-fed waters of Kings Bay. Glide past mangrove islands, quiet coves, and crystal-clear springs as your captain shares stories about the area’s wildlife and unique ecosystem. Keep an eye out for manatees, dolphins, and a variety of coastal birds along the way. As the sun begins to set, the sky fills with vibrant colors that reflect across the calm bay, creating the perfect backdrop for photos or simply unwinding on the water. This peaceful, family-friendly tour offers a memorable way to end the day in one of Florida’s most scenic coastal landscapes.

Experience the magic of Kings Bay with our unique Sunset Cruise! Departing from our private docks at the Paddletail Waterfront Lodge, you'll first join our local expert Captain for an hour dedicated to spotting manatees and other incredible wildlife, learning about this special ecosystem. As the golden hour approaches, we'll then relax and soak in the stunning Kings Bay sunset before returning to the dock – the perfect blend of wildlife adventure and serene beauty.