During winter, the Florida Manatee (also known as sea cows) migrate to Crystal River, Florida because water temperatures below 68⁰ Fahrenheit stress manatees. They lack fat to help keep them warm and insulated. In order to stay warm during the winter months (November - March) they use Florida's spring water. 

The springs have a constant temperature of around 72°F/22°F. They use Kings Bay in Crystal River, FL where there are over 70 spring vents throughout the 6oo acre bay as a sanctuary for extended periods of time in the winter. Some of the best-known springs are Three Sisters Spring, Main (or Kings) Spring, Hunters Spring, Jurassic Spring, and House Spring, but there are many more springs that help host a growing manatee population. 

Manatees move around throughout the bay depending on a variety of factors. Here's what you need to know in order to make the best of your visit to the Crystal River area.

1. Best Season to Visit

When is manatee season in Crystal River, Florida?

Manatee season in Crystal River, Florida officially lasts from November 15th through March 31st. During this time manatees migrate to our area and there are sanctuaries in place to give manatees areas to rest while they visit the warm waters of King's Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The manatees come and go throughout these months, with the largest number of manatees visiting during the coldest days and very few manatees in the area during the warmer days. The peak of the season is generally during the month of January and February, this is when you have the greatest chance of seeing the most amount of manatees. 

What about the other seasons?

We are still able to swim with manatees in Crystal River during the summer months because of the ongoing water restoration projects by Save Crystal River. These projects have been instrumental in creating a sustainable amount of eelgrass in the crystal river region that allows manatees to stay close rather than migrate out of the area to find food. 

What is the toughest season to swim with manatees?

Late March is the toughest time to swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida. This is because as the weather warms, huge numbers of manatees begin to disperse from the area Additionally, the manatees that remain in the area are tired from a long, cold winter and are busy feeding to establish their healthy summer weight. 

Additional stress is put on the manatees during this time due to spring break and larger numbers of people enjoying the refreshing spring water in King's Bay. Therefore, it is important for visitors to be mindful of the manatees and respect their space when swimming in the area during this time. Although the number of manatees is reduced at this time, it is still possible to observe and swim with the animals in their natural habitat but pack your patience. 

2. What is the best time of year to swim with manatees?

Early November is in our opinion the best time to swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida. Even though there are fewer manatees in the area, the water temperature is still warm and the manatees have just begun to congregate in the area. Upon arrival to the area, the manatees are curious and friendly, making it easier to spot and interact with them. Additionally, the area is teeming with other wildlife such as dolphins, turtles, and fish, making the experience even more enjoyable. Swimming with manatees in early November is a great way to experience the animals up close before the peak of manatee season.

Best Time of day to Visit

Which day of the week is best?

The best day of the week for swimming with manatees is Monday - Thursday, it's less crowded and quieter on the waterways. It tends to be less busy than on the weekends, which means that visitors have more time to observe and appreciate the manatees in their natural habitat.

What is the best time of day?

The best time of day to swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida is typically early in the morning. This is because the manatees are more active during this time and are easier to spot. Additionally, the water is typically calm in the mornings, making it easier to observe and interact with the manatees.

Will I still see manatees in the late afternoon?

Most likely! Visitors can still see manatees in the late afternoon in Crystal River, Florida. This is because the manatee population doesn't change drastically throughout the day. However, it is important to note that the manatees behave differently in the late afternoon. They are more likely to be found on the move, eating, or sleeping, and less likely to be interactive.

3. the Best way to swim with manatees

What options do I have?

Visitors who want to swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida have several options. One of the most popular options is to take a tour with one of the local tour operators. Many local companies offer tours that provide visitors with the opportunity to observe and interact with manatees in their natural habitat while following all the rules set forth by Florida Wildlife Service. Alternatively, visitors can also rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the area on their own and hopefully run into one of these gentle giants along the way. 

Can I go on my own?

While it is legal to swim with manatees on your own in Crystal River, it’s not recommended. You have to have all the correct gear and know where to go, and how to act. Manatees are protected by federal laws and if you violate the laws and regulations you may be liable for huge fines or jail time. A tour operator provides everything you need, the expertise of where to go, and the knowledge to keep you out of trouble! Why take the chance?

Why is a guided tour better?

A guided tour in Crystal River, Florida typically offers visitors the opportunity to observe and interact with manatees in their natural habitat by exploring the area via pontoon boat. During the tour, visitors will receive a brief overview of the animals and rules before suiting up in a wetsuit and heading out on a boat. More information will be shared while cruising to your destination all the while watching to spot manatees. 

Once the perfect spot has been found, you will have a chance to enter the water and swim with the manatees. Most tours will also take pictures of your experience. Joining a guided tour is the best way to ensure that you are behaving correctly around these amazing mammals. 

4. Best place to swim with manatees

Where can I swim with manatees?

In Citrus County, visitors can legally swim with manatees. The most popular places are in Crystal River, but some people also visit Homosassa. Visitors should be aware that there are rules and regulations which must be followed when swimming with manatees. Failure to follow these rules can result in fines and penalties. Therefore, visitors should be sure to familiarize themselves with the rules before entering the water.

How do I swim with manatees in Three Sisters Springs?

In order to swim with manatees in Three Sisters Springs, the most well-known spring in the area, visitors must first determine if the springs are open for swimmers. The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission closes Three Sisters Springs when the Gulf of Mexico is below 62 degrees to all in-water access so the manatees can rest undisturbed. 

If the springs are open and you wish to join a manatee tour, you will need to seek out a tour operator that holds a special use permit from the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. This permit will allow the tour company to access Three Sisters Springs when they are open. It’s important to keep in mind that not all tours go to Three Sisters Springs. Tour companies take you where the experience will be the best and with 600 acres within King's Bay, there are many options!

If the springs are open and you don't wish to join a manatee tour, you will need to rent a kayak or boat because there is no water access from the land at Three Sisters Springs. Once you've reached the water entrance to the springs, you will need to anchor your vessel and swim up the small channel into the springs. 

Where is the best place to swim with manatees?

That all depends on the conditions. As the weather, the tide, the temperature, and the number of people visiting change, the best place to swim changes too! You may visit Three Sisters Springs and see one sleeping manatee, but on the other side of the bay, there are 20+ chewing on ladder ropes and rolling on their backs! 

The knowledge of where to go is a secret that guides have spent years learning, and you're best off finding yourself a reputable one and letting them decide where to take you. Keep in mind though, they are still wild manatees, and even a guided tour cab struggle on a tough day!

5. Best behavior while swimming with manatees

Are manatees protected by laws?

Yes, manatees are protected by several laws. The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973 make it illegal to harass, hunt, capture, or kill any marine mammal. 

Additionally, the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978 prohibits any person from intentionally or negligently annoying, molesting, harassing, or disturbing any manatee. By following these laws, visitors can help to ensure the safety and protection of the manatees.

Are there rules to follow while swimming with manatees?

Yes, to avoid harassing manatees its important to follow these guidelines:

DO NOT:

• give food to manatees

• use water to attract manatees to your boat, dock, or marina (etc.) where manatees may be harmed

• separate a cow and her calf

• disturb manatee mating herds

• pursue manatees or chase them from warm water sites

• disturb resting manatees

• hit, injure, or harm manatees

• jump on, stand on, hold on to, or ride manatees

• grab or kick manatees

• block a manatee's path if one or more moves toward you

• hunt or kill manatees

• use your vessel to pursue or harass manatees

• "fish" for or attempt to hook or catch manatees

How should I behave around manatees?

Let the manatees come to you! Practicing passive observation, holding back, and allowing the manatees to approach you first prevents unintentional harassment or disturbance. Manatees are very curious animals and will often approach you once they are comfortable. If they decide to approach you, the best course of action is to freeze and float. The less you move around them, the longer they will stay with you because they think you're one of them.

Don't miss this unforgettable experience

Swimming with manatees in Florida is a uniquely Florida experience. From timing your visit just right to understanding the rules protecting manatees, there is a lot of planning that goes into a successful trip. By following the above tips, visitors can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience when swimming with manatees in Florida. If you want to leave the planning to the pros, then look no further than River Ventures. A River Ventures Tour is the perfect way to explore the area and create memories to last a lifetime. Don't miss out - book your tour today!