The Swim With Manatees blog
Manatee behavior, river seasons and trip planning from Captain Gene Parker and a crew that has worked the Homosassa River since 2000.
August 7, 2026
By Captain Gene Parker
When is manatee season in Florida? A month-by-month look at manatee numbers, water and crowds in Crystal River and Homosassa, and why cold days matter most.
July 5, 2026
By Captain Gene Parker
The best places to see wild manatees in Florida from land, from Blue Spring to Apollo Beach to Homosassa, with seasons, hours and fees for each.
June 19, 2026
By Captain Gene Parker
A visitor's guide to Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park: the underwater observatory, manatee programs, hours, fees, and whether you can swim there.
May 10, 2026
By Captain Gene Parker
Things to do in Homosassa, Florida, from state parks and Monkey Island to paddling the Chassahowitzka, summer scallop season and day trips on the Nature Coast.
April 22, 2026
By Captain Gene Parker
Typical shared and private manatee tour prices in Crystal River and Homosassa, what should be included, and the extra fees worth asking about before you book.
March 1, 2026
By Captain Gene Parker
Can kids swim with manatees? What age works, how the gear and floating work, private vs shared boats, and how to help children enjoy a calm
Small boats, six guests, captains who teach. Pick a tour and we'll handle the rest.
Book your manatee tour
Every tour is a small boat with six guests or fewer. Choose a tour to see dates and times.
Private
$450 per boat, up to 6
Groups up to 24 on 4 boats
Departs 7, 10 and 1
Private, more water time
$585 per boat, up to 6
Groups up to 24 on 4 boats
Departs 8 AM and 1 PM
Private, lunch included
$999 per boat, up to 6
Groups up to 24 on 4 boats
Departs 8 AM
Not sure which one? Compare the tours
More than six in your group? Call 352-257-8687
