We’re glad you’re eager to visit Crystal River responsibly — and we know the manatees are too!

Swimming with manatees and seeing them up close can be a moving, life-changing experience. These gentle giants are truly one of nature’s most incredible species, as well as one of its most vulnerable. In fact, the Florida manatee is legally classified as “threatened” under the Endangered Species Act.

That’s why it’s critical that you know the proper way to share the water with them — not only for your safety, but theirs as well. Here are some simple tips that will deliver a respectful, responsible encounter you’ll treasure forever.

Swimming with Manatees 101

Protecting the waters isn’t the responsibility of one person or one organization.
It’s something we all contribute to.

Choose a path below to see how you can make a difference as part of the Manatee
Approved Eco-Compliant Partner Program — whether you’re visiting our community,
living here, or operating a local business in Citrus County.

Respect Their Space

Manatees may be gentle and curious, but they’re also protected wildlife. Let them choose whether to approach you and never chase or surround them. The best encounters happen when you simply float near them quietly and let the experience unfold.

Float, Don’t Swim

Move slowly and calmly through the water. Avoid splashing, kicking, or making sudden movements that could startle a manatee. Floating quietly leads to the most memorable interactions.

Never Touch, Ride or Feed a Manatee

As tempting as it may be, remember that touching, riding, holding onto, or feeding manatees is harmful to them. More importantly, it’s actually prohibited by law. Let them behave naturally and simply enjoy the moment.

Observe Mothers and Calves Carefully

Give them extra space and never position yourself between a mother and her baby.

Protect Their Habitat

Avoid standing on seagrass or disturbing the natural spring environment. Healthy springs provide the food and warm, clean water manatees rely on during cooler months.

Follow Your Guide’s Instructions

Discover Crystal River’s Manatee Approved Eco-Compliant Partners are experts in creating safe, respectful wildlife encounters. Following their directions helps protect you, the manatees, and the environment they call home.

Keep Voices Low

Quiet conversations and calm behavior help create a peaceful environment where manatees are more likely to remain relaxed and continue their natural activities.

Take Only Photos

Capture incredible memories with your camera—but leave nothing behind except bubbles. Respect the wildlife and help preserve our beautiful springs for future generations of both humans and manatees!

Discover Crystal River’s Manatee Approved Eco-Compliant Partners

As the Manatee Capital of the World®, we have a responsibility to make sure any encounters with these majestic animals are safe, sustainable, and beneficial to the environment.

That’s why created The Manatee Approved Eco-Compliant Partner Program. It recognizes Citrus County tour operators who demonstrate outstanding environmental stewardship, guest education, and safety practices that protect our water, wildlife and ecosystem.

To ensure a visit that combines fun and education with meaningful conservation, plan your manatee experience with one of the area’s Manatee Approved Partners listed below.