CRYSTAL RIVER BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Eight Hours Between Gentle Giants and Gulf Scallop Beds — Crystal River’s Manatee Swim & Scallop Charter
A private Explorida charter that pairs a guided in‑water manatee encounter in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge with scallop diving and on‑board shucking; this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Eight Hours Between Gentle Giants and Gulf Scallop Beds — Crystal River’s Manatee Swim & Scallop Charter.
Embark on an eight‑hour, all‑inclusive charter that begins with close, guided encounters with Florida manatees in the federally protected waters of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and then runs downriver and out to the seagrass scallop grounds of the Gulf, where you’ll snorkel, dive for bay scallops and have them shucked for you.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Guided in‑water manatee encounters
You’ll be paired with an expert in‑water guide who assists throughout the manatee swim in the federally protected refuge, helping keep the encounter safe and memorable.
Scallop diving, scooping and shucking
After the manatee portion the trip moves to the scallop grounds where guides show you how to scoop bay scallops; the crew will even shuck your haul and can share recipes or local restaurants to prepare them.
USCG master captain and in‑water guides
The excursion runs from a USCG‑certified vessel with a Master Captain aboard and an in‑water guide/scalloper to assist with snorkeling, diving and limits—making the day both instructional and hands‑on.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You’ll check in at Explorida’s downtown gift shop, board a USCG‑certified vessel with your captain and in‑water guide, slip into wetsuits for a measured, guided approach to the manatees in the refuge, then run downriver and out to shallow gulf seagrass where you snorkel and dive to scoop scallops—ending with the crew shucking your catch and stowing it on ice for the trip home.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter is best for — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Soft‑sided coolers/insulated bags only; lunch, snacks and beverages (no glass); non‑aerosol sunscreen; hats, sunglasses, sunshirts/rashguards; towels. Note: glasses cannot be worn under your mask; contacts are suggested.
Fishing license for all, wetsuits for the manatee swim, mask/snorkel/fins, scallop bags, coolers with ice, bottled water, USCG Master Captain and in‑water guide/scalloper are included.
Check in at the Explorida gift shop in downtown Crystal River, use facilities and complimentary refreshments before being shuttled to the docks; operators recommend minimizing the number of vehicles due to limited parking.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the charter?
The charter runs approximately 8 hours.
What is included with the trip?
The trip includes a fishing license for all, wetsuits for the manatee swim, mask/snorkel/fins, scallop bags, coolers with ice, bottled water, a USCG Master Captain and an in‑water guide/scalloper.
Are there age or group size limits?
The offering notes ages 3 and up; the charter is private with published rates by group size and a maximum number of guests per boat.
How experienced do I need to be to scallop?
Scallop diving requires snorkeling and repeated dives to about 5–8 feet on average and is recommended for more experienced swimmers.
How many scallops can we keep?
Recreational scallop limits are 2 gallons per person, with no more than 10 gallons per boat; this typically yields about a pint of meat per person.
Where do I meet the operator and what about parking?
Meet at EXPLORIDA, 545 N Citrus Ave, Crystal River; park in the public parking area, check in at the front desk and use facilities before being shuttled to the docks—operators recommend minimizing vehicles as parking is limited.
Can I wear my glasses under the mask?
Glasses cannot be worn under your mask; contacts are suggested.