Clear Kayak Three Sisters Springs & Manatee Tour Of Crystal River
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Crystal River, USA
- 2 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Hop into a completely clear kayak on the Crystal River and Three Sisters Springs where you have the chance to spot manatees, turtles, otters, and more on this small-group kayaking tour. Paddle your way around Three Sisters Spring and enjoy all the beauty of it clear, colorful water without getting wet
- See marine life from all angles in a clear kayak
- Paddle to the best spots along the Crystal River
- Look for pelicans, tarpon, manatees, dolphins, and more
- Enjoy the intimate experience of a small-group tour
What's Included
- Clear Kayak, Life Vest, Paddle
- Amazing Local Guide
- Gratuity For Tour Guides
- launch fee to paid on site$7.50 per person
- Parking Fee to be paid onsite$10.00 per booking
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- 1 SW 1st Pl, Crystal River, FL 34429, USA
Your building is located on the right side of Pete's Pier Marina at 1 SW 1st Place, Crystal River FL 34429. Must arrive 30 minutes early to complete check-in process.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
1
Three Sisters Springs
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- Maximum weight of 250 pounds for any rider and 420 pounds for 2 riders
- You will be paired with another rider in your party to accommodate maximum participants unless an odd number in your party
- You must arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled start time or the tour will leave without you with no refund given.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Stephanie_G
As first time kayakers and a little nervous our tour guide Jax was wonderful. We did get to see a few Manatees and even a baby gator along with lots of other wildlife on our way to the springs.
The springs are beautiful and well worth the visit.
Absolutely fantastic time, would definitely reccomed.
Reviews
4.5
based on 250 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Robert_D, Jul 2026
Going from the bay into the springs is a very good workout. And especially if it's windy. Getting in and out of the kayaks are a little bit interesting Make sure you listen to your guide. And even though it was 95 outside it was still chilly 72 water
Tamara_C, Jul 2026
We totally enjoyed our afternoon of kayaking. The tour was well run and sign in was easy with just a waiver to sign for each member of our party and a short video to watch. Our tour guide Ayanna was a joy! She was engaging, informative and made sure we had the best experience! We only saw one manatee as it wasn’t the “season” but she made sure we got the best view and pictures possible while respecting the animal in its natural surroundings. After that we swam in the crystal clear water of the river, a welcome break from kayaking in the sun on a 95 degree day. Ayanna also took lots of pictures of us as a family that were available to purchase at a reasonable price. Would highly recommend this tour as a departure from theme parks, shopping and busy beaches. In total it took approximately 2.5 hours.
LaTonia_W, Jul 2026
My daughters (26 and 24) neice (13) and I were SO excited to wrap up our week in Florida at Three Sister Springs....but Mother Nature had other plans. We went out on the water because we expected the rain yo come down hard for 10 minutes and then clear out (typical Florida weather) but we ended up sitting under a bridge for about 30 minutes before just calling it because the lightning and thunder wasn't letting up. The reason for thr 5 stars?
Booking was easy,
The price was fair,
We were running late but they still worked with us,
Our guide, Ms. Jax I believe, was wonderful,
They sent someone out to 'rescue' us so we didny have yo choose between paddling back or staying under the bridge waiting for the weather to clear,
They offered other times or extended time (we couldnt, we had a BBQ to get to and were hitting the road back to Alabama the next morning),
I asked for a discount but they reached out to Viator to refund us.
The 5 stars is because the experience OUTSIDE of the weather (which they could not control) was great enough that as we were driving away, looking like drowned rats, all 4 of us said our FIRST stop when we come back to Florida will be Crystal River to go clear kayaking!
Christine_L, Jul 2026
I was unsure about doing this experience, considering my daughter and I are not outdoorsy. Have to say we loved it from checkin to the very end. Fabio was an awesome and patient guide. We enjoyed seeing the fish and turtles and the momma Manatee and her baby. Will definitely bring my daughter and her sports team next year when we are in town.
Debbie_R, Jun 2026
Our guide at Clear Kayak Paddling was Jax. While she was a wealth of knowledge and I still had a great time, I felt it could have been better. You have to paddle out a mile to get out of the marina to get to the Three Sisters Spring. Jax kept stopping, alot to talk about random things that could have been left out on the way. I do understand you have to stop some to tell people which direction and all that. But one time she literally said, You can't just stop, keep paddling, and then 1 second later said wait, we need to stop, and then, come on paddle. And then we would end up having the other people crash into us because she stopped. Like I said, some stopping is completely understandable, but it was excessive. It took almost half the time alotted (45 to 50 minutes to paddle to the spring - i looked at my clock).
Once we got to the spring, we did see 1 manatee and I felt she did a great job getting us close enough to see it. Then she asked if we wanted to swim, and we all did, so it was awesome swimming in the spring! We saw mullet, sheepshead, minnows, and the water was beautiful. On the way back it went much quicker and she did let us stay out a bit longer because she didn't have a tour after ours. So I felt like it did improve alot, and I ended up really enjoying it. All in all, I would recommend it because it's great experience.
Michael_D, Jun 2026
Had a great experience. The guide was fantastic. The springs were clear to the bottom. Would definitely do it again.
Christian_T, Jun 2026
Excellent trip with an excellent tour guide. Kyle with a smile was great!!! Saw manatee and her baby and lotsa wildlife!
Response from Host, Jun 2026
That’s an unforgettable sighting—seeing a mama and baby out there is pure magic! So glad you had such a great trip and enjoyed all the wildlife 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Vickie_S, Jun 2026
I booked this trip for myself, 23 yr old daughter and 8 yr old son. When we got there there was another family buying tickets who also had an odd number so they put one of those family members in my kayak. For 2 hours instead of me being able to enjoy this experience with my kids I was stuck with a 70 yr old grandma who showed signs of dementia. She was a sweet lady but I didnt book this trip to spend time baby sitting someone else's grandma. This ruined my entire experience and I feel like was a total waste of my money. Instead of being able to enjoy this as family or just being able to relax I was constantly getting us out of rocks or situations she put us in. It was the absolute worst kayaking experience I've ever had!
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Sitter to hear that, but we ALWAYS double up passengers when possible. The clear kayaks are tough to paddle as one person and either you or your 23 year old daughter most likely would have had a similar experience on your own.
Instead of blasting us with a one star review, why didn’t you say anything at the end when the tour was over? Our staff inside AND the guide asks our guests EVERY single time to make sure you enjoyed yourself.
We could have handled it on the spot if you would have said something.
Please come back to join us on the house for a tour on regular kayaks this winter during manatees season.
Richard_W, May 2026
Loved this experience with my family. Kyle (with a smile) was our guide and could have been better. Very knowledgeable of the area and animals (and also gave us a great recommendation for lunch). So much fun and would absolutely do this again!
Response from Host, May 2026
Sounds like such a fun family day out there—great wildlife and even a perfect lunch spot after! So glad you had an awesome experience and we’d love to have you back 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Louise_D, May 2026
Great experience kayaking at 3 Sisters at Crystal Springs. We chose a clear kayak. We had a super day and although it’s off season for seeing manatees we were lucky to see a mamma and baby in the spring. We had a super guide Jax who was very informative
Response from Host, May 2026
Seeing a mom and baby in the spring is such a special moment—especially in the off season! So glad you had a super day out there 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Gary_R, May 2026
Three Sisters Springs! So clear, and cold and refreshing after kayaking and seeing so many manatees up close and serene. I don’t swim in natural waters only pools, but the Springs…so inviting and so natural! Beautiful! Highlight of our trip. Definitely coming back to this particular vendor. Great people, friendly, knowledgeable guide.
Response from Host, May 2026
That’s such a special moment—when the springs pull you in even if you don’t usually swim in natural water! So glad it was the highlight of your trip and we can’t wait to have you back 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Hannah_L, May 2026
This was an awesome experience! Guide was knowledgeable and helpful in finding manatees! Swimming at the springs was so nice!
Response from Host, May 2026
Sounds like the perfect mix—finding manatees and cooling off in the springs! So glad you had such an awesome experience 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Dana_D, May 2026
We had an incredible experience doing the clear kayak Crystal river tour. Our tour guide, Kyle with a Smile was very interactive and made the tour very enjoyable. We saw manatees, turtles, fish and a gator. Highly recommend!
Response from Host, May 2026
What an incredible mix of wildlife to see out there—manatees, turtles, fish, and a gator is a full lineup! So glad you had such an enjoyable experience and we truly appreciate the recommendation 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Holly_H, May 2026
Clear kayaking tours were great. We were so fortunate to see Mantatee's even though it was out of season.Our guide Jas was attentive to the whole group. She was knowledgeable and personable.
Response from Host, May 2026
So glad you were able to see manatees even out of season—that always makes it extra special! Sounds like a great time all around 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Robert_B, Apr 2026
Our guide was very informative. It was beautiful scenery and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. I would definitely recommend this outfit to others.
Response from Host, May 2026
Beautiful scenery and a great guide make for the perfect day out there—so glad you thoroughly enjoyed it! We truly appreciate the recommendation 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Jessica_K, Apr 2026
Make sure to wear a lot of sunscreen. All the guides are great. We saw almost 14 manatees, but that was very rare. The swim in the springs about 3/4 way through the tour was absolutely worth it. Make sure you go in, and perhaps bring a change of clothes and a towel.
Response from Host, May 2026
Sounds like an incredible day out there—seeing that many manatees is definitely special! Great tips too, and we’re so glad you enjoyed the swim in the springs 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
CHRISTINE_B, Apr 2026
It was a cool experience and amazing to see manatees in their natural habitat. We went in late April so the population wasn't as large as it would be in the colder months. We were still able to see a couple of manatees but not in the clear waters. My biggest complaint is that the tourism is too much. As soon as we saw a manatee, there were 3 other tours around us. There needs to be a balance between experiencing the wild life and overwhelming them.
Response from Host, May 2026
We really appreciate you sharing your experience—seeing manatees in their natural habitat is always special. We understand your concerns and always aim to prioritize respectful, safe interactions with wildlife while creating a great experience for our guests. Thanks again for coming out with us 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Alison_W, Apr 2026
We had a great time on our clear kayak tour! We went at the end of April and knew the chances of seeing manatees were slim, but our guide worked very hard throughout the tour to spot some for us and he found a mother and baby for us to observe. It was great! He was very knowledgeable, friendly, and down to earth. The bonus of going at the end of the season was being able to kayak into 3 Sister springs. Beautiful experience. Thank you very much to our guide!
Response from Host, May 2026
That’s such a special experience—finding a mom and baby makes it all worth it! And getting into Three Sisters is such a bonus this time of year. So glad you had a beautiful day out there 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Nancy_C, Apr 2026
A beautiful scene. Saw manatees turtles and an array of birds! Ask for Kyle with a Smile. He was awesome!!
Response from Host, May 2026
Sounds like such a beautiful day out there—manatees, turtles, and birds all in one trip! So glad you had an awesome experience 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Natalie_P, Apr 2026
We came from Jacksonville Florida for a little anniversary trip. Kyle was AWESOME! We definitely will be back with our kiddos! Beautiful views., we had a blast. Highly recommend
Response from Host, May 2026
What a perfect way to celebrate—beautiful views and a fun day on the water! So glad you had a blast and we can’t wait to have you back with the kiddos 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Denise_A, Apr 2026
We had a great time with Cypress! She got us off to a great start with sighting several manatees and gave us plenty of time to enjoy them. Then we made our way over to 3 Sisters and a dunk in the spring. She’s a wealth of information, so personable! The kayak loading was very accessible (we’re all late 50-mid 60’s, not decrepit but still cautious). Will totally ask for her again when we return. The whole reservation process was easy and the staff were super responsive to any messages I sent. 10 stars if I could.
Response from Host, May 2026
That sounds like such a perfect day on the water—great sightings, time to enjoy them, and a refreshing dip at the springs! We’re so glad everything from booking to the tour itself made for such a smooth and memorable experience 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Don_A, Apr 2026
Our tour guide Stephen was so informative and kind. He even pulled us back toward the dock when the wind wore us out ! He spotted us at least 10 manatees He’s the best Really enjoyed the lagoon area Looks just like the videos on tic tok
Response from Host, May 2026
That’s what we love to hear—great sightings and a guide who’s got your back when the wind kicks in! So glad you had such a fun and memorable time out there 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Arther_M, Apr 2026
It was a kayak ride. Not much action, water was cloudy, not clear and windy. I was expecting more, but it was okay.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We don’t control the weather, thanks for the three star :)
NANCY_P, Apr 2026
Nice day kayaking to the Homosassa Springs. The springs itself are just beautiful and peaceful. Highly recommend.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Sounds like such a peaceful day out there—the springs really are something special! We truly appreciate the recommendation 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Elizabeth_B, Apr 2026
Definitely worth it! Stephen was a great guide and we saw manatees, turtles, gators, birds on the kayak trip. The visit to 3 Sisters springs was amazing and the dip in the water was awesome!
Response from Host, May 2026
Sounds like the ultimate day out there—so much wildlife and a refreshing dip in the springs to top it off! So glad you had such an amazing experience 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
Alicia_G, Apr 2026
One of our team members violated a rule they brought a bag and brought food... but we asked the guide to let us continue the tour, but he refused because one of our team members kicked us all out. There were 10 of us, we paid a lot, and they didn't care.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
STOP BREAKING RULES IDIOT! Why in the world do people think it’s okay to break a rule after being told not to do something SIX times????
You are an absolute moron and you feel entitled.
Absolutely one of the rudest groups we have EVER had in six years!!!
Andrew_K, Apr 2026
Advertised pictures and videos are deceiving! They are taken from a distance and not the kayak. From the kayak the water has a glare making it difficult to see clearly… even with our polarized sunglasses. You see large blobs moving slowly but not the 4k quality as seen in the videos. We had a clear kayak that had about a foot of open space to view once you get in making it difficult to see anything! Also, they advertise best time to visit is November to March, but we weren’t advised of the limited sightings (we saw one) outside the prime time season until after we paid! Water was only clear in the 3 Sisters, which is a small area, and swimmers did get a nice view underwater. It was a cloudy day so don’t know if a sunny day would be much clearer or add to the glare. Overall it was an enjoyable day but would not recommend going off season if given a choice.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your review, but it clearly states it is not manatee season and there are less manatees. It is a 640 acre area and there are manatees swimming freely wherever they choose to go. It is not a Zoo and we can not control where they are seen. Polarized sunglasses definitely help and they are told that BEFORE booking and also about the less manatees BEFORE booking. We are definitely not "deceiving" anyone and it's offensive to even mention that.
Also the water is clear in several different spots, but the tides effect water clarity in other areas and it's definitely not trying to deceive anyone.
Have a great day,
Dana_H, Apr 2026
Amazing. We saw a lot of wildlife. Our tour guide Cypress was knowledgable and patient. Perfect amount of time to explore.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Sounds like the perfect balance—plenty of wildlife and just the right amount of time to take it all in! So glad you had an amazing experience 💙 The Paddles Outdoor Team
George_Z, Oct 2025
Jax was THE BEST!!! I took the early tour. We saw A LOT of birds, even a dolphin...yes a dolphin. I went off season so no luck with a manatee but the kayaking to Crystal River is a great workout. I could not believe how crystal clear the water was (No pun intended).
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Jax is going to be doing a happy dance when she sees this — thank you SO much for the huge shout-out!! 🙌
A dolphin on the early tour?! That’s such a rare and awesome surprise — they sometimes cruise up the river chasing mullet and it never fails to blow everyone’s minds (ours included!). Seeing all the birds with Jax pointing out the ospreys, herons, and ibis is one of the big perks of the early-bird trip — the river is so peaceful and the wildlife is wide awake.
We’re bummed the manatees weren’t around for your visit (they start showing up in big numbers right about now and stick around through March), but you picked a perfect time for crystal-clear water and that satisfying “I really earned this workout” feeling. No pun intended, but Crystal River delivered on the crystal part! 💎
Thank you again for paddling with us and for this amazing review. We’d love to have you back during peak manatee season — Jax already said she owes you a manatee sighting!
See you on the water again soon! 🦆🐬💙
— The whole Paddles Outdoor Rentals team
idania_P, Oct 2025
Kevin was amazing really made it super enjoyable. We saw dolphin manatee. Great place. Smooth check in friendly staff.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
He is going to be absolutely thrilled when he sees this — he loves sharing those “pinch me” moments on the water, and getting to show off both dolphins AND manatees on the same trip is next-level special (that’s a banner day even for us!).
We’re so happy the check-in was smooth and the whole team made you feel welcome — that’s exactly the vibe we’re going for from the minute you pull into the lot until you’re back on dry land with a big smile.
Thank you again for paddling with us and for taking the time to share the love. We’d love to have you back the next time you’re in Crystal River — They already said the dolphins and manatees are asking about you! 🐬🦦💙
— The whole Paddles Outdoor Rentals crew
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Clear Kayak Three Sisters Springs & Manatee Tour Of Crystal River
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