Crystal River in Florida

Trip Overview

I rented a kayak from Crystal River outfitters -- one of several outfitters in the area. My preference is canoeing, but everyone seems to rent kayaks. I was given a detailed map and paddling instructions to find manatees. I paddled out a small channel, and around a large marina and then back into a channel toward the Three Sisters area.

It was not long and I was noticing that I was not alone in the water.

In a wide area of the channel, 3 other kayaks and 2 pontoon boats had taken floated into an area filled with Manatees. Below, in the clear water, I could easily see these large mammals gently gliding effortlessly through the water just inches beneath me. I had to watch where I put my paddle.

There was a good breeze that day and I had to make some strokes in order to not drift into some folks that were snorkeling in the water. It was an amazing experience.

Accommodations:

I was dropped off and picked up at a city park

Fees:

all day rental ran about $35

Contact:

Google search on crystal river / manatee / outfitters

Resources:

A detailed map with current manatee sighting information was provided.