Guided swim · Homosassa River springs
Swim with manatees in Homosassa, Florida
Three hours on the spring-fed Homosassa River with a wetsuit, mask and snorkel included — and a captain who knows where the manatees gather. $79 per person.
The swim
Three hours with Florida's gentlest giants
Immerse yourself in the gentle beauty of Florida's natural world by swimming alongside manatees in the clear, spring-fed water of the Homosassa River. At Monkey Island Adventures, we take small groups out from the marina at Monkey Island Riverside Resort and keep the pace calm, so the encounter happens on the manatees' terms.
Manatees gather in the warm springs from November through March, when the Gulf cools down. Some stay in the river year-round — but winter is the surest time to see them, and the best time to book.
What to expect in the water
Clear, spring-fed water
You will be snorkeling in water clear enough to watch a manatee graze from the surface, in the same springs that draw them every winter.
Gentle, unhurried encounters
No chasing, no crowding. Our captains brief every group on passive observation — float, watch, let the manatee decide how close to come.
Expert guidance
Your captain stays with the group, watches the water and answers questions about manatee behaviour and why the springs matter to them.
Warm and comfortable
Spring water stays around 72°F year-round. A wetsuit is included with your swim, so you can stay in longer.
Why people choose us
Experienced captains. Guests come back asking for Captain Jesse and Captain “Kangaroo” by name. They know the river and they keep the trip relaxed.
Eco-friendly practice. We respect the manatees' habitat — no touching, no chasing, no crowding the springs.
Small groups. Public tours run with a three-seat minimum so there is room in the water and on the boat.
How the three hours go
Meet at the marina
Arrive 10 minutes early at 5297 South Cherokee Way. We fit wetsuits, masks and snorkels and give the safety and wildlife briefing.
Cruise to the springs
We head upriver past Monkey Island to the warm springs where manatees rest and feed.
Swim and watch
Slip into the water with your captain. Float, look, and let the manatees come to you.
Warm up and head back
Dry off, compare notes and cruise back to the marina.
Under the surface
What you might see
Manatees first, but the river has more going on than most visitors expect.
Included
On the boat
- Wetsuit, mask and snorkel
- Captain and boat for three hours
- Wildlife briefing before you get in the water
- Guidance in the water, start to finish
Bring with you
What to pack
- Swimsuit and a towel
- A warm layer for the ride back
- Water and a snack
- Reef-safe sunscreen for the boat
Booking a manatee swim for today?
Online booking closes 12 hours before departure, and same-day seats are not guaranteed. If you are in Homosassa now, contact us and we will tell you what is open — larger parties and custom river cruises can be arranged too.
“We took a boat cruise with Captain Jesse, this was a wonderful and relaxing trip. The boat was clean, the company was great… It was my sister's birthday and this was the best part of our weekend at Florida Cracker Resort. I highly recommend this trip, especially with Captain Jesse.”
“Capt. Kangaroo was a great sport and capt. We had a very relaxing ride with lots of laughs.”
“Awesome 45 minute ride! A must do. A lil bit pricey but well worth it!”
Good to know
Manatee swim questions, answered
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to swim with manatees?
You do not need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable floating and snorkeling in open water. Wetsuits help you stay buoyant and warm, and the captain stays with the group for the whole swim.
What is included in the $79 manatee swim?
The $79 per-person price includes your wetsuit, mask and snorkel, the boat, your captain and a briefing on how to interact with manatees respectfully. Bring a swimsuit and a towel.
When is the best time to see manatees in Homosassa?
Manatees gather in Florida's warm springs from November through March, when the Gulf cools down. Some stay in the river year-round, but winter is the most reliable time to see them.
Why is there a three-seat minimum?
Public manatee tours run with a three-seat minimum. If you are a party of two, you may be charged for the third seat unless another guest is paired with you. Contact us if you have questions about your group size.
Can I book a manatee swim for today?
Same-day seats are not guaranteed. Online booking closes 12 hours before departure, so if you want to swim today, contact us directly and we will tell you what is open.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 72 hours or more before departure receive a full refund or credit. Cancellations inside 72 hours receive no refund, and no-shows are charged the full price. If we cancel for weather or safety, you get a full refund or credit.
Keep planning
Swim with the manatees this winter
Wetsuit, mask and snorkel included. Three hours on the Homosassa River with a captain who knows the springs.