Scuba & Snorkel Adventures
Looking to make a splash during your Florida getaway? Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, Central Florida offers some of the most exciting underwater adventures in the Sunshine State. From scuba diving lessons and certifications to manatee snorkel tours and guided eco-excursions, there’s something for everyone who wants to explore the world beneath the waves. We’ve gathered some of the top-rated scuba and snorkel experiences offered by local operators near Crystal River, Homosassa, and Tavares, so you can dive into unforgettable memories—literally!
Epic Diving FL — Open Water Scuba Diver Course
Ready to explore the incredible underwater world? The Open Water Scuba Diver course is the perfect starting point for your scuba diving journey. This beginner scuba certification is recognized worldwide and opens the door to breathtaking dive sites across the globe.
Through this course, you’ll gain essential knowledge of scuba diving equipment, underwater techniques, and safety practices. You’ll also develop the skills and confidence needed to dive independently in open water.
Epic Diving FL’s performance-based approach ensures you get hands-on, personalized instruction every step of the way. Your dedicated instructor will guide you through pool sessions and open water dives, helping you build both competence and confidence.
By the end of your course, you’ll not only have earned a lifelong scuba diving certification, but also the skills and knowledge to embark on unforgettable adventures beneath the surface of the ocean.
Sea Daddy’s Adventures — Swim with Florida’s Gentle Giants: Manatee Eco Tours
Looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience during your Florida vacation? We recommend the Manatee Eco Tour with Sea Daddy’s Adventures, where you’ll have the chance to learn about Florida’s unique ecosystems and swim alongside the gentle giants of the sea: wild manatees!
This 4-hour adventure starts with an educational walkthrough at the dive shop, featuring aquarium tanks with native and invasive species. Guests also watch the U.S. Fish & Wildlife’s Manatee Manners video and receive a mandatory snorkeling briefing to ensure a safe and respectful experience in the water.
After the indoor session (about 40 minutes), you’ll hop aboard the Adventure Bus for a complimentary ride to the dock—no parking fee required! The rest of your adventure will be spent on the water, guided by local, experienced captains who will help locate manatees and guide you into the water to swim alongside these incredible creatures.
Your guide will capture photos and videos throughout your trip, which will be emailed to you afterward—memories that last a lifetime!
Fun 2 Dive Charters — Swim with Wild Manatees: Semi-Private Snorkel Tours
If you’re looking for an unforgettable wildlife encounter during your time in Florida, we highly recommend the semi-private manatee snorkel tours offered by Fun 2 Dive Charters. These tours have earned a stellar reputation for providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with Florida’s wild manatees in their natural habitat—and for good reason!
Fun 2 Dive Charters specializes in small-group manatee tours with a maximum of six guests per boat, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience. This limited capacity means you’ll have plenty of space and time to learn from the expert guides, ask questions, and truly immerse yourself in the experience without feeling rushed or crowded.
Manatees are gentle, curious creatures, and swimming alongside them in the crystal-clear waters of Crystal River’s protected refuge is nothing short of magical. Your experienced guide will help you locate the manatees and provide instruction on how to safely and respectfully interact with these incredible animals, all while sharing fascinating facts about their behavior, habitat, and the importance of conservation efforts.