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St. Johns River Nature Cruise at Blue Spring State Park: Best Spot for Manatee Sighting in Florida
4.8
75 Ratings
Orange City
Embark on a St. Johns River Nature Cruise at Blue Spring State Park, the ultimate destination for manatee sightings in Florida. Discover the rich history and diverse wildlife of the St. Johns River with our expert crew.
Duration:
2 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- Saint Johns - As we traverse this untamed wilderness, it’s important to note that sightings vary from day to day, adding an element of excitement to each voyage. Prepare to encounter a captivating array of wildlife, including majestic wading birds, gentle manatees, vibrant aquatic plant life, enchanting cypress forests, and the occasional glimpse of awe-inspiring alligators
![](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/12/1a/1e/49.jpg)
What's Included
- On-board restrooms
What's Not Included
- Blue Spring State Park Entrance fee : $6 per vehicle (limit 2-8 people per vehicle)
Additional Information
Blue Spring has been acclaimed as the top location in Florida for manatee sightings. Experience the revered St. Johns River Nature Cruise, departing daily from the Blue Spring State Park harbors, a favorite among Central Florida tourists. Dive into the vast historical richness and the plentiful wildlife that the St. Johns River boasts, under the guidance of our well-informed and approachable team.
Location
2100 W French Ave
West French Avenue
Passengers arrive 1.5 hours before departure (Highly recommend)
Once inside the park, report to the BOAT DOCK for check-in, 10 Mins before departure LOCATED at the lower parking lot.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.8
(75 Ratings)
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Kevin_m
Jul 2, 2024
Great Tour - Great tour guide and saw lots of animals!
The boat was in great shape as well.
I would definitely recommend this tour.
Review provided by Viator
Patriciamp3411ns
Jun 23, 2024
Scenic and very informative! - Took the 2 hour tour on a Sunday. There were only 4 of us on the boat. Rebecca, the tour guide and captain, did a great job getting us up close and personal with the wildlife. She pointed out many birds, turtles, alligators and manatees. She also gave us background information on other animals in the park. We even saw an owl and wild turkeys! Well worth the $30.00 cost.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
199levia
Jun 20, 2024
Serene Beauty and Very Informative - The boat ride exceeded our family's expectations. Very beautiful, serene setting. The 2 hour ride gave us plenty of picture opportunities, from the beautiful surroundings, to alligators, many bird species, and turtles! Everyone in our group enjoyed the trip, from my 8 year old to the grandparents. Worth every penny!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Michaelap7678bi
May 18, 2024
The tour giver was very informative and funny to - Really enjoyed this cruise. We’re able to see many different birds and some alligators. My wife and I would definitely go again
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Beck
May 14, 2024
Beautiful and Breathtaking experience - A Mother's Day gift to my wife that did not disappoint! We spotted all sorts of wild life during our 2 hr guided tour of the St. John's River. Our guide Rebecca, was awesome! She was insightful, informative and a great storyteller.
Many Thanks to all the staff at the Blue Spring State Perk, for a great experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
B5767wwpatriciac
May 14, 2024
Best Nature Boat Ride and Tour Guide. EVER! - Beautiful scenery and lots of birds, alligators, turtles, exotic plants. Comfortable open air boat with toilet. Four guide was very knowledgeable , humorous and accommodating for great photo ops. She even backed the boat up several times to make sure everyone got to see the fauna and flora hiding in the greenery. I highly recommend taking this relaxing and illuminating float down the St. John's River!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Baughjoanna
May 5, 2024
Enjoyable day at Blue Springs - The boat ride and tour guide were amazing. We saw plenty of birds (including an eagle), alligators, and turtles. The boardwalk to the springs was also enjoyable. Especially seeing a manatee.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Floridatraveler7277
May 4, 2024
Great Florida tour - We had a wonderful tour with captain Collin. Saw an amazing amount of wildlife, including Barred owls and dozens of alligators. Very Comfortable and exciting trip.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
E3438yfrons
May 3, 2024
Great 2 hr cruise along the St Johns River at Blue Springs. - We had a great captain. She has been doing this for 24 years. She was not afraid to stop and back up if she saw something at the last minute she thought was interesting. Saw alligators, turtles, hawks, owls, many kinds of egret, water ducks, and a bald eagle.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Gavyn_s
Apr 28, 2024
This was a great experience - This was a great experience with a great guide. Loads of wildlife including alligators and turtles. This was will worth the price paid
Review provided by Viator