Crystal River Scallop Hunt: Private Half-Day Charter with Captain Paul & Lucas
Spend a private half-day hunting scallops in Crystal River’s clear bays with Captains Paul and Lucas. Gear and license are provided—arrive ready to snorkel, swim, and learn local boat-to-bay techniques.
The Experience
Before You Go
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen before you board and reapply as directed to protect seagrass and marine life.
Bring a dry bag for valuables
Keep phones, keys, and extra layers in a waterproof bag to stay dry while you snorkel or rinse off in a spring.
Hydrate and eat light
Five hours on the water in sun and salt calls for steady hydration and easy-to-digest snacks to keep energy up.
Respect manatees and seagrass
If you encounter manatees or dense seagrass, stop, observe from a distance, and avoid touching or stepping on vegetation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A quick stop at a nearby spring run for a freshwater rinse and clearer visibility
- •Quiet shallow flats near the bay’s edge where small schools of scallops concentrate after calm mornings
Wildlife
- •West Indian manatee
- •Bottlenose dolphin
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize no-touch rules, seagrass protection and the use of reef-safe products; visitors are asked to pack out trash and follow wildlife distancing guidelines.
The Crystal River area contains significant archaeological sites and shell mounds from Native American groups, reflecting long-standing coastal use and shellfish harvesting.
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects marine habitats and prevents sunburn during prolonged exposure.
Water shoesEssential
Provides traction on wet docks and protection when wading shallow flats.
Dry bag or waterproof phone caseEssential
Keeps valuables dry while snorkeling and during sudden splashes.
Towel and quick-dry change of clothes
Useful for comfort after a rinse in the spring and for the ride back to shore.
Common Questions
Is equipment provided?
Yes—masks, snorkels and fins are included, and the operator supplies a saltwater fishing/scalloping license for guests.
When is scalloping season in Crystal River?
Florida’s recreational bay scallop season typically runs in summer months (commonly June–September); check local regulations and the operator’s schedule for exact dates.
Is this a private tour and how many people can join?
This is a private half-day charter; capacity varies by vessel—confirm maximum group size with the operator when booking.
What about wildlife encounters, like manatees?
Manatees frequent the springs, especially in cooler months—observe from a distance, never touch or chase them, and follow crew instructions to minimize disturbance.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Crystal River, Florida
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; comfortable swimming and short surface swims required for snorkeling and scallop retrieval
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