Premier Scalloping Adventure on Florida's Nature Coast — Crystal River Scallop Charters
Board a covered tritoon at Pete's Pier and snorkel shallow seagrass beds for bay scallops on a guided 5‑hour charter. Perfect for families and first-time snorkelers—gear, licenses and an in‑water guide are included.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
The area is seagrass-rich and sensitive—use reef-safe sunscreen and reapply often to protect habitat and skin.
Hydrate before boarding
Five hours on the water with sun exposure means drink water before and during the charter; bottled water is provided but start hydrated.
Practice mask clearing
If you're new to snorkeling, practice clearing your mask and snorkel in shallow water—guides will assist, but basic comfort speeds the experience.
Respect scallop limits
Citrus County limits are 2 gallons per person or 10 gallons per vessel—fill your legal limit, not more, and separate catch in the provided cooler.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Three Sisters Springs boardwalk for manatee viewing (show respect and distance)
- •Crystal River Archaeological State Park—short shore visit for local history and shell middens
Wildlife
- •West Indian manatee
- •Bottlenose dolphin
Conservation Note
Seagrass beds are critical nursery habitat; use reef‑safe sunscreen, follow harvest limits and avoid disturbing manatees or nesting areas to reduce impact.
The Nature Coast has long been a harvesting landscape—indigenous shell mounds and 19th‑century fishing communities shaped local settlement and seafood culture.
What to Bring
Rash guard or neoprene topEssential
Protects from sun and keeps you comfortable during long surface swims.
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin without harming seagrass and marine life.
Water shoes or boat sandals
Helpful for boarding, moving on wet decks and walking on shell-littered docks.
Small dry bag
Keeps phone, snacks and extra clothing dry while on a wet deck.
Common Questions
Are snorkel gear and licenses included?
Yes—masks, snorkels, fins, scallop bags and required fishing licenses are provided and covered in your charter.
What is the scallop season and bag limit?
Season runs July 1 through September 24; Citrus County limits are 2 gallons per person and 10 gallons per vessel—follow local rules.
Can beginners participate?
Absolutely—an in‑water guide assists new snorkelers with techniques for spotting and diving for scallops.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips are canceled for unsafe weather; the operator follows a 24‑hour cancellation refund window and will reschedule when possible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Crystal River, Florida
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Requires moderate fitness: ability to swim short dives from surface, climb aboard and move on a boat repeatedly.
Ready to Explore Crystal River?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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