Crystal River Scalloping Adventure Charter
Shared Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fivehour scalloping adventure in Crystal River watersAll gear included: fins, mask, snorkel, and licenseExpert captain guides to prime scalloping locations
Looking for something different on the water? Our Crystal River scalloping charter puts you right in the middle of one of Florida's most unique marine adventures. At $90 per person plus tax and fees, this 5-hour trip gets you out to the prime scalloping grounds where these tasty mollusks are waiting. We're talking about a hands-on experience that's part treasure hunt, part snorkeling adventure, and all Florida. Your captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, and they'll put you on the scallops while making sure you stay safe and have a blast doing it.
This isn't your typical fishing charter – it's something completely different and honestly, that's what makes it so cool. You'll spend 5 hours exploring Crystal River's shallow grass flats and spring-fed waters, where bay scallops hang out during their season. The water here is gin-clear most days, especially near the spring heads, so you can actually see what you're doing down there. Your captain will motor you to the best spots, drop anchor, and give you the rundown on how to spot and collect scallops. The boat stays put while you snorkel around, so you're never too far from a cold drink or a place to rest. Groups are kept small – just you or your party – so you get personalized attention and don't have to compete with a crowd for the best spots.
We've got you covered on all the equipment – mask, fins, snorkel, and mesh bags for your catch. The snorkeling gear is comfortable and easy to use, even if you've never done this before. Your captain will show you how to spot scallops hiding in the grass beds – they're masters of camouflage but once you get your eye in, you'll start seeing them everywhere. The technique is simple: swim slowly over the grass beds, look for the telltale eyes or shell edges poking out, then gently pick them up and drop them in your bag. The water depth ranges from 3 to 8 feet, so you don't need to be an Olympic swimmer. Most scallops are in 4-6 feet of water where the grass is thickest. Your captain will give you tips on reading the bottom and understanding where scallops like to hide – near channel edges, around rock piles, and in the thicker grass patches.
Bay scallops are the stars of this show, and they're absolutely fascinating little creatures. These guys are about the size of a silver dollar when fully grown, with beautiful fan-shaped shells that range from brown to orange to almost purple. What makes them really cool is their bright blue eyes – sometimes 30 or 40 tiny eyes around the edge of their shell that they use to detect shadows and movement. Bay scallops are only legal to harvest from July through September in Crystal River, which makes this a limited-time adventure that locals and visitors plan their summers around. They're filter feeders that live in the seagrass beds, cleaning the water while they grow. The meat is incredibly sweet and tender – nothing like the big sea scallops you get at restaurants. These little guys are a true Florida delicacy, and collecting your own is about as authentic as it gets. Scallops can actually swim by clapping their shells together, so don't be surprised if one jets away from you – it's pretty entertaining to watch.
Crystal River scalloping is one of those experiences that perfectly captures what makes Florida special – clear water, unique wildlife, and the chance to harvest your own dinner. This charter combines the best parts of snorkeling with the satisfaction of finding your own seafood. Your captain's local knowledge makes all the difference in finding productive spots and ensuring you have a safe, successful trip. The 5-hour timeframe gives you plenty of water time without wearing you out, and the included gear means you just show up ready to get wet. Whether you're looking for a family adventure, a different kind of date, or just want to try something new on the water, this scalloping charter delivers something you can't get anywhere else. The season is short and spots fill up fast, especially on weekends, so don't wait too long to secure your dates. Book now and get ready to see Crystal River from a completely different perspective.
Jump aboard our reliable 26-foot Glacier Bay catamaran for your Crystal River scalloping adventure. This sturdy twin-engine boat runs on dual 150HP Yamahas, giving you smooth rides to the best scalloping grounds. The spacious deck easily handles up to 5 anglers, with plenty of room to gear up and sort your catch. Our onboard fish finder helps locate productive bottom structure where scallops love to hide, while GPS keeps us on course to prime spots. The built-in icebox keeps your drinks cold and preserves your fresh scallops for the trip home. Our experienced captain knows these waters inside and out, taking you to shallow grass flats where scallops are thick. Everything's included - mask, fins, snorkel, nets, and your license - just bring sunscreen and get ready to dive. At $90 per person for 5 hours on the water, you'll spend more time hunting scallops than traveling to find them.
Crystal River, FL