Viator Rating : 5 (375 reviews)
Crystal River
Manatee Swim Tour: Crystal River Adventure!
180
Overview
Semi-Private Manatee Swim Tour With In-Water Guide/Photographer in Crystal River offers an unforgettable encounter with gentle giants. This experience provides a chance to swim and snorkel alongside manatees in their natural habitat, the beautiful Crystal River springs. With Crystal River Manatee Adventures, guests will learn fun facts about manatees while observing them up close.
Escorted to and from the dock on heated boats, the tours ensure comfort even on cooler days. The tour limits the group size to six guests, providing a personalized and intimate experience. Wetsuits, snorkels, and masks are provided for the in-water excursion, making it easy for everyone to participate.
This 3-hour adventure focuses on creating a memorable and educational experience for all. Crystal River Manatee Adventures aims to combine fun with nature, ensuring that every guest leaves with a newfound appreciation for these amazing creatures. 
Highlights
Swim with Manatees: Get up close and personal with gentle manatees in their natural habitat.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more personalized tour with a maximum of 6 guests per boat.
In-Water Guide: Learn about manatees from an experienced guide while in the water.
Heated Boats: Stay warm and comfortable on enclosed, heated boats.
Snorkeling Gear Provided: Wetsuits, snorkels, and masks are included for your swimming adventure.
In-Water Photographer: An in-water photographer will capture amazing photos of you and the manatees.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing many manatees up close.
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The guides are friendly and make the tour fun.
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The boats are clean and well-equipped.
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Photographers capture great photos of the experience.
Some customers mentioned the water was murky at times.
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A few found the wetsuits uncomfortable.
The Journey
Crystal River
Crystal River, Florida, is renowned as one of the best places in the world to swim with manatees. The warm, spring-fed waters provide a critical habitat for these gentle creatures, especially during the colder months. The river is part of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, established to protect the endangered Florida manatee.
Crystal River Springs
The Crystal River area is home to numerous natural springs that feed into the river. These springs maintain a consistent temperature year-round, creating a haven for manatees seeking refuge from cooler waters. The clear waters of the springs also offer excellent visibility for observing manatees and other aquatic life.
Know Before You Go
This manatee swim tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment to enhance the underwater viewing experience. It excludes personal expenses and anything not explicitly mentioned. Please note that specific pickup or drop-off locations are not provided, and participants typically meet at a designated location near Crystal River.
Hot Tip
Some customers suggest bringing an underwater camera to capture personal photos in addition to those taken by the tour photographer. Wearing a rash guard under the wetsuit can also improve comfort during the swim.
Review Summary
Customers finds this tour to be a highly memorable and well-organized experience, consistently praising the friendly and knowledgeable guides, the opportunity to swim closely with manatees, and the comfort of the heated boat on cooler days. Many highlight the professionalism, safety, and personal attention from staff, as well as the complimentary hot drinks and photo service. A few note that manatee sightings can vary by season, and some mention the physical demands of entering and exiting the water, but overall, the experience is described as fun, educational, and worth repeating.
Frequently Asked Questions
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