Crystal River: Manatee Snorkel Tour W/ In-Water Photographer

Exploring the crystal-clear waters of Florida’s Crystal River, adventurers can embark on a captivating manatee snorkel tour that promises an unforgettable encounter with these gentle marine giants. Guided by Coast Guard-certified experts, the 3-hour excursion combines a scenic boat cruise, comprehensive safety briefing, and the opportunity to swim alongside the manatees in their natural habitat. With complimentary snorkel gear and a professional photographer documenting the experience, participants can fully enjoy this intimate and sustainable wildlife encounter. As the tour’s limited capacity ensures a personalized experience, those seeking a unique connection with nature won’t want to miss this remarkable opportunity.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Photography Experiences In Crystal River.

Key Points

• A 3-hour manatee snorkeling tour in Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, led by Coast Guard-certified guides, with complimentary photographs included.
• Opportunity to swim and snorkel with endangered manatees in their natural habitat, with safety gear and flotation devices provided.
• Personalized experience with a group size limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate encounter with the wildlife.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy, allowing for a "reserve now, pay later" option and full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.
• Positive customer feedback, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 566 reviews, highlighting the tour operator’s ability to deliver exceptional wildlife experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Manatee Snorkel Tour is a 3-hour activity that allows visitors to swim with endangered manatees in their natural habitat within the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.

Priced from $69.95 per person, the tour includes a boat cruise, safety briefing, and the opportunity to snorkel and view marine life.

Reservations can be made with a pay-later option, and full refunds are available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is limited to 10 participants and led by a Coast Guard-certified captain and instructor, ensuring a safe and personalized experience.

Amenities such as snorkel gear, wetsuits, and bottled water are provided, making this an all-inclusive adventure in the Crystal River.

Itinerary and Experience

Starting at the River Ventures location at 498 SE Kings Bay Dr, the Manatee Snorkel Tour kicks off with a 25-minute safety briefing.

Guests then board the boat for a 2.42-hour cruise to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. During the tour, participants have the opportunity to swim and snorkel with the endangered manatees in their natural habitat.

The group size is limited to 10 people, ensuring a personalized experience guided by a Coast Guard certified captain and instructor.

Snorkeling gear, including mask, snorkel, and wetsuit, is provided, along with bottled water.

The tour also includes a package of professional photographs capturing the memorable wildlife interaction.

Wildlife Interaction and Safety

Guests can experience the thrill of swimming alongside endangered manatees in their natural habitat during the Manatee Snorkel Tour.

Children under 3 years aren’t allowed on the tour, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should be comfortable in the water, as snorkel vests and flotation noodles are available for safety.

The guides, who are Coast Guard certified, prioritize the well-being of both the manatees and your, ensuring a responsible and enjoyable wildlife encounter.

With these safety measures in place, guests can fully enjoy the unique experience of observing these gentle marine mammals in their protected natural environment.

Included Amenities

The tour package includes a variety of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Participants are provided with a mask, snorkel, and wetsuit for the manatee snorkel portion of the tour. Bottled water is also included to keep everyone hydrated during the excursion.

Plus, the tour fee covers parking and a complimentary picture package, allowing guests to capture and cherish their memorable interactions with the manatees.

While not included in the base price, the tour company also offers optional coffee, tea, and shopping at their on-site gift shop for those interested in additional refreshments or souvenirs.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Manatee Snorkel Tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 566 reviews.

The guides received a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating, with reviewers praising their friendliness and expertise.

The transportation and overall organization of the tour also received high marks, scoring 4.8 and 4.9 out of 5, respectively.

Customers consistently described the snorkeling experience as enjoyable, highlighting the opportunity to swim with the endangered manatees in their natural habitat.

The tour’s strong ratings across various metrics demonstrate its ability to deliver a memorable and well-executed wildlife encounter.

About the Tour Operator

River Ventures, the tour operator behind the Manatee Snorkel Tour, is a well-established ecotourism company dedicated to providing visitors with immersive wildlife experiences.

With over a decade of expertise, they offer guided tours that allow guests to safely observe and interact with the elusive Florida manatee in their natural habitat.

The company’s team of Coast Guard-certified captains and instructors are highly trained, ensuring the utmost safety and care during the tours.

By limiting group sizes to 10 participants, River Ventures ensures a personalized and intimate encounter with these gentle marine mammals.

Boasting exceptional customer reviews, River Ventures’ commitment to sustainable tourism and exceptional service has made them a trusted choice for those seeking an unforgettable manatee encounter.

What to Bring and Wear

Bringing the right gear and attire is crucial for an enjoyable and comfortable manatee snorkeling experience. The tour operator provides essential equipment, including a mask, snorkel, and wetsuit, to ensure participants stay warm and protected in the water.

However, there are a few personal items guests should consider bringing:

• Towel: Helpful for drying off after the in-water portion of the tour.
• Water shoes or sandals: Provides traction and comfort when walking on the boat and pier.
• Underwater camera: Captures unforgettable memories of swimming alongside these gentle giants.

Plus, it’s recommended to dress in lightweight, quick-drying clothing to maximize comfort throughout the three-hour excursion.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Although reservations can be made online or over the phone, the tour operator offers a convenient "reserve now, pay later" option. This allows guests to secure their spot without paying upfront.

The tour is priced at $69.95 per person and a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. The small group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Safety is a top priority, with only Coast Guard certified captains and instructors leading the tours. The booking and cancellation policy provides flexibility and peace of mind for guests planning their manatee snorkeling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a limited group size of 10 participants. This small group ensures an intimate and personalized experience for each guest during the manatee snorkeling activity.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?

The tour provides all the necessary snorkel gear, including mask, snorkel, and wetsuit. Participants are not allowed to bring their own gear, as the tour operator ensures proper fit and function for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Will There Be Any Opportunities to Take Photos Myself?

According to the tour details, guests will have the opportunity to take their own photos during the snorkeling experience. An in-water photographer is also included to capture professional photos of guests swimming with the manatees.

Are Wetsuits Provided for All Sizes?

Yes, wetsuits are provided in a range of sizes to accommodate all participants. The tour includes gear like masks, snorkels, and wetsuit rentals as part of the included amenities.

Can I Request a Private or Semi-Private Tour?

Yes, customers can request a private or semi-private tour. The tour operator offers flexible booking options to accommodate different group sizes and preferences. Advance reservations are recommended to ensure availability.

Recap

The Crystal River Manatee Snorkel Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to swim alongside these gentle marine mammals in their natural habitat. With a focus on safety, sustainability, and personalized experiences, this tour provides a once-in-a-lifetime chance to capture unforgettable memories with the help of a professional photographer. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: