Crystal River: VIP Manatee Swim W/ In-Water Photographer

Experience the magic of swimming with manatees in Crystal River, Florida on a VIP tour that promises unforgettable moments. This intimate 3-hour adventure, limited to just 6 participants, offers personalized interactions with these gentle giants. Before entering the water, an informative classroom session provides insights into the lives of manatees, led by a Coast Guard certified captain and expert educator. With wetsuits, masks, and onboard amenities provided, this unique experience ensures comfort and lasting memories. But the real magic happens when you enter the water and become one with these incredible creatures.

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

Key Points

• Intimate manatee swimming experience in King’s Bay Wildlife Refuge, Crystal River, Florida, with a maximum of 6 participants.
• Educational classroom session about manatees prior to the in-water encounter.
• Opportunity to capture memorable moments with manatees through in-water photography.
• Comfortable covered pontoon boat with amenities like hot drinks and a space heater.
• Flexible booking and generous cancellation policy, with a minimum age requirement of 3 years.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The VIP Manatee Swim offers participants the opportunity to swim with manatees in their natural habitat within the King’s Bay Wildlife Refuge in Crystal River, Florida.

This 3-hour experience is limited to just 6 people, providing an intimate and exclusive encounter. Participants will learn about these gentle giants in a classroom setting before entering the water.

The in-water photography ensures guests can cherish their up-close moments with the manatees. Priced from €90.83 per person, the tour provides wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and amenities like coffee, tea, and cocktails on the comfortable covered pontoon boat.

Booking Information

This experience offers flexible booking, allowing visitors to reserve now and pay later without paying anything upfront.

The cancellation policy is generous, providing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The meeting point is the local operator’s facility at 498 SE Kings Bay Drive, Crystal River, FL 34429.

To participate, guests must:

• Be over 3 years old (ages 2 and younger not permitted)
• Be comfortable in water and able to use a short ladder to board the boat
• Meet the water comfort requirements

The overall customer ratings for this tour are impressive, with an average of 4.8/5 based on 156 reviews.

Experience Highlights

Visitors can swim alongside manatees in their natural habitat, the King’s Bay Wildlife Refuge in Crystal River, Florida. This VIP experience allows participants to learn about the gentle giants through an in-classroom session before entering the water. Once in the water, guests can observe the manatees up close while ensuring a passive interaction for the animals’ comfort.

Experience Highlights
Swim with manatees	Learn about manatees	Enjoy on-board amenities
Encounter manatees up close	Ensure passive interaction	Coffee, tea, cocoa, juice, water, cocktails
Comfortable covered pontoon boat	Space heater	Professional services

Included Services

Participants receive a range of included services to enhance their VIP manatee swim experience. This includes:

• Wetsuits, masks, and snorkels to keep comfortable in the water.
• A Coast Guard certified captain and in-water educator/photographer to guide the tour.
• Opportunity to purchase photo packages to capture memories.

A comfortable covered pontoon boat with a space heater for amenities like coffee, tea, hot cocoa, juice, water, and cocktails.

All the necessary equipment and expertise to ensure a safe and memorable encounter with the manatees in their natural habitat.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Participant Guidelines

To participate in the VIP manatee swim experience, individuals must be at least 3 years old, as those 2 and younger aren’t permitted.

Participants must also be comfortable in the water and able to use a short ladder to board the boat.

The customer reviews indicate an overall rating of 4.8/5, with particular praise for the guide quality and interaction with the manatees.

However, some suggest booking earlier tour times to avoid larger crowds.

The equipment provided includes wetsuits, masks, and snorkels, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all guests.

Customer Ratings

According to the information provided, the VIP manatee swim experience has an overall customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 156 reviews.

The guide and transportation aspects received even higher ratings of 4.9 out of 5.

Customers have noted:

• Positive experiences with the guide’s quality and interactions with the manatees
• Comfortable covered pontoon boat with amenities like coffee and cocoa
• Professional and organized service from the operator
• Some suggestions for earlier tour times to avoid larger crowds

Customer Feedback

Overwhelmingly, customers have praised the high quality of the guides and their engaging interactions with the manatees. Many reviewers noted the guides’ extensive knowledge and their ability to provide educational and informative commentary throughout the experience.

Participants also highlighted the comfort and convenience of the covered pontoon boat, appreciating the amenities like hot drinks and cocktails. While some suggested earlier tour times to avoid larger crowds, the majority of customers reported positive experiences, commending the overall organization and transportation provided by the tour operator.

The VIP Manatee Swim consistently earns high ratings, with customers emphasizing the exceptional opportunity to observe these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.

Getting There

The VIP Manatee Swim experience begins at the local operator’s facility located at 498 SE Kings Bay Drive in Crystal River, Florida.

Upon arrival, guests can expect:

• A spacious, comfortable meeting area with ample parking
• Friendly staff to check-in participants and distribute wetsuits
• A brief orientation covering the day’s schedule and safety guidelines
• Access to restrooms, lockers, and a covered outdoor viewing deck
• Convenient proximity to the boat launch site, just a short walk away

From the facility, it’s an easy stroll to the pontoon boat that will take participants out to the manatee viewing area in King’s Bay Wildlife Refuge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Requirements?

The experience does not mention any dietary restrictions or requirements. It states that amenities like coffee, tea, hot cocoa, juice, water, and cocktails are provided on the boat, but does not specify if any dietary needs can be accommodated.

Can We Bring Our Own Camera Equipment?

Yes, guests can bring their own camera equipment for the manatee swim. However, a professional in-water photographer is also included to capture the experience, so guests may choose to purchase the photo package instead.

What Is the Best Time of Year to See Manatees?

The best time to see manatees is during the winter months, typically from November through March, when they congregate in the warm waters of natural springs and power plant outflows along Florida’s coasts.

Are There Any Physical Limitations for Participants?

Participants must be comfortable in the water and able to use a short ladder to board the boat. Children under 3 years old are not permitted. There are no other physical limitations for participating in this activity.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Experience?

While the standard tour duration is 3 hours, it may be possible to extend the experience. Participants would need to check with the tour operator about availability and any additional fees for a longer tour.

Recap

Crystal River’s VIP manatee swim with an in-water photographer promises an unforgettable encounter with these gentle giants. With a personalized, small-group experience, expert guidance, and professional photography, this tour provides the perfect way to take in the magic of these fascinating creatures. Comfortable amenities and a convenient location make this an unmissable opportunity to create lasting memories in the heart of Florida’s natural wonder.

You can check if your dates are available here: