Manatee Encounter

Enjoy a close encounter with the West Indian Manatee

Duration

3 Hours

About

Snorkel with the Manatee with a guided tour from our U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains. Tours conducted daily in the beautiful Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Get up close and personal with these amazing mammals and learn about our ecosystem and their habitat.

Unlike many tours, our captain will actually swim with you and your group to ensure that you have a memorable experience that is both exhilarating for you and safe for the manatee.

During your trip you will be offered the opportunity to rent a high quality underwater digital camera to shoot photos and videos of your encounter. You will also have the option of having the captain be your group's personal photographer and you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

What to Expect

Much like Elephants on an African Safari, Manatees are protected in the refuge and may not be approached within certain boundaries, remember this is THEIR home we are visiting, so we cannot guarantee an encounter with these amazing animals.
Peak encounter season is November through March when the water temperatures lure these gentle mammals to the warm, spring fed waters of the Crystal River. While the water temperature is a consistent 72 degrees the air temperatures during these times vary, but they will dip consistently into the 30's-50's so you can get a little chilly once you exit the water.

If you are booking parties of 7-12 people you will need to book two boats. Both boats will go out together and stay together during the whole trip.

What to Bring

• Hats and/ or Sunglasses (Polarized Lenses are best to see Manatees)
• Swim Suit
• Sunscreen
• Comfortable/Warm Clothes to cover up once out of the water

What we Provide

• Masks
• Snorkel
• Wet Suits