The tour was amazing and our guide, Matt was very knowledgeable and friendly.
Before getting into our kayaks we saw a manatee swim by just as Matt was explaining how to look for manatee footprints. After a brief paddling demo we headed toward the springs where the manatees overwinter. It didn't take long for manatees to start appearing near our boats. We just sat near the spring entrance and they came to us as they are very curious.
We then headed along the river for a nature tour and were not disappointed. We spotted a bald eagle as well as many other bird species. We saw turtles and multiple small alligators basking along the shore.
We paddled about four miles, but it was an easy paddle except for a small portion with a headwind. Truly scenic and a great way to tour the area. We then returned to the entrance to the springs to view the manatees before heading back to shore.
I recommend that you go into Blue Springs State Park before arriving at the boat ramp where the tour begins. It is only $6 a car and you can walk along the path to see the manatees from above. There are no restrooms at the boat ramp where the tour begins so you can use the ones in the park before setting off on your tour. After our tour the line to get into the park was very, very long and the park crowded. Going in before the tour gives you a better park experience.