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Small Group VIP Manatee Pontoon Tour in Crystal River

Overview
We will let you in on a secret! You can get the high-end experience, with an affordable price tag! Our new heated (during winter), luxury pontoon aims to amp up the manatee sighting and deliver a more personal event! Observe the endangered West Indian Manatee in Crystal River’s idyllic Kings Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Your US Coast Guard licensed captains and guides will take you into the 600 acre spring fed refuge waters for viewing and snorkeling with these slow moving wild giants. All equipment, fees, snacks and beverages are included.
City: Crystal River
Wed 20 Nov
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $101.38
Wed 20 Nov
Starting at $101.38
Make a reservation
What's Included
Professional guide
Use of equipment (mask, snorkel gear and wet suit)
Introductory/instructional video offered in English, French, German, Japanese, or Spanish
Beverages (bottled water, coffee, hot chocolate, tea and adult)
Additional Info
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Adult pricing applies to all travelers
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Wetsuits are available in sizes from toddlers (2 years old and up) to adults up to 5X
  • It is advised that you have your swimsuit on underneath your clothes for a quicker check-in
  • Please bring a towel and a plastic bag to hold your belongings
  • Children Under 3 years old are not allowed on this tour. Please call for other options.
  • Post COVID-19 Policy- We are mindful to thoroughly clean water vehicles between visitors.
  • Hand sanitiser available to travellers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
  • Regularly sanitised high-traffic areas
  • Gear/equipment sanitised between use
  • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitised
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
What To Expect
1
River Ventures
Embark on your journey with a Coast Guard Certified Master Captain who will be your in water chaperon, educator and photographer. Your tour will run four hours from start to finish and everything you will need is included for one price. You will begin at our full-service tour facility, where you will be educated about the animals in a classroom type setting and receive tips for your snorkel tour to make the most of your day. You will be taught the in’s and out’s of ‘passive interaction’ as this ensures that the animals enjoy the experience as much as we do! You will then be suited up and transported to the dock, where a Coast Guard certified covered pontoon will be waiting for you. This rich estuary will amaze…..birds, fish and wildlife abound! Submerge yourself in the manatee’s world! Finish your adventure by viewing your Captain’s photos back at our facility and be sure to visit our one-of-a-kind gift shop! Our well-informed staff will direct to other local attractions, restaurants and answer of your questions before you are on your way.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (565)
NefariousO
Feb 2020
Heidi was our guide and Hailey was our captain. My wife was having some panic while in the water and Heidi noticed and helped her, even gave her a different mask so she felt more comfortable. Heidi was able to do that, give us all individual attention, and take amazing photos and video at the same time! Capt Hailey is very knowledgeable about manatees and other wildlife we observed such as turtles, fish, and birds. It was a great trip and I recommend this company. All the rules were well explained and we felt we were not bothering the manatee but they are curious animals and enjoyed interacting with us.
880mariw
Feb 2020
This tour was amazing, and Chip and Sky made the experience first class! I had high expectations, and River Ventures did not disappoint!! Sky and Chip were so knowledgeable and personal, and attentive to all the guests needs. Can't wait to go back!!
milehi5280
Feb 2020
This was truly one of the best experiences I've ever had! Chip and Skylar were fantastic guides! They were very knowledgeable and did their best to make this a great outing. If you go, I would highly recommend the small group VIP tour. Limiting the group to only six people makes for a much more enjoyable and intimate experience. The best time to see the manatees is early morning. When we left the dock it was a cool 50 degrees outside. The heated pontoon boat was a welcome bonus. Keep in mind that the water near the springs is always right around 72 degrees, so it was actually warmer in the water than out of it!

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