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Small Group VIP Manatee Pontoon Tour in Crystal River

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

Tue 19 Nov

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $101.38

Make a reservation

Tue 19 Nov

Starting at $101.38

Make a reservation

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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

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)

kendallstratton

Dec 2019

Had a great time on the semi private 6:45 AM manatee tour! The staff were all friendly and our guides, Troy and Heidi, were great! Even though we had warmer weather, we were able to see 6 manatees! Would definitely recommend this company.

Explore647905

Dec 2019

We did the VIP manatee swim with a family ranging from 11 to 59 and we were all surprised at how quickly the time goes by because it was such a good experience. Jose and Troy were great hosts - keeping us informed/educated but in a fun and entertaining way that even kept the attention of our active 11 year old. They were also very respectful and patient with not only us but also visiting boat drivers who didn't know proper etiquette, and of course the manatee. When the kids needed a break they just swam back to the pontoon to enjoy some hot cocoa and snacks while they warmed up a little. They took us to Three Sisters Springs and even though we didn't see manatee, we had fun swimming and diving their. Before we knew it, it was time to head back. Everything went super smoothly from the moment we walked in the door to the time we walked out despite the number of people they were shuffling through the various tour options/times. Definitely recommend River Ventures!

w4559

Dec 2019

Had a great time with Captain John Starks and guide Megan "Megladon". Even though the water was extremely crowded due to holiday travelers, John and Megan found us a place to be by ourselves with 4-5 manatees for hours. Highly recommended. The only drawback is seeing your fat body in a wetsuit.

Response from Host

Dec 2019

We wanted to use this as an opportunity to discuss what to expect around ANY Holiday. Crystal River has been FOUND OUT, it's no longer a hidden secret...that means around any Holidays or school breaks it gets very crowded. For the best experience go out there at dawn and have realistic expectation s if the weather is warm. We also have tours in Homosassa, which tends to be a lot less busy during the weekdays. We are so glad you enjoyed your time, even when it's crowded we do our very best to make the experience special for each person! We are glad you noticed!