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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
Sat 16 Nov
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $101.38
Sat 16 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)
MalcolmB1320
Sep 2018
Swimming with Manatees was planned as the highlight of our family trip to Florida. We traveled a long way to Florida This tour was everything expected and more, The service was so personal and friendly, it felt like we were with old friends. The Captain and guide were extremely nice and so helpful. they know the waters around the area really well and found manatees in no time. they had us in the water and swimming before any of the other boats arrived. This is so much better than a group tour where you get much less time in the water with the manatees, and dont get much attention. The guide won over our 3 and 6 yr old daughters in record time, and got them in the water in just a few minutes. The 3 yr sat on her back while the 6 yr old swam next to her. We had really lovely close up experience with a manatee, coming really within inches many times. its a great experience recommended for any nature lover. We also spent some time driving around the lake area, swimming over one of the fresh water springs. Captain showed us so many interesting things about the birds, fishes, plant life and history of the place. Overall fantastic service and really wonderful people. highly, highly recommended.
Jimmy W
Sep 2018
I love water and Manatee. This is the best of both worlds. with everything provided I was in heaven.
hk123_10
Aug 2018
We took the VIP tour with Heidi and Captain Wade, we loved it. It was such a personalized experience for us as a family. We have 2 young girls, 6 and 3 yo and both had a wonderful time. It wasn't the height of the manatee season but with the teams expertise we weren't disappointed. We were able to swim for a good amount of time with one lovely graceful majestic manatee. So relaxing. My little 3 yo didn't want to put her head under the water but she was there for the entire experience on the back of host Heidi. Our older daughter was loving it too and it really was the highlight of the trip for her. The boat ride around the coast was so special and we were well looked after with snacks and drinks. Wade and Heidi imparted so much knowledge of the area and the wildlife, their experience was invaluable. We totally recommend taking the VIP tour as you will definitely get the royal treatment. We will come visit again. Thanks !!

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