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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)
beth_trainer
Feb 2022
Exceptional experience made better by our awesome guide Paige and capt Troy! The experience was seamless for all the families on our pontoon regardless of in-water comfort level. Would highly recommend River Ventures for all that are inspired by manatees and our natural Florida waters.
100kathrinea
Feb 2022
Great experience and one I will never forget. The VIP was the right choice for us because we had a great chance of clearer waters for viewing vs large group of swimmers kicking up silt from the bottom, occluding views of the manatees. We had good, safe encounters with manatees and great education along the way. I was impressed by the consciousness towards the environment and respect toward the manatees and other sea creatures. You are in a natural environment, so you will have close encounters of the seaweed variety, which somehow was a bit off-putting for my young teen, but didn't bother others in our group. Everything was provided by the tour: wetsuits, snorkels, goggles, drinks and snacks. Perfect day! Sarah and Captain Matt were a great team!
marlap2022
Feb 2022
Early am was worth it! Staff was friendly upon arrival, offering coffee, tea and hot cocoa. Very cute gift shop to browse while everyone for your tour arrives. Cortney was our guide- very fun and friendly. Troy was our boat driver- very informative about the waters and manatees- great educational session. Both make a great team for an awesome experience. Variety of snacks and drinks offered, clean boat and gear.

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