Drove over two hours to River Ventures to live one of my lifetime dreams, swimming with manatees. First class operation; facility, gift shop, education and best of all the staff.
Our pilot and guide, John and JJ were professional and fun. Within ten minutes of travel, we were swimming with three manatees, it was unbelievable. The same experience every time we moved to another location. I'd recommend the small group tour as there were six of us sharing one guide.
As a scuba diver I can tell you the rush you get when you are only feet away from a sea turtle and/or shark, yes shark! That same feeling when a huge manatee comes up for air and it's face is only inches from you. You don't get certified to snorkel, twenty minutes of instruction and you are on your way to a fantastic experience.
Two hour drive to River Venture, will repeat next time in the area. Five star rating, great people to deal with.