My husband and I are native Floridians, and we have been out with River Ventures three times. No lie, this last time was absolutely a transcendent experience. We ventured out with Captain Rhonda and Sky, the manatee whisperer at 6:15 AM on 12/20, and had the experience of a lifetime. Not only did we see manatees, not only did we see multiple manatees, but also we were able to be gifted interaction with manatees of their own accord. I was loved on by so many of these gentle giants, including manatee kisses and gentle play. I was also blown away at our guides' commitment first and foremost to the health and welfare of these special creatures; while other tours were out in the water talking loudly and standing up, we were told to always float as unobtrusively as possible and be calm and quiet -- no wonder we got the biggest rewards. I will always return to this outfitter, who are stewards of our precious coastal paradise.