The experience was absolutely amazing! Every employee of the tour were extremely welcoming, helpful, and knowledgeable about manatees and their ecosystem. Our four kids are ages 9 yrs and above and good swimmers. You are given wet suits and a noodle for the encounter. The water is always between 72-74 F due to the fresh water springs. We were with Megan, our amazing swim guide, and Capt. Stark, who guided us throughout the Crystal River with ease. We were within inches of these gentle creatures, even mothers with their nursing babies! The Three Sisters Spring, one area we were blessed to swim in this tour, was beyond words! The absolute clarity of the water and the "screen saver" beauty of the spring is one that will never be forgotten. Megan swam the whole tour with us, guiding us to the best encounters with the animals and teaching us all about them and their home. Coffee, soda, hot chocolate, water, and little snacks were provided on board. Megan was wonderful as a guide, but she even gave us more! She photographed the entire tour, with short videos of our experience! We could be in the moment and not have to be distracted by attempting to take pictures. And the result? Professional and art quality photos! We bought the 100+ photos/videos on an USB port for less than $40.00. Our kids talk more about this tour than all the time we spent at Disney World and Universal Studios! As a mom, I would not recommend this tour for very young children. You are in the natural environment of these beautiful creatures and will have an lifetime experience if you follow the guides and the instructions given. Quiet, calm, and respectful is a small request to be a guest in the manatees' home. Our family has fallen in love with these extraordinary animals and are so grateful for the opportunity to meet them up close. Everyone at the tour truly love and care for these animals, and it is reflected in this tour. The 3 hours flew by! Best family adventure we've had!!!