Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer

Highlights

Wetsuits, hot chocolate are included in the manatee adventure
The in-water guide takes videos and photos that are available for purchase
The on-site docks feature a heated changing facility with showers

Summary

Make your way to the Plantation on Crystal River. First, get a brief education about interacting with manatees, an important step as the federal government stipulates "passive observation" between manatees and people in Kings Bay. Then, get suited up with a wetsuit, mask, and snorkel to explore the greater Kings Bay estuary and springs. Although manatees inhabit the area’s water year-round, more of them migrate to the warm springs during the winter months, starting in mid-November, when Florida water temperatures drop. In winter, the tour boats are fully enclosed to protect passengers from the cold elements. Plus, coffee, hot chocolate, water, and dry towels are provided. As is the case with any animal- and water-related experiences, the amount of manatee interaction is dependent on weather, tides, time of the day, and the behavior of the other swimmers. The tour ends at the starting point.

Tour info

Duration

3 hours

Why take this tour?

Come nose-to-nose with Florida manatees during this Crystal River snorkeling tour. Get outfitted with a wetsuit, mask, and snorkel and receive an educational orientation before jumping in with the giant sea creatures. In addition, the in-water guide captures videos and photos, which are available for purchase. For maximum manatee sightings, book in the winter months.

What’s included?

Use of full 5mm wetsuits (for extra warmth), mask and snorkel
Coffee and/or Tea, Hot chocolate, bottle water
Towel Service
US Coast Guard certified captain and Professionally Insured in water guide
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Gratuities
DVD or Flash Drive (available to purchase)
Swimsuits
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 3h
Mobile tickets accepted
Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operator Website

Operated by:

Plantation Adventure Center

About operator:

We pride our selves on the many ways you can enjoy the Plantation Adventure Center. Swim alongside the gentle giants with daily Manatee snorkel tours. Enjoy a relaxing one hour Scenic Cruise of King's Bay or perhaps a Sunset Boat Ride. Kayak the refuge for an up-close encounter with out getting wet. Charter a fishing guide or scallop charter. We even offer rental boats for the experienced travelers. The pride of our operation is our Manatee Tours, Semi-Private or Private Manatee tour. We offer heated changing facility with no parking fees. Captains provide hot chocolate, coffee, bottle water and towels on all our snorkel tours. Crystal River offers the best location to see and interact with the Florida manatee. We provide pre-tour education on passive observation and how to get the best experience during the tour.