Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer
5
Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer
By Plantation Adventure Center
About
Come nose-to-nose with Florida manatees during this Crystal River snorkeling tour. Get outfitted with a 5mm 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.
from per adult
HK$560.65
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 1-99, max of 11 per group
Duration: 3h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English
More
Highlights
- Crystal River is home to a large endangered manatee population in winter
- 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
- 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
What's not included- Gratuities
- DVD or Flash Drive (available to purchase)
- Swimsuits
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- 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.
- Start:
- Plantation Adventure Center and Manatee Tours, 9301 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429, USALocated on property at the Plantation on Crystal River
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 62758P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wetsuits available in children's size 6 up to 3XL
- Use of full 5mm wetsuits (for extra warmth), mask and snorkel
- Children most be accompanied by an adult
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Minimum age requirement of 6 years old
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 11 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- How much is Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer?
- Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer price starts from HK$547.10. Discover and book Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer on Tripadvisor
- What is the Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer cancellation policy?
- Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Discover and book Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer on Tripadvisor
- Which company provides Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer?
- Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer is hosted by Plantation Adventure Center. Read reviews, discover additonal experiences or contact Plantation Adventure Center on Tripadvisor. Discover and book Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer on Tripadvisor
- How much time do I need for Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer?
- On average, this experience will take approximately 3h. Discover and book Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Divemaster/Photographer on Tripadvisor
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 62758P1
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- PHeijerman0 contributionsVery nice 👌🏻Very nice boat trip around the Kingsbay area. We had a nice day on the with a little breeze to cool down 😇 Even spotted a bold eagle 🦅Written 17 March 2024
- DayTrip6719220 contributionsBucket List Item Completed!Just returned from our trip to Tampa and can't say enough about our tour experience at Plantation Adventure Center. Dave was our boat captain and Tristan was our Divemaster/Photographer--they were phenomenal! Due to the hurricane last year there weren't as many manatees as we had hoped to see but Dave and Tristan went our of their way to get us to as many spots as possible to catch some sightings. We loved every minute of our experience and are planning a future return so that we can do it again!Written 15 March 2024
- pzkat0 contributionsFriendly staff, wonderful experience up on the waterWe had a great time on the early morning semi-private tour. It was beautiful to start out before sunrise and watch the sunrise from the water. We were able to tour the bay and swim in the 3 sisters springs and see these gentle giants up close and personal. Our guide was lovely and knowledgeable as was our boat captain. Warm drinks and parkas on board made for a cozy and comfortable experience. The staff couldn’t have been friendlier. Would highly reccommend!Written 13 March 2024
- johntJ1322QJ0 contributionsAwesome Manatee Tour!Awesome tour with Kendra and Cory. Highly recommend! Manatees were incredible and the tour was flexible to allow us to stay with the manatees since they were in a crystal clear location.Written 11 March 2024
- Lisa B0 contributionsMeh.I’m really glad to see all these manatee pictures because our experience did not meet any of these experiences. When considering in doing the tour, I think it’s important to have realistic expectations. 1) no guarantee to see manatees 2) manatees like warm water, but as soon as they are able to leave for the gulf, they do. 3) there are A LOT of boats, snorkelers and kayakers all trying to see them. 4) the water is VERY murky…not clear like the photos. We departed at 7:15am. It was dark and cold…we were all freezing as we drove around for over an hour trying to find a spot to stop. We had 4 children on our tour and all were very patient, but although no one said it, we were all freezing. We drank all the hot chocolate and 1/2 the coffee to stay warm. We got in the water twice, seeing a manatee for only a very brief moment during the second dive, which 1/2 the boat didn’t want to get back in. I don’t think any of us were prepared for how cold it was going to be, or how murky the water was. I wish we could have at least seen crystal springs and snorkeled where visibility was better. We made the best of it, but I would never do this again.Written 11 March 2024
- lawbrittain0 contributionsFriendly, knowledgeable, and we saw a manatee.We did a trip on March 9 at 6:30 am. We realized that we were late in the season and may not see any manatees. Captain Mike and Kendra worked diligently to make sure that we did see a manatee. I appreciate how the groups worked together to make sure that all tours got a chance to at least get a glimpse. We realize that this is animals in their natural environment and not a Disney ride. Captain Mike and Kendra provided a lot of information and knowledge about the manatees while they were searching. We enjoyed that almost as much as the manatee. I was a little nervous while in the close quarters seeing the manatee, but Kendra was very patient with me and insured i got the best view possible while at the same time respecting the manatee's space. We will definitely schedule another trip, but next time earlier in the season.Written 10 March 2024
- davidpN3863OY0 contributionsGreat time snorkeling with manatees!From Kari to captain Dave and Cory we had an awesome experience. Up close and personal with many many manatees. Several were very curious and were very friendly . My wife made a friend for life as one wrapped its arms around her and twirled for a few minutes. Saw adults and babies as well as many fish species! Captain Dave and the whole gang were very knowledgeable and took time to share and answer any questions. Thank you so much! Highly recommend.Written 7 March 2024
- Tracy N0 contributionsPlantation’s Kings Bay Scenic Cruise - Not a MustThe King’s Bay scenic cruise was fair. It did contain a lot of information regarding the area, but it was hardly scenic. Not much to see. Not a horrible thing to do if you have nothing else going on, but if you have a full schedule, you will not be missing much if you skip this.Written 6 March 2024
- Resort423359066630 contributionsLove those Manatee faces!We were booked for a manatee experience through Beatrice Bradley. As we were staying at the Plantation we only walked a short distance to the Adventure Center where they assisted us with donning wet suits (an experience in and of itself), they took us out in a small boat, instructed us in how to use our snorkels ( that I've never done before), and then eased us into the water to snorkel. We had an attentive, informative, woman as our group leader and a humorous boat Captain. We saw many manatees, many with babies, and some of us inadvertently were touched by these curious, gentle " sea cows". The experience was phenomenal and I highly recommend it!Written 5 March 2024
- cindaw20160 contributionsA good time for the familyBeautiful views and relaxing tour. We didn’t see many manatees but there were a lot of birds and the weather was perfect.Written 5 March 2024
- N2776XSsusans0 contributionsNice HotelNice hotel. Old but clean. Great for boaters as they have docks to tie ip your boat. Staff very friendly and helpful. They have a Starbucks on site in the lobby.Written 3 March 2024
- 446whitneyt0 contributionsGreat day on the riverWe had such an amazing time today. Even with the warmer weather we still had multiple up close encounters with the manatees. Our guides were awesome!Written 1 March 2024
- Sunshine216075720100 contributionsDon't miss this opportunity!Go! It was a blast! Our captain Aaron was knowledgeable, friendly, and courteous! Our diver Laura was very enthusiastic and took time to find answers to questions asked! Will do again and be asking for the same crew!Written 1 March 2024
- I9888MSmelissar0 contributionsBest experience ever!Such a great experience! Cory was amazing with my five year old daughter. Swam with her all the way out there on his back and there were manatees everywhere. Capt Dave was awesome too! Highly recommend!Written 29 February 2024
- Z7077ASjanem0 contributionsDo EVERY visit!Captain Mark and Captain Laura were amazing! We received a lot of safety information, and they obviously were there to keep us safe as well as protect the Manatees. It was an amazing and humbling experience. Highly recommend!Written 27 February 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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1,602 reviews
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BonitaBulldog
Bonita Springs, FL58 contributions
We enjoyed this amazing excursion so much in January that we had to return. This time our weekday early morning outing was just two of Adventure Center’s boats, each with groups of five. Our guide, Capt. John, was calming and reassuring in introducing the newbies in our group to the water, and the manatees didn’t disappoint. We were greeted by at least six, including a still-weaning kiddo who was very interested in us. We spent nearly two hours in the water with these gentle giants, just floating around in the five-mil wetsuits (and thickness does make a difference!) enjoying a truly unforgettable experience.
Written 30 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lysa B
4 contributions
Mar 2020
My aunt and I traveled from the west coast to the east coast to cross off the one and only item on both of our bucket lists-swimming with the manatees. The Adventure Center at Plantation on Crystal River did not disappoint. Our co-captains were Mark and Misty and they are the absolute best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They were so awesome! They were so knowledgeable, funny, patient, helpful and we highly recommend them to anyone coming to Crystal River for this adventure. They knew exactly what they were doing, we never doubted their experience or capabilities. They took us everywhere the manatees were and we were able to experience them at three different locations. It was an absolute dream come true and they surpassed all expectations. We could not be more happy with our experience. It was epic and life changing!
Written 16 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Donna S
Spring Hill10 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
My husband and I had a great time on the snorkel interaction tour with the manatees. Steve and John were our guides and worked so hard to make sure our group had a successful manatee sighting, in spite of the fact that the day was warm for the season, so most of the manatees were further out in the gulf. They finally located a mother and her baby, and John literally took my hand and led me right over to the pair of manatee, and made sure all the members in our group had a chance to see the magnificent creatures! They then took us to a clear spring area that allowed us to see some beautiful fish and provided interesting facts on the location. Both men were fun to interact with and were truly dedicated to their job. Highly recommend this tour and if possible, go on a colder day when the manatees would be more plentiful!
Written 20 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KrizFam
Waukesha, WI12 contributions
Mar 2020
This was an excellent location and people are great. They provide very thick wet suits, so thick that we floated with just the wet suits. We saw other people that needed to use noodles in the water. Our guide Dustin made sure EVERYONE in the group saw a manatee up close. He would pull each individual in the water so we could see the face of at least one manatee - we saw at 5 manatees. Our trip was late in the season, March 21, 2020. Most manatees have left by then. We also went on the first trip of the day - 8:00am. If you are near Crystal River definitely stop here. Since we were on the first trip of the day, we had time to go back to our hotel and shower before driving north.
Written 17 April 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michelle Szed
1 contribution
Feb 2021 • Friends
Absolutely fabulous experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. I can't wait to do it again. I'm glad I did a little research and picked these guys. Captain Mike was a stolid presence of safety, and we felt at ease in his capable hands as he piloted our boat. Captain John was so much fun, and I'm so glad he really impressed upon us the importance of "passive observation," and helped us just float and relax. They provided floating wetsuits too, which made it super easy. Little tip: don't get back on the boat early before the rest of your group is ready. Winter is when you will see the most manatees. The spring-fed water is warmish all year, but the air is COLD in February! Luckily our boat was enclosed to protect us from the wind, and Captain Mike had hot cocoa and coffee ready. There is a quick 5 minute trip back to the dock, where private bathrooms/changing rooms and a hot shower awaited us. I'm so sorry that the tour companies are suffering due to Covid-19, but it really was nice to have such a small group of five people on our tour. It's amazing how little it cost per person to take the five of us out there. Y'all tip your captains - they really do deserve it. We will be back!
Written 3 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Becca Smith
3 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
Laura, Dustin, Mark and John were awesome! They were super knowledgeable and great with our 7 year-old daughter. We enjoyed a sunset cruise and two manatee snorkeling trips.
We spoke to several people who did manatee trips with other groups and nobody had as positive as our family. The boat ride to King’s Bay was about 5 minutes and we were one of the first boats there at 7am. One morning it was 37 degrees, they had 5 mill wetsuits that kept us warm and coffee/hot chocolate on the boat after our swim. Captain Mark made a hot water bath for our little girl. We saw so many manatees on that cold morning and Captain John helped spot some eagles too.
The Adventure Center’s crew is the BEST! Captains Laura and Dustin lead our sunset cruise and one of our manatee trips. They answered all of our questions, got to know our family, and were so patient with our daughter. Captains Mark and John lead our second manatee trip. It was so cold and our daughter was so scared, but Captain John swam in and saved the day.
I have been dreaming of swimming with the manatees for years and the Adventure Center fulfilled all of my expectations. We are definitely going back and we will only going with the Adventure Center.
We spoke to several people who did manatee trips with other groups and nobody had as positive as our family. The boat ride to King’s Bay was about 5 minutes and we were one of the first boats there at 7am. One morning it was 37 degrees, they had 5 mill wetsuits that kept us warm and coffee/hot chocolate on the boat after our swim. Captain Mark made a hot water bath for our little girl. We saw so many manatees on that cold morning and Captain John helped spot some eagles too.
The Adventure Center’s crew is the BEST! Captains Laura and Dustin lead our sunset cruise and one of our manatee trips. They answered all of our questions, got to know our family, and were so patient with our daughter. Captains Mark and John lead our second manatee trip. It was so cold and our daughter was so scared, but Captain John swam in and saved the day.
I have been dreaming of swimming with the manatees for years and the Adventure Center fulfilled all of my expectations. We are definitely going back and we will only going with the Adventure Center.
Written 10 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
usandy
Lakeland, FL96 contributions
Feb 2022
Captains Kip and Corey were great! Very knowledgable, experienced and most of all, patient with passengers needing time to aclimate to snorkeling! We could not have asked for a better crew, and while we were told we may not see manatees, Kip and Corey found a dozen or more, even a mom with two calfs!
I think you will enjoy the experience! Keep in mind if the weather is warm, the manatees may be in murkey water, and only go to the clear springs when the weather is really cold.
But Kip took us to a clear spring after our manatee experience so we could enjoy the ecosystem of the bay.
If you have enough people, you might want to rent the whole boat. There were six of us and it was just $12 more per person to rent the boat. That made a big difference in our enjoyment.
I think you will enjoy the experience! Keep in mind if the weather is warm, the manatees may be in murkey water, and only go to the clear springs when the weather is really cold.
But Kip took us to a clear spring after our manatee experience so we could enjoy the ecosystem of the bay.
If you have enough people, you might want to rent the whole boat. There were six of us and it was just $12 more per person to rent the boat. That made a big difference in our enjoyment.
Written 2 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ashley E
3 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
Absolutely an amazing experience!! First off, Dustin & Christian were hands down amazing. Very sociable, informative, and made sure to leave no one out of the experience! We were able to see a mama and her baby, and unfortunately it was the only two we were able to see while diving BUT it was worth EVERY PENNY. Dustin made sure everyone had the chance to get an up close experience with the manatees, he realized I wasn’t seeing the manatees and came over and pulled me to them. He made sure he took photos of everyone, literally no one was left out. Both of the guys really knew the area and answered all of our questions. This was our honeymoon/baby moon getaway and it was PERFECT. not only did we swim with the manatees but after we rented kayaks from the same place and stayed on the water for the rest of the day. No doubt we will be back & might have even turned into our family getaway spot! Thanks guys for everything you do!!
Written 27 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
7wonderstraveler
Hugo, MN1,176 contributions
Nov 2020 • Couples
This was a great experience to see the manatees in their natural habitat up close. We had Captain Ed and Captain Dustin. Captain Dustin was so wonderful at spotting the manatees for us and made sure we all had a chance to see them. He explained that we need to just relax and not kick, unfortunately, most everyone in the group would kick and move their arms which could hinder a few from seeing this amazing creature. Captain Dustin came to the rescue and moved a few of us so we could view in a better spot. This was a fascinating tour and I’m so happy I finally have this checked off my travel list. Thanks to a wonderfully organized tour with wet suits, snorkel gear, coffee, water and toweIs on board. I highly recommend this tour as you don’t need a noodle or a life jacket while in the water because they have the best wetsuits (5 mil) that have great buoyancy.
Written 16 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rhiannon627
Crystal River, FL7 contributions
Feb 2020
I live in Crystal River (born and raised) and had never gone out on the water to solely hang with the manatees. I'm so glad I went on this tour, I had so many interactions! Please, please, PLEASE be passive when around manatees, seriously just float around and they will come to you! Lots of them are super curious and will hang on to you or just stare right in your face. Captains Libby and Memphis were very knowledgeable and kind to everyone. Libby was great in the water guiding everyone and keeping a nervous child calm. Go on an early tour if you can (getting up before the sun is worth it!) and bring a dry change of clothes and towel for after your trip. Bringing your own camera may be worth it if you want your own photos, but your guide will take some photos for you. Sometimes just having the experience is better than worrying about your camera :)
Written 9 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christina R
1 contribution
Are you able to see a decent amount of manatees in summer months as well?
Sue P
2 contributions
We swam with a mom and baby and we saw a large male swimming alone near by.
Do you supply the noodles to help you float during the tour?
Dave C
Monroe, UT113 contributions
They use 5mm wetsuits that have great flotation but I do believe the had floaties available.
How much are the photos?
kathy s
Naples, FL1 contribution
The cost was $40 for a thumb drive that looked like a little manatee (so cute). I got a few good shots of myself, still and video. I felt it was worth it. You can bring a go pro and take your own photos and videos.
We anticipate to arrive April 2nd. How many manatees would be in the water roughly in years past experience? I have always wanted to do this and heading there for business. If you think that there will be few and far between manatees then I can come back winter of 2023
Catherine W
1 contribution
We went last month and there were an amazing amount. I would suggest calling the venue directly and ask. The guides and captains were very knowledgeable and friendly so I am sure they will be honest and let you know what to expect in April.
Kat L
Atlanta, GA68 contributions
Hi! I’m not a water person, but my daughters want to do this. Is it the same price if I stay in the boat? Lol
Travel Bug
Boalsburg, PA37 contributions
Two members of our party didn't swim with the manatees, and they received a discounted price. I don't recall what the discount was though. We all had a really good time!
sph39
Indianapolis9 contributions
Hi we live just south of Tampa so can come up now or in the winter months but wanted to know if there are as many manatees in the water now as in the winter months? I want to be sure to swim with the manatees so can you advise if I should wait or not?
thank you
Marie
2 contributions
We went in May and saw 2 manatees. The guide told us that in the winter months, there are hundreds. I’d wait until it was cooler to go.
perskie
Bronx, NY30 contributions
Where is the exact meeting place for this snorkeling trip? I will be coming from Tampa. I don't have an idea but I want to experience this.