Swim with Manatees Adventure in Crystal River
About this experience
Interact with one of Florida's most enchanting creatures with this incredible Swim with Manatees Adventure!
No Expiration
DatesFlexible
BookingFree
ExchangesInstant
Delivery
Great fun! Our guide was very knowledgeable and an expert at finding manatees. Our boat captain was experienced and skilled at navigating the shallow waters. We will go again with friends!
What's Included
- Join a team of passionate professionals for an unforgettable animal encounter
- Board a comfortable watercraft and cruise to the stunning Crystal River
- Experience the serenity of swimming alongside a gentle manatee
- Snorkels, masks, wetsuits, and snorkel vests will be provided
- Keep an eye out for other wildlife including dolphins and river otters during this 3-hour adventure!
What happens on the day
Also known as sea cows, manatees are some of the most loveable creatures on Earth. During this incredible experience, you’ll have the opportunity to see these animals up close and in their natural habitat.
Upon arrival, you’ll be equipped with high-quality snorkeling equipment including a mask, vest, and a wetsuit. Once everyone has their gear, you’ll be welcomed aboard a comfortable and spacious boat. Your fully certified captain will cruise down the Indian River before entering the gorgeous Crystal River. Known for its warm, spring-fed waters, this river is a safe haven for manatees all year long.
Once a manatee has been spotted, it’s time to slip into the water! Dip your head under the surface and watch as these gentle giants eat, sleep, and glide gracefully through the water. If you’re lucky, one may even swim alongside you! Time permitting, you may also be able to snorkel the crystal-clear Three Sisters Spring.
While out in the Florida wilderness, keep an eye out for other wildlife such as dolphins, river otters, and even bald eagles!
Treat yourself or a loved one to a once-in-a-lifetime experience with this Swim with Manatees Adventure!
Location
Locations shown shouldn't be used for route planning
Availability
When Do I Choose A Date?
Either yourself or the lucky recipient can make a booking and select dates once you are in receipt of the voucher. You’ll register the voucher, follow the booking instructions, and your experience with us begins!
Year-Round:
Daily - 7:30 AM, 11:30 AM
Important Details
Essential Information
- No snorkeling experience necessary
- We recommend having some previous swimming experience
- All ages welcome
- Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
- Snorkels, snorkel masks, wetsuits, and snorkel vests will be provided
- All participants must follow all rules and regulations when interacting with wildlife
- Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed
Duration
Experience Provider Info
Maximum Participants
Spectators
Weather Dependent
What to Wear
FAQs
Am I guaranteed to see a manatee?
Florida's manatees are wild. While manatee sightings are not guaranteed, it is rare not to see any. Your guide will do their best to ensure that you observe these animals in the wild.
Can I interact with the manatees?
Guests are allowed to snorkel and observe the manatees in their natural habitat. Some manatees enjoy interacting with people while others prefer to eat, sleep and swim while being left alone. If a manatee chooses to initiate contact, you may be able to interact with the animal. All participants will be shown a video on how to properly treat these animals.
Are manatees friendly?
Yes! While the size of these animals may seem intimidating, they are gentle and docile creatures.
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
There are no restrooms on board. However, all boats have marina access on the river and can dock for public bathroom use as needed.
When is the best time to see manatees?
Early morning tours tend to be the best time to find manatees. Your chances of seeing a manatee are best when it is cold. Manatees are not as common when it is warm.
Returns, Exchanges & Cancellations
Returns
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be returned hassle-free within 14 days. All refunds will be made to the original purchaser.
Exchanges
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be exchanged for anything else in our marketplace at any time. If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs more, you'll simply have to pay the difference. If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs less, you'll have a credit towards your next booking with Virgin Gifts.
Cancellation Policy
Once you have received a booking confirmation, cancellations and rescheduling are allowed up to 72 hours prior to the experience. Failure to appear on your booked date or to cancel and reschedule at least 72 hours prior to your booked date will result in the loss of the value of your experience. In the event that your tour is cancelled due to inclement weather, you will be able to reschedule directly with the experience provider.
Customer Reviews
Great fun! Our guide was very knowledgeable and an expert at finding manatees. Our boat captain was experienced and skilled at navigating the shallow waters. We will go again with friends!
This was really fun. My wife and I went on our honeymoon and swam with a bunch of manatees. One of the baby’s even swam up to each of our faces to look at us (they are so curious)! Our guides were entertaining and gave us a lot of really interesting information about surrounding wildlife on the boat ride there and back.
Virgin connected us with the top rated tour in the area. It was well worth the money and time spent. Incredible experience! I highly recommend.
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