Private Swim with Manatees Adventure in Crystal River
About this experience
Splash into Florida's beautiful Crystal River and swim alongside a majestic wild manatee!
No Expiration
DatesFlexible
BookingFree
ExchangesInstant
Delivery
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
- Secure your snorkel mask and experience the thrill of swimming with gentle manatees
- Be on the lookout for other wildlife such as dolphins, river otters, bald eagles, and more
- Discover the beauty of Florida's wilderness with this 3-hour private manatee adventure!
What happens on the day
Featuring warm, spring-fed waters, the Crystal River is home to the largest population of manatees in America. See these beautiful creatures up close and in their natural habitat during this Private Swim with Manatees Adventure!
Your incredible day will kick off when you board a comfortable and spacious boat. You’ll be equipped with a snorkel, mask, wetsuit, and a snorkeling vest. Once everyone has their gear, your certified captain will cruise down the Indian River to the breathtaking Crystal River.
Along the way, your guide will share fascinating facts about the flora and fauna of Florida. Keep your eyes open for wildlife including dolphins, river otters, bald eagles, and other bird species.
Dip into the Crystal River’s warm waters and see if you can spot any manatees. 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.
Perfect for friends, families, and nature lovers, this private excursion will introduce you to one of Florida's most enchanting creatures!
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.
