The Florida manatee is an endangered marine animal related to the elephant and the state marine mammal of Florida. Though found in the waters of some other states at certain times of the year, manatees are mostly found in Florida. The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, which has several springs that remain at 72 degrees year round, is a sanctuary for many of these animals and home of many manatee tour providers. Here are five tour providers that will take you on a great adventure and teach you how to respect the manatees you encounter along the way.
River Ventures
River Ventures is a 15-year-old family-owned company that offers manatee tours year-round. They offer a great value at $45 per person with all gear provided, and their tours are led by U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains. CDs of high-res photos of tours are available for purchase after your excursion.
Plantation on Crystal River
Plantation on Crystal River is a golf resort and spa that’s big on southern hospitality. Their manatee snorkel tour is $55/person and includes gear, towels, hot chocolate, coffee, showers, heated changing facilities and free parking.
Birds Underwater Dive Center
Birds Underwater Dive Center has been offering guided tours since 1989. Their manatee tours are $55/person and include wetsuit and snorkeling gear for the tour and soft drinks and snacks on the boat afterward.
Manatee Tours USA
Manatee Tours USA offers manatee tours and dives year-round. They offer several packages — including swimming with manatees or just photographing them — and have highly experienced, knowledgeable captains. Their tours cost $39/adult during the summer and $49/adult the rest of the year. Children get access for $24.50 all year round and those under the age of 3 get free access with each adult ticket.
Crystal River Manatees
Crystal River Manatees provide manatee tours and swimming adventures by reservation only. The provide wetsuits and gear and welcome underwater photo and video cameras. The minimum charge for a tour is $210 or $70/person for groups of three or more.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Dec 19, 20244 Hotels to Stay at for 2025 Sporting Events
Diehard sports fans often travel near and far to watch their favorite teams. With plenty of exciting sporting events taking place in 2025, these hotels offer a respite for sports fanatics after the events.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Dec 19, 2024Postcard Cabins Brand Now Part of Marriott
More than 1,200 glamping cabins recently joined Marriott in an acquisition set to bring more travelers closer to nature. Postcard Cabins, formerly Getaway, was founded in 2015 with the mission to bring free time in nature to more people.
Destinations / Europe
Dec 18, 2024Why You Should Visit Florence in January
Ready to book your first 2025 getaway? Consider Florence, Italy, for two can’t-miss events in January.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Hotel
Dec 18, 2024Brookmere Debuts Today in Saratoga Springs, New York
Brookmere debuts today in Saratoga Springs, New York, for its soft opening. Situated on 10 acres near many of Saratoga Springs’ iconic attractions, this property boasts 88 guestrooms and suites alongside a host of well-appointed amenities.
ShareThis