Swim With Manatees-Private Tour With in Water Guide/Photographer

Exploring the majestic world of manatees is an unforgettable experience. This private tour in Crystal River, Florida, offers an intimate encounter with these gentle sea creatures, guided by knowledgeable experts. With a focus on safety and personalized attention, guests can expect a smooth and seamless adventure, complete with a heated boat, snacks, and a professional photographer to capture every moment. Whether you’re a solo traveler or seeking a family-friendly activity, this tour promises an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories.

This experience made our article of Which Crystal River Photography Experiences To Choose? We Rank The 10 Best.

Key Points

• Private in-water experience guided by an expert photographer for up to 6 guests.
• 100% recommendation rate from past travelers, with guides praised for their comfort, safety, and knowledge.
• Includes safety video, equipment fitting, and transportation to and from the docks.
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible, suitable for families and solo travelers.
• Positive guest reviews highlighting the customized experience, small group size, and high-quality service.

Tour Overview

The Swim With Manatees Tour offers a private in-water experience guided by an expert photographer.

Praised by 41 travelers with a 100% recommendation rate, this tour provides an intimate encounter with the gentle manatees of Crystal River, USA.

Priced at $450 for up to 6 guests, the tour includes a safety video, equipment fitting, and transportation to the docks for boat boarding.

The activity ends back at the meeting point, with the use of snorkeling gear included.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, welcoming both families and solo travelers.

Meeting and Pickup

Where is the meeting point for the Swim With Manatees Tour? The tour begins at 200 NE US Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL 34429, USA.

Guests will start with a safety video and equipment fitting before being transported to the docks for boat boarding.

The tour includes the following:

• Transport provided to docks for boat boarding
• Activity ends back at the meeting point
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed, though infants must sit on laps

Most travelers can participate in this intimate and personalized manatee tour experience.

Inclusions and Accessibility

Included in the Swim With Manatees Tour are the use of snorkeling equipment.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Most travelers can participate in the experience.

The tour aims to be inclusive, catering to the needs of a diverse range of guests. This ensures everyone can enjoy the opportunity to swim with the gentle manatees and have a memorable, personalized tour.

The focus is on providing an accessible and safe experience for all participants.

Guest Experiences

Based on 41 reviews, the Swim With Manatees Tour enjoys a 5.0 rating from travelers.

Guests consistently praise the comfort and safety provided by the guides, with notable mentions of Captain Todd and Leah‘s exceptional care, especially for children.

The tour offers a personalized experience, unlike larger group outings:

• Positive feedback on the guides’ knowledge and patience
• Appreciation for the heated boat and provided snacks
• Opportunity to see multiple manatees in their natural habitat
• Highly recommended for families and those seeking a memorable encounter

Guests expressed enthusiasm to return for future tours.

Highlights and Recommendations

The Swim With Manatees Tour is highlighted by the exceptional guides and boat captain, who are noted for their extensive knowledge and patience.

Guests can enjoy a comfortable, heated boat with snacks provided, offering an opportunity to see multiple manatees up close.

This tour is highly recommended for families and those seeking a memorable experience, as evidenced by the overwhelmingly positive feedback from past participants.

Guests have expressed their intent to return for future tours, underscoring the tour’s ability to deliver a personalized and enjoyable adventure.

Getting to Crystal River

Located on the west coast of Florida, Crystal River is a picturesque coastal town that serves as the primary access point for the Swim With Manatees Tour.

Situated along the Crystal River, the town offers a variety of accommodations, dining, and entertainment options for visitors.

Getting to Crystal River is relatively straightforward:

• By air, the nearest major airport is Tampa International Airport, located about 90 minutes away.
• Driving to Crystal River is easy, with the town being accessible from I-75 and US-19.
• Public transportation options include shuttle services and rideshare platforms.
• Alternatively, visitors can explore the scenic nature of the area by taking a water taxi or boat.

What to Expect on the Tour

After arriving at the meeting point, guests begin the tour with a safety video and equipment fitting. Once prepared, guests are transported to the docks for boarding the tour boat. The tour offers a personalized experience with an in-water guide and photographer to enhance the encounter.

Tour Features	Included	Not Included
Snorkeling Equipment	✓	–
Wheelchair Accessibility	✓	–
Stroller Accessibility	✓	–
Service Animals Allowed	✓	–
Infant Seating	Lap	–

The tour ends back at the original meeting point, providing a seamless experience for guests seeking an intimate and memorable interaction with the manatees.

Why Choose This Private Manatee Tour

Travelers seeking an intimate and personalized encounter with the captivating manatees of Crystal River will find the Swim With Manatees Tour to be a compelling choice.

This private tour offers several advantages:

• Customized experience with a dedicated in-water guide and photographer to capture memorable moments
• Small group size (up to 6 guests) for a more personalized and attentive experience
• Positive guest reviews highlighting the care and expertise of the guides, especially with children
• Convenient amenities like a heated boat and snacks to enhance comfort during the tour

The tour’s high-quality service, access to multiple manatees, and commitment to guest satisfaction make it a top pick for those seeking an unforgettable manatee encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not appear to have a minimum age requirement. The information states that "infants must sit on laps," suggesting that infants and young children are permitted to participate in the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

According to the tour overview, the use of snorkeling equipment is included in the tour. Guests are not required to bring their own snorkeling gear, as it is provided as part of the included amenities.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

The tour includes an in-water guide/photographer who can capture photos of participants during the experience. Guests are welcome to bring their own cameras and photography equipment to document the encounter with the manatees.

Are Refreshments Provided Other Than Snacks?

The tour provides heated boat transportation and snacks during the experience. Additional refreshments beyond snacks are not explicitly mentioned in the overview information provided.

How Long Does the Entire Tour Experience Last?

The entire tour experience typically lasts 2-3 hours, covering the safety video, equipment fitting, boat transportation to and from the docks, and the in-water guided snorkel session with the manatees. Refreshments such as snacks are provided during the tour.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the magic of swimming with manatees on a private, personalized tour. With expert guides, safety measures, and amenities like a heated boat, this unforgettable experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Suitable for families and solo travelers, the tour boasts a 100% recommendation rate, ensuring an exceptional and memorable adventure.