The OG Manatee Snorkel Tour With In-Water Guide/Photographer

A thrilling opportunity to swim alongside majestic manatees, guided by knowledgeable crews and a skilled photographer, for an unforgettable adventure in their natural habitat.

Let’s explore the captivating world of the OG Manatee Snorkel Tour, where we’ll have the chance to swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Imagine the thrill of witnessing these unique creatures up close, guided by experienced crews and a talented in-water photographer. With exclusive access and a personalized experience, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave us with lasting memories. As we uncover the details of this remarkable opportunity, we’ll discover why it’s a must-do for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

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

Key Points

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  • Intimate manatee snorkeling experience with a maximum of 10 travelers.
  • Opportunity to see 40-50 endangered manatees in their natural habitat.
  • Experienced guides and crew provide all necessary equipment, including wetsuits.
  • Complementary photo package to capture the memorable moments.
  • Convenient meeting location at River Ventures in Crystal River, Florida.

Tour Overview

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The OG Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Guide/Photographer allows us to swim and snorkel with endangered manatees in their natural habitat within the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in King’s Bay, Crystal River, USA.

This 2,056-review tour is 98% recommended with a Badge of Excellence. Our knowledgeable guides and USCG Master Captain will provide an immersive experience to get up close with these gentle giants.

With a maximum capacity of 10 travelers, we’ll have the chance to see 40-50 manatees during the tour and capture memorable moments with the included photographer service.

Inclusions

Experienced guides and crew provide everything needed for this immersive manatee snorkeling adventure.

We equip you with a mask, snorkel gear, and a full-length wetsuit in all sizes to ensure your comfort in the cool waters.

Stay hydrated with bottled water, coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. An introductory video orients you to the experience in multiple languages.

You’ll also receive a photo package you can purchase to document your encounter with these gentle giants.

All gratuities are included, so you can relax and focus on the incredible wildlife.

Meeting Details

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River Ventures, located at 498 SE Kings Bay Dr, Crystal River, FL 34429, USA, is where we’ll meet for the tour.

We should arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time. From there, we’ll board the boat and embark on our manatee snorkeling adventure.

At the end of the tour, we’ll return to the same meeting point.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 3 aren’t allowed. All travelers will be charged the adult price, regardless of age.

If we need to cancel, we can do so for free up to 24 hours before the experience.

Important Information

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For this tour, accessibility is limited, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 3 aren’t allowed.

Adult pricing applies to all travelers, regardless of age.

We recommend wearing a swimsuit under your clothes for a quick check-in, and bringing warm clothes for after the tour, as the water temperature can be chilly.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.

Manatee Encounters

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During the tour, we’ve the incredible opportunity to swim alongside dozens of these gentle, marine mammals in their natural habitat.

As we glide through the crystal-clear waters of King’s Bay, we marvel at the graceful movements of the manatees as they surface to breathe, feed, and socialize.

Our knowledgeable guide provides expert commentary, sharing fascinating insights into the lives and behaviors of these endangered species.

With care and respect, we observe the manatees from a safe distance, capturing unforgettable moments through our snorkel gear and cameras.

This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that brings us closer to the wonders of the natural world.

Photographer’s Perspective

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As intrepid underwater photographers, we revel in the opportunity to capture the grace and beauty of these manatees through our lenses.

Our in-water guide accompanies us, ensuring we maintain a respectful distance and don’t disturb the creatures.

With our waterproof cameras, we freeze moments of these gentle giants gliding effortlessly through the crystal-clear waters, their whiskered faces and bulbous bodies a sight to behold.

We delight in preserving these magical encounters, sharing the manatees’ tranquil splendor with others through our vivid imagery, a testament to the wonders of the natural world.

Preparing for Your Tour

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To make the most of your manatee snorkel tour, we recommend arriving at the meeting point 15 minutes early. This allows ample time to get suited up and watch the introductory video.

Be sure to wear a swimsuit underneath warm clothing, as you’ll want to stay cozy after your in-water encounter. While the tour provides towels, consider bringing an extra one to dry off.

An underwater camera is highly recommended to capture your magical moment swimming alongside these gentle giants. With the right preparation, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on the OG Manatee Snorkel Tour.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

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Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s clear the OG Manatee Snorkel Tour offers an exceptional wildlife experience.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, great customer service, and the chance to see 40-50 manatees up close. They highlight the memorable experience of swimming with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

To make the most of your tour, reviewers recommend bringing a towel, dry clothes, and an underwater camera.

The tour is highly recommended for families and first-time snorkelers alike, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Beginners With No Snorkeling Experience?

Yes, this tour is suitable for beginners with no snorkeling experience. The full-length wetsuits, snorkel gear, and in-water guide support first-time snorkelers, making it an accessible and memorable introduction to swimming with manatees.

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour?

The typical group size for this tour is a maximum of 10 travelers. This small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience as you explore the natural habitat of the endangered manatees.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Underwater Camera?

You don’t need to bring your own underwater camera, as a photo package is available for purchase. However, if you have an underwater camera and want to capture your own memories, feel free to bring it along.

Are Photos and Videos Taken by the Guide Provided?

Yes, a photo package is available for purchase after the tour. The in-water guide/photographer takes photos and videos of your memorable experience swimming with the manatees, which you can opt to buy as a keepsake.

Can I Touch or Feed the Manatees During the Tour?

No, you cannot touch or feed the manatees during the tour. Manatees are protected wildlife, and interacting with them in this way is prohibited to ensure their safety and well-being. We’ll observe the manatees from a respectful distance.

The Sum Up

The OG Manatee Snorkel Tour offers an unforgettable experience to swim and snorkel with endangered manatees in Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. With a knowledgeable guide, photographer, and complimentary gear, we’ll enjoy an intimate adventure and capture precious moments with these gentle giants. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a family-friendly activity, this highly recommended tour is sure to create memories that’ll last a lifetime.

📍 This experience made our list of the 10 best Photography Experiences in Crystal River