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      Swim With The Manatees - Manatee Snorkel Tours

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Now offering 3 separate and unique tours on the Homosassa and Crystal Rivers
 

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Manatee Tours Conducted 7 days a week.

We are not your ordinary Manatee tour

 

Frequently Asked Questions
In order to assist you in planning, we have compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions. This should help you to learn about us and assist you in making reservations. We have provided directions to both the Nature Coast and to our pickup point. Swimming with the manatees has been described as a spiritual experience. Additionally we have provided information on things to do in the local area, including accommodations and dining establishments. Our hope is that your visit will be memorable as well as fun.

Question Answer
1. How much does it cost?
US $50 Crystal River and Homosassa River, includes wetsuit, mask, fins, snorkel, and FREE underwater camera with each tour booked.
2. What is your cancellation policy? We require a 7 day notice on cancellations in order to receive a refund. This will ensure that we can rebook your seat since our policy is to only allow 15 persons per trip.
3. Are you available for group tours? To ensure comfort for our passengers and the tranquility of the manatees we only schedule up to 15 persons on our 24 passenger tour boat.
4. Do you do dive instruction? Yes, our associate is a certified PADI instructor. Click here for additional information.
5. Do you do scuba diving trips? Yes. We have partners that will accommodate you for diving the King's Springs in Crystal River. Call 561.716.7099 for more information.
6. Are there close by accommodations or home rentals? For overnight lodging we recommend the The Riverside Resort (352-628-2474). The Park Inn (800-670-7275 or
352-628-4311), and McRae's (352-628-2602) .  For more information and other accommodations please click here.  Accommodations 
7. How do I find you? Here are driving directions to the Nature Coast, Homosassa, and Crystal River, Florida. Directions
Driving times are: 1.5-2 hours from Orlando, Tampa, Gainesville; 3 hours from Jacksonville; 3 hours from Sarasota; 3.5 hours from Tallahassee; 6 hours from Miami.
8. Where do I meet you for the tour? Depends on which tour you are taking. Click here to view maps to our tours.
9. Are there age limits? There are no age limits, just the ability to swim.
10. Why do you recommend wet suits? The water temperature in the Crystal River and Homosassa River is a constant 72 degrees year around. This may seem warm but prolonged exposure could result in hypothermia. Therefore we recommend a wetsuit. 
11. How long will we be in the water? Manatee tours last approximately 3-3.5 hours.
12. What sort of protection from the weather can we expect aboard the tour boat? Our boat is covered with clear plastic that can be raised or lowered and our boat is heated. Since we are only minutes from the springs weather is rarely a concern. However, we will cancel because of lightning activity. 
13. Where do I change clothes? You can change into a wetsuit in our shop. Additionally we have a curtained area on the boat that can be closed off to ensure privacy while changing. 
14. What do I need to bring? Bathing suit and towel. A sweat suit is recommended for after the swim.
15. How do I snorkel? I've never snorkeled before. Your captain or mate will assist you in the water. For most it only takes a few minutes to become accustomed to snorkeling.
16. How big are the manatees? Manatees can reach up to 2000 lbs or more but are very gentle and curious mammals that love to play. They may even roll over and let you scratch their bellies. For more facts click on Manatee information.
17. How deep is the water? The Homosassa River averages 3-10 feet deep.
The Crystal River is somewhat deeper.
18. Can I take pictures? Yes, it sometimes seems the manatees are posing for you. 
19. What else is there to do in the area? Capt Mike has compiled a list of things to do in our area and most do not require a reservation. Ask him for a copy when you arrive for your tour.
20. What times are your tours? Check our times on tour site.
21. Do you offer private swim tours? Yes, but only for groups of 15 or more or on our Ultimate VIP Tour (minimum 2, maximum 6 guests).
22. How about scalloping? Scalloping season is from July 1-Sept 10. Please visit our scallop page for more information.
23. Do you provide airport or hotel pickup?

Yes, from Orlando and Tampa. Our affiliate Wayne's Taxi can pick you up at the hotel or airport. Rates are $90 each way to/from Tampa and Orlando. We can accommodate up to 10 passengers.  For reservations call:  352.564.8294

We hope to see you soon and have a safe trip as always. Capt Mike

 

 

 


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