Small Group Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Guide and Photographer
Overview
Crystal River is home to beautiful fresh water springs, a large variety of wildlife, and or course our most famous residents - West Indian Manatees. During the Summer months, the Bay holds approximately 75 to 80 resident manatees.
Each winter between 700 and 1000 manatees migrate here seeking out our three first magnitude spring systems, each with a constant temperature of 72° to 74° F (23° C). Even in the warm summer months, Crystal River has a local population of 70-100 manatees that remain here year round. Due to efforts by many local, state and federal entities, our manatee population is thriving. We feel that an in-water swim experience is an important part of this education and conservation effort. Our team of highly trained in-water guides ensure your experience with this cherished and threatened species is handled with the utmost care and respect by encouraging passive observation.
With only 6 passengers per boat you are guaranteed a special small group interaction.
What's Included
- Tea and coffee Coffee and/or Tea
- Bottled water
- Heated Enclosed Pontoon Boat
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Wetsuit
- Towels, sunblock, sunglasses and hats are not included but highly encouraged.
- Gratuity for Captain and Crew (15% - 20% Standard)
Meeting Location
439 Northeast 1st Terrace
Crystal River, FL 34429, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Crystal River is the manatee capital of the world, and we are fortunate enough to be the only place where you can have the unique experience of swimming with these gentle giants in their own natural habitat!
Once you arrive at Salty Siren Tours the adventure begins! After checking in, you will be fitted with one of our high quality wetsuits. (All required gear is included in the cost of your charter.) From there, you'll meet your in-water guide and photographer who will discuss your upcoming manatee interaction and answer any questions you may have.
After we explain passive observation and how to properly interact in the water with our precious manatees, we will transport you to our departure location in our comfortable 15 passenger van. From there you will board your immaculately clean tour vessel for the experience of a lifetime!
During your trip your guide will escort you to passively observe and these majestic mammals. We also take underwater photos of your trip (which can be purchased for an additional fee) so you can share the manatee love!
CANCELLATION POLICY: 50% Refund if cancelled within 7 days of travel, non-refundable if cancelled within 72 hours of travel.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Please Note: Children 6 and under must be under adult passenger supervision at all times. Children six (6) and under must wear a life vest at all times when the boat is in motion.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
- Operated by a business
Frequently Asked Questions
(13)Q: Do you take pregnant customers snorkeling?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-358698P1
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.98 out of 5 stars based on 623 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (13)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Destinations customers.
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Yes, we allow pregnant women to go on snorkeling. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so to assess your individual health and pregnancy stage.
Jan 2022Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All Cool Destinations snorkeling tours adhere to strict safety regulations and have been designed to be enjoyed by all.
Your safety is our #1 priority, which is why:
- You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
- On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water so you won’t have to “jump” in!
- There are trained staff in the water and watching from the boat at all times.
For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips, however, the final judgment call is yours to make. Please note we do not give refunds if you decide not to snorkel on the trip.
Oct 2021The snorkel gear we use on Cool Destinations tours is high quality and for your protection, the equipment is sanitized after each use. However, if you feel more comfortable using your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it on the tour. Please note, there is no discount for providing your own equipment and we can’t be responsible for any lost or damaged items.
May 2023First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!
Oct 2021There are no legal age limits for snorkeling. We have found that age 5 or 6 is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling, however, it’s entirely up to individuals to make the best choice for their family.
Sep 2021If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Tea and coffee. Coffee and/or Tea.
- Bottled water.
- Heated Enclosed Pontoon Boat.
- Use of Snorkelling equipment.
- Wetsuit.
- Towels, sunblock, sunglasses and hats are not included but highly encouraged.
- Gratuity for Captain and Crew (15% - 20% Standard).
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025The minimum age to participate is 3. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Small Group Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Guide and Photographer is as follows:
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Please Note: Children 6 and under must be under adult passenger supervision at all times. Children six (6) and under must wear a life vest at all times when the boat is in motion.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Small Group Manatee Snorkel Tour with In-Water Guide and Photographer will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Destinations. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Tea and coffeeCoffee and/or Tea
- Bottled water
- Heated Enclosed Pontoon Boat
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Wetsuit
- Towels, sunblock, sunglasses and hats are not included but highly encouraged.
- Gratuity for Captain and Crew (15% - 20% Standard)
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Please Note: Children 6 and under must be under adult passenger supervision at all times. Children six (6) and under must wear a life vest at all times when the boat is in motion.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
- Operated by a business
