Animal Encounter Crystal River

Overview


Join River Ventures for an unforgettable adventure on our heated, luxury pontoon boats, where you'll be treated like royalty. We keep it intimate with a maximum of 6 people per tour guided by our in-water HD photographer, ensuring a personal and high-end encounter.

Why book with River Ventures?


The ‘OG’ of Swim with Manatee : Dive into the world of manatees with the largest and most experienced center in Crystal River and Homosassa – since 2004!


Manatee Guarantee ($): No manatees? No worries, we’ll refund you.
Tour options for any budget: Save money or splurge, we have a tour for you.
Manatees, Dolphins & Airboats: Combo-Tours, book for the manatee and stay with the dolphins
Over 5000 5-star reviews online! Need we say more? 
Your A-Team: Expert guides, pirate captains, underwater photographers and booking wizards
Eco-Edutainment: In-classroom presentation. Learn from our passionate guides.

What makes this a VIP tour?


In – water Guide & Photographer




USCG Master Captain
Heated Vessel
Cushioned Boat Seats
Maximum Capacity of 6 people
Mask & Snorkel
Full length Wetsuit
Adult Beverages
Coffee, Hot Cocoa & Tea
Bottled Water & assorted sodas
Assorted snacks

Duration


3 Hour Tour

Meet up


Arrive 15 minutes prior to tour time
Location: 498 SE Kings Bay Drive, Crystal River, FL 34429

What to Expect




Begin your journey with a warm welcome from the most seasoned Crew in town at River Ventures Tour Center
Acquaint yourself with USFWS Manatee Encounter Rules and get fitted for a wetsuit in a classroom setting
Step aboard luxury pontoon boat with full isinglass enclosure and comforting warmth during winter
Experience exclusivity with a limited group of just 6 VIP passengers on this tour
Cruise in style through Kings Bay, Three Sisters Springs and more while searching for manatees
Swim with Manatee while Guide captures your experience with a cutting-edge HD action camera
Savor a selection of hot beverages, alcoholic drinks, refreshing sodas and assorted snacks on board
Conclude your experience at River Venture’s Tour Center, indulge in souvenir shopping and admire photos

Important Policies


Minimum of 3 people to operate, if the minimum is not met, you will be offered a different tour time.
Minimum Age to Participate in the Semi-Private VIP Tour is 3 Years old, please book all 6 seats or a private manatee tour (***add link) to bring younger passengers.
Dogs are not allowed on the Semi-Private VIP Tour, please book a private manatee tour (***add link) to bring your furry friend.

Expectations & Tour Conditions


Colder Weather = More manatees
Warmer Weather = Less manatees



We prioritize both the satisfaction of our customers and the safety of the Crystal River manatees. It is crucial to maintain realistic expectations when engaging in encounters with wild manatees since we cannot control their behavior or migration patterns. Typically, colder weather attracts a greater number of manatees, while warmer weather results in fewer sightings and more time spent searching for these gentle giants. Each trip is distinct, offering a unique experience for every individual. For detailed information on current conditions, we encourage you to visit our conditions page or contact us directly for more details.


THREE SISTERS SPRINGS is managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service who reserves the right to close the area to swimmers at any time. During cold spells when the animals are thermoregulating in the spring area, it will be closed to avoid harassment and ensure the animals can rest. We May or may not be able to access this one-acre spring (part of the 600-acre refuge area) and that is something we cannot predict from day to day.

The Manatee Guarantee


River Ventures is now offering an optional manatee guarantee upgrade! With our Manatee Guarantee, we eliminate the risk from your tour by assuring you'll have the opportunity to swim with manatees. In the event that you are unable to swim with manatees during your tour and you have chosen the optional upgrade prior to your tour, River Ventures will provide you with a full refund! The guarantee does not cover situations where a guest is unable or unwilling to participate in the activity or fails to adhere to instructions and rules provided by the River Ventures crew.

Additional Information


Exclusive Natural Encounters


Indulge in River Venture’s VIP Manatee Swim Tour in Crystal River, FL, crafted to offer a refined and respectful rendezvous with the Florida manatees. Our seasoned guides are dedicated to upholding the stringent USFWS guidelines, guaranteeing the well-being of the West Indian Manatee in their pristine natural habitat during your exclusive swim with the manatee tour.


All-Inclusive Luxuries


Commence your journey at River Ventures' full-service tour center. Here, your certified in-water guide and talented photographer will provide essential insights on proper manatee etiquette in a classroom setting and ensure a perfect wetsuit fit. Once prepared, join our esteemed USCG Master Captain on our luxury, covered and enclosed pontoon boats, setting forth to explore the realm of manatees in the Kings Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Crystal River, FL.


Seasoned Crew of Experts


Onboard, our highly knowledgeable crew will share their wisdom on manatee behavior and conservation efforts, enriching your Florida manatee encounter. As you immerse yourself in the spring fed waters of Crystal River, FL, anticipate an unforgettable swim with the manatee experience. Yet, the journey doesn't conclude there—keep your senses attuned to the wonders of wildlife during your boat tour of King's Bay, which may encompass Three Sisters Springs, Hunter Springs Park, and other local springs. From the initial manatee encounters to the finale with birds, fish, turtles, and perhaps even a dolphin, this tour unveils the uniqueness of our ecosystem, home to the Crystal River manatee.


A Once-in-a-Lifetime Affair


Join us today for the best swim and snorkel experience with manatees in Crystal River, FL. Our unwavering commitment to small group sizes ensures an intimate and personalized journey with only 6 participants on board. With comforting warmth provided, there's no need to brave the cold, and a selection of delectable snacks and beverages is readily available, so you won't go hungry. We go the extra mile so your bucket list adventure is a true luxury! Secure your spot on this extraordinary manatee swim tour now and make memories that will endure a lifetime.