Experience the real Florida with a Crystal River Manatee Swim. Get up-close with gentle manatees and explore the beauty of Crystal River and Homosassa State Wildlife Park.
- Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge - The boat will drive into the wildlife refuge where you will hope to see wild manatees on the river. You will be on the boat at least 90 mins.
- Homosassa River - We will visit the State Park at Homosassa. You will walk around the State Park and see the animals and view the manatees in the underwater viewing chamber at this hospital facility for injured manatees. There is also a cafe at the park so you could purchase lunch here if you wish, or if you prefer to pack yourself a picnic they do have picnic tables you can use inside the park.
- Crystal River - Upon arrival at the picturesque Crystal River, you will enjoy a fabulous narrated boat tour. You will be provided masks, snorkels & fins, and encouraged to swim alongside these friendly creatures under the guidance of certified dive masters.
The manatees are endangered and have come to the Florida springs year-round to find shelter and food. In the winter months the manatee population can reach several hundred and during summer, the average count is 80. They are “gentle giants” and have no teeth.
After your cruise, you head to Homosassa State Wildlife Park, famous throughout Florida for the rehabilitation of injured animals. It is here you’ll have the chance to see the current manatee residents at the park during an informative and entertaining feeding session with one of the park rangers. You’ll also see bears, panthers, alligators and even a hippo as you explore the rest of the park.
Roundtrip transport from the Orlando area and a knowledgeable driver-guide is also included.
- Withlacoochee River - If the ‘Manatee Swim, Park & Airboat’ package is reserved then a 30 minute airboat ride on the Withlacoochee River will be included.
- Airboat Ride on Tuesday and Thursday tours
- Admission into Homosassa State Park
- Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
- Driver/guide
- Picnic Lunch
- River cruise to look for the manatees
- Use of snorkel equipment, mask, snorkel and fins
- Gratuities
- Wetsuits must be hired - Mandatory $15 fee
- Breakfast
- Airboat Ride on Saturdays - tour is priced lower
Come and enjoy the real Florida! Get up-close with the gentle manatee and see the beauty of Crystal River as you explore the Homosassa State Wildlife Park.
The tour heads up to Crystal River where you can snorkel or swim in the rivers where wild manatees live. It’s an early morning departure, so bring breakfast snacks to eat during the journey.
Following a safety briefing and collecting your mask, snorkel & fins (wetsuit hire is $15 and required for swimmers) you board the boat. When manatees are spotted you can get into the river for great photos. If you prefer, you can opt to simply enjoy the boat ride while enjoying nature.
In the afternoon explore Homosassa State Park. The park is home to many species of rescued native wildlife.
If you purchase the Florida Adventure Tour fully inclusive option, you will also ride a Wild Airboat Ride on a river to spot the alligators and nature and enjoy a picnic lunch.
- A small amount of walking is involved at your leisure through the State Park
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
