The No-Park Adventures on Florida's Nature Coast

“Join us on The Nature Coast for adventures that range from ‘Mild to Wild’! Cruise on one of our air boats, harvest scallops in the Gulf of Mexico or enjoy a privilege that is exclusively ours:
to snorkel with manatees!”

Featured Tours

Manatee Tour & Education Center | Airboats | Scalloping | LODGING

Seasonal Tour Conditions

Remember this is a ‘Wildlife Experience’ which means that seasons, weather, time of day, tides etc… all play an important role in determining your chances for the ultimate manatee encounter. Please inform yourself and have realistic expectations when considering taking a manatee tour with River Ventures.

Learn More

Winter - Welcome to manatee season!

Spring and Fall – The Transitional seasons

Summer – The Manatee Safari

Responsible Tourism

This last year has brought a whole new set of challenges to our community, with increased visitors seeking outdoor adventures, we have more visitors than ever! Since we are a small community focused around a wildlife refuge, keeping our resources clean and undisturbed is a top priority. We want to share our unique place with you and every visitor, but request your help in visiting responsibly to preserve our area for future generations. Here are a few things you can do to help while visiting:

Mind Your Manatee Manners

Manatees are a huge draw to the area and are protected by many federal regulations. If you are unsure of these rules, please join a tour with a reputable company to lead the way and show you how to be respectful towards these majestic mammals that call the Crystal River Wildlife Refuge home.

Practice Safe Boating

Our area has many speed zones to protect the slow-moving manatees, be sure to follow them. Be respectful towards other boaters on the water, and minimize your wake for kayaks. Allow boats with motors to stay in the channel, paddle craft should stay to the side of the waterways where bigger boats cannot go. Sharing the waterways allows everyone to enjoy their adventure.

Leave No Trace

Leave nothing behind but your footprints, so the people after you can enjoy the pristine refuge too. Dispose of trash properly, pick up floating trash and take it with you.