Are you looking for an unforgettable adventure in Crystal River? Do you want to swim with the manatees in their natural habitat? If so, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about swimming and snorkeling with the Florida Manatee, one of the most enchanting experiences you can have in nature.

You’ll learn:

• What makes the manatees so special and why Crystal River is the best place to see them

• How to prepare for your manatee encounter and what to expect on the day of your tour

• How to swim with the manatees in a respectful and responsible way

• How to capture amazing photos and videos of your manatee experience

• And much more!

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

What are Manatees and Why are They So Amazing?

Manatees are large, aquatic mammals that belong to the order Sirenia, which also includes dugongs and sea cows. They are sometimes called “sea cows” because they graze on seagrasses and other aquatic plants.

Manatees are gentle, curious, and intelligent creatures that can grow up to 13 feet long and weigh over 3,000 pounds. They have a paddle-shaped tail, two flippers, a whiskered snout, and a huge set of lungs that allow them to stay underwater for up to 20 minutes.

Manatees are a threatened species that faces many threats from human activities, such as boat collisions, habitat loss, pollution, fishing gear entanglement, etc. Therefore, they are protected by federal and state laws that regulate how people can interact with them.

Why Crystal River is the Best Place to Swim with the Manatees

Crystal River is a coastal city in Citrus County, Florida, that is famous for its clear, spring-fed waters and abundant wildlife. It is home to the largest concentration of manatees in North America, especially during the winter months when hundreds of manatees migrate to the warm springs of Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.

Crystal River is also one of the few places in the world where you can legally swim with the manatees in their natural environment. Unlike other places where manatees are kept in captivity or fed by humans, Crystal River offers a unique opportunity to observe and interact with wild manatees in a respectful and responsible way.

How to Prepare for Your Swim with the Manatees Tour

If you’re ready to embark on this amazing adventure, here are some things you need to do before you book your tour:

Choose a reputable tour operator that follows the best practices for manatee viewing and conservation. At River Ventures, we are committed to providing you with a safe, fun, and educational experience that respects the manatees and their habitat. We have certified in-water guides and photographers, USCG Master Captains, and covered pontoon boats that can accommodate up to 10 people. We also offer private tours for families or groups that want a more personalized and intimate experience.

Check the weather and water conditions before you go. The best time to swim with the manatees is from November to March, when the surrounding water temperature drops below the constant 72°F spring water temperature and the manatee population is at its peak near the springs. However, the weather and water conditions can vary depending on the season and the day, so it’s important to check them before you go. You can visit our conditions page or contact us directly for more details.

Dress appropriately for your tour. You’ll need to wear a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. You’ll also need to bring a towel, a change of clothes, and a waterproof bag for your personal belongings. We’ll provide you with a wetsuit, a mask, a snorkel, and bottled water. You can buy an underwater camera from our tour center if you want to take photos or videos of your manatee encounter.

Arrive at our tour center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. You’ll need to fill out some paperwork, get fitted with a wetsuit, and watch a short video on proper manatee manners. Our friendly staff will also answer any questions you may have and give you some tips on how to make the most of your tour.

What to Expect on Your Swim with the Manatees Tour

Once you’re ready, you’ll board our comfortable pontoon boat and head to the best location given the current conditions for your manatee encounter. Our experienced crew will share their extensive knowledge of manatee behavior and conservation efforts, adding depth to your adventure.

As you submerge into the spring-fed waters of Crystal River, prepare for an unforgettable manatee experience. You’ll be amazed by the beauty and grace of these gentle giants as they swim, play, rest, and feed around you.

But it doesn’t end there—be sure to keep your eyes peeled for a variety of wildlife, from birds and fish to dolphins and turtles, showcasing the richness of our unique ecosystem.

Here are some things to keep in mind during your tour:

Follow the instructions of your guide at all times. They will help you find the manatees and ensure that you interact with them in a respectful and responsible way. They will also take photos and videos of your experience that you can purchase after your tour.

Respect the manatees’ space and behavior. Do not chase, touch, feed, or harass the manatees in any way. Avoid blocking their path or access to the surface. Let them approach you if they are curious and interested.

Be quiet and calm in the water. Do not splash, kick, or make loud noises that may disturb or scare the manatees. Move slowly and gently in the water and avoid sudden movements that may startle them.

Be aware of your surroundings and other people in the water. Do not crowd or obstruct other swimmers or boaters that may be in the area. Stay close to your guide and boat at all times and do not wander off on your own. Be careful not to step on or damage any plants or animals that may be on the bottom or near the shore.

How to Enjoy Your Swim with the Manatees Experience

After your tour, you’ll return to our tour center where you can change clothes and browse our gift shop for souvenirs while enjoying a cup of coffee or the best hot cocoa in town.

We hope that you enjoyed your swim with the manatee’s experience as much as we did. We also hope that you learned something new about these amazing animals and their habitat.

Here are some ways to extend your enjoyment of your experience:

Share your photos and videos with your friends and family on social media. Don’t forget to tag us @RiverVentures or use #RiverVentures so we can see your awesome shots!

Leave us a review on Google, TripAdvisor, Facebook, or Yelp. We appreciate your feedback and love hearing from our customers!

Join our community on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or Tiktok. Follow us for more updates on our tours, events, specials, contests, and more!

Come back again! There’s always something new to see and do in Crystal River. Whether you want to swim with the manatees again or try one of our other tours (such as kayaking, scalloping, airboat rides, etc.), we’d love to have you back!

Thank you for choosing River Ventures for your swim with the manatee adventure. We hope to see you again soon!