Semi-Private or Private Heated VIP Manatee Swim Tour - Pontoon of Privilege

STARTING AT $84 per person | 3 hours · 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 before 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 a luxury pontoon boat with a 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.

  • The minimum Age to Participate in the Semi-Private VIP Tour is 3 Years old, please book all 6 seats or a private manatee tour to bring younger passengers.

  • Dogs are not allowed on the Semi-Private VIP Tour, please book a private manatee tour 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 which 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. If you are unable to swim with manatees during your tour and you have chosen the optional upgrade before 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.