Published on Dec, 2024
Yesterday, my daughter and I had the most incredible experience on the Snorkel with Manatees Tour at 6:30 AM with Plantation on Crystal River Adventure Center. We were aboard a comfortable boat with a skilled in-water dive master (who was also our photographer). The boat was perfect for our needs, and we had a wonderful time with a friendly, experienced captain and a knowledgeable guide. The staff, both on land and on the boat, were so thoughtful, providing towels, water, coffee, and hot cocoa to keep us comfortable. There was ample parking, and the changing and shower room was warm and well-maintained.
We stayed at the Hampton Inn Crystal River, just a short 3-minute drive from the tour location. The hotel offers breakfast from 6:00 to 10:00 AM, so we were able to enjoy a lovely meal before starting our adventure—an ideal way to kick off the day.
Our guide was fantastic, capturing many photos of us, which we could later view and purchase as lasting memories. We also learned a lot about the area, including the warm springs, and how the water temperature remains steady at a comfortable 72°F (22°C). While the temperature was perfect, we were provided with wetsuits for added comfort.
We were lucky enough to see an incredible number of manatees, and my daughter and I truly had an unforgettable experience. It was a magical adventure—by far better than a day at Disneyland! Highly recommended ❤️
