Swimming with manatees in Crystal River, Florida, is an unforgettable experience that connects you with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Crystal River is known as the “Manatee Capital of the World.” It’s easy to see why, once you’ve had the chance to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. Recently, I had the pleasure of embarking on a manatee tour with Salty Siren Tours, and I can’t recommend it enough. The tour was not only reasonably priced but also packed with incredible perks, including stunning photography and two amazing captains Ed and Marissa.
Why Choose Crystal River, Florida?
Crystal River is one of the few places in the world where you can legally swim with manatees. The area’s cool, spring-fed waters attract hundreds of manatees, making it a prime destination for manatee lovers. The crystal-clear waters of the springs provide the perfect environment for observing these curious and gentle creatures as they glide gracefully through the water.
The Salty Siren Tours Experience
From the moment we arrived at Salty Siren Tours, the experience was seamless. The staff was welcoming, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. Before heading out, we received a thorough briefing on manatee etiquette. How to interact with them respectfully and ensure their safety. This preparation made us feel confident and ready for the adventure ahead.
Once we were geared up and ready, we boarded the comfortable tour boat, which was equipped with everything we needed for a fantastic day on the water. The boat ride itself was a joy, offering picturesque views of the Crystal River and its surrounding natural beauty.
Swimming with the Manatees
The highlight of the tour, of course, was swimming with the manatees. The experience is nothing short of magical. Floating alongside these gentle giants was an incredible bucket list experience for me. The manatees were curious yet calm, making the experience feel intimate and serene. It doesn’t appear they have many predators, so they tend to be very relaxed. We were grateful to get to witness a baby nursing with her mama.
Pro Tip: When To Visit
The peak season for observing and swimming with manatees is November through April, and the local manatee population swells to its largest size between December and February. You can spot manatees in our waterways all year round, but the population is much smaller during the summer months. I traveled in July and only saw a handful of them. Just FYI. Know before you go!
Capturing the Moment: Photography and Drone Footage
One of the standout features of Salty Siren Tours is their commitment to capturing your experience with both aerial drone and underwater photography. The tour includes professional underwater photography, ensuring you have stunning images of your time with the manatees. The photographers know exactly how to capture the magic of the moment. Allowing you to relive the experience through the beautiful photos.
The drone captures the vastness of Crystal River, the beauty of the landscape, and the uniqueness of the experience from above. It’s not every day that you get such a comprehensive documentation of your adventure. Plus, the quality of the footage exceeded all expectations.
A Reasonable Price for an Unforgettable Experience
Considering the incredible experience, the quality of service, and the stunning photography included in the package, the price of the tour was more than reasonable. Salty Siren Tours offers a range of packages to fit different budgets, making it accessible for anyone looking to have this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Swimming with manatees in Crystal River is a must-do for nature lovers and anyone seeking a unique adventure. With Salty Siren Tours, you’re not just booking a tour. You’re embarking on an experience that will stay with you forever. From the friendly staff and well-organized trip to the exceptional photography, every aspect of the tour was top-notch. If you’re planning a trip to Crystal River, don’t miss the chance to swim with manatees with Salty Siren Tours. You won’t be disappointed!
Heading to Crystal River?
