Family Adventure Charters - Crystal River, Florida

Brian S.

I've been wanting to do this for some time and luck of the draw sent me Capt Mark! This man of men on the water knew too many details of manatees and their physiology, where to find the how to become one with the manatees. He had me and my wife swimming along side as if we joined the manatee family. It was an absolute surreal experience being up close with these impressively huge mammals, the grace and power for what you perceived as a giant cow. Mark took care of us and was willing to help others in the vicinity. The water was not cold and swimming was not very labor intensive. Do yourself a favor and request Capt Mark for a special trip of a lifetime.

Brooke W.

We had the pleasure of Captain Mark Wienecke’s lead for our tour. He was incredibly knowledgeable manatees behaviors and about the area and the influence of tides and water temps on the movement of manatees. Not only did he successfully locate many manatees for us but was kind enough to take fantastic photos of my sisters and I as we were swimming with moms and calves. We had a great time and can’t wait to go back!

Charly W.

Laura took us for a 3 hour boot tour through the kings bay to see the manatees
We did see a few, big ones, small ones and even a mother with her baby.
While we were in the water Laura pointed them out to us and gave direction that we can approach them.
On the way she gave us lots of info about the manatees, the area, good restaurants and houses.
Would definitely recommend and do it again!
Thanks again 🥰

Lisa V.

My husband and I went on the swim with the manatees boat tour. It was fabulous! The woman who helped us in the store with getting a wetsuit was very friendly and helpful. Even though it was warm outside, I got to swim beside a manatee! Our captain Laura, was super nice and provided us with lots of information about the area and the manatees. She was willing to take us wherever we wanted to go, so I also swam in other springs, which was nice! I highly recommend this company and tour and hope to do it again when its cooler out to see more manatee!

Becky I.

We had a fantastic adventure. Jason was a great captain & knew all of the great places to go to see manatee & other local wildlife. The boat only held 6 people so we were with just our own group and easily able to see everything he pointed out.

Hillary G.

We arrived early to watch the Mamatee manners video and then we were given our wetsuits. Once we arrived at the marina and met our captain, Laura, we were on our way to a fabulous adventure. I love that this tour was longer than other companies and Laura spent plenty of time talking about the history, local families, manatee regulations and general knowledge. She made the ride to the springs very enjoyable. Once we arrived at the first set of springs we were able to get in the water fairly quickly and begin looking out for manatees. We went in a warmer day, so there wasn’t a lot, but there was enough to be very enjoyable and awe inspiring. It was great that there was 2 stops and multiple opportunities to
See manatee. This was a great tour and I definitely recommend it.

Suus J.

Great tour. They take you in much smaller groups than some other tour companies you see. We saw many manatees and they make sure everyone is very respectful. The water is very cloudy from the ground but that doesn’t take away from the experience. Jayson even showed us some great springs with very clear water to swim in. He answers all questions you ask and tells you answers to questions you didn’t even know you had.

Definitely recommend! We even saw turtles 🐢

Cindy O.

I highly recommend this fun educational adventure. All the captains are Master Captains, the same license, certifications as large cruise ship captains.. Our captain was a Coast Guard veteran with many years experience and CPR trained. This is a great and safe boat experience. The captain was very knowledgeable about the manatees and the area. The video we watched prior to our excursion explained everything to educate and prepare us for our trip. I felt that myself and children were safe and it was enjoyed by everyone. It was money well spent for the wonderful experience and memories we will have for many years to come in addition to photos we took. We plan to do it again the next time we travel from Virginia to Florida.