Looking for a fun weekend getaway with an unforgettable experience? Look no farther than swimming with the manatees in Crystal River, Florida. My family and I had the opportunity to visit Crystal River (about a 2 hour drive from Bradenton) this past weekend. During our stay we came face to nose with manatees, relaxed poolside and enjoyed the beautiful nature of the outdoors.
Plantation Adventure Center and Manatee Tours |
Ever since I have been a little girl, I have had a fascination with manatees. There is just something about these giant, gentle creatures. I was beyond excited to be able to share my love for manatees with my family in what I knew would be an unforgettable experience. After researching options for swimming with manatees, I found Plantation Adventure Center and Manatee Tours, a waterside full-service marina and dive shop. It is located at the Plantation on Crystal River Resort (more information to come on that later!) I booked their first tour (at 7AM). Tours are available for all ages (their smallest wetsuit was a size 6 child) and they are able to accommodate all snorkeling and swimming levels.
The morning of our tour we checked in and were suited up with wetsuits and snorkels. We then watched an informational video of the "Do's and Don'ts" expected of us during the tour, which gave us tips on how to make our experience the best that it could be. Crystal River is the only place that you can legally swim alongside the manatees and observe them in their natural habitat. The biggest takeaways from the video is to remain quiet - no yelling or excessive splashing - and don't chase the manatees, rather let them come up to you.
After that, we were ready for our adventure! We had booked a semi-private tour (private tours are also available) - besides us (4) there were 7 other guests on board plus 2 captains so there was plenty of room for social distancing. Our captains - Dustin and Mark - were FANTASTIC. They were hilarious to listen to but were also very informative about the manatees. For example, did you know that manatees are blind and can't see you if you are right in front of them? All they can see are lights and shadows. So when you are wearing your wetsuit and swimming around them, they think you are another manatee. Being naturally curious creatures, this is why they will come up to you to explore.
Our boat ride was about 15 minutes before we came upon the manatees. We hopped in the water (which took my breath away momentarily because it was cold, but thanks to the wetsuit it wasn't too bad and I was able to adjust to it quickly). The 72 degree year-round water temperature makes Crystal River the perfect place for over 400 West Indian manatees to migrate to, especially during the colder months.
It was really neat to be able to swim so close to such a majestic animal. The West Indian manatee averages 1,000 pounds and 10 feet in length. They eat 10 to 15% of their body weight a day - which I believe because our manatee spent most of his time while we were there munching along the river's bottom. They come up to the surface every 30 to 60 seconds for air. Here's a picture of the manatee sticking his nose out of the water to get air right next to my daughter - she wasn't too sure what to think about that! Speaking of pictures, one of our captains jumped in the water with us and took pictures and video of our encounter so you don't have to worry about bringing your own camera. All of the pictures and video are put on a thumbdrive and is available for purchase back at the shop.
Three Sisters Spring |
After swimming with the manatees we climbed back on board the pontoon for a trip down the river to the Three Sisters Spring. This natural spring was absolutely beautiful to swim through and the water was so clear you could see the bottom and all the fish and crabs scurrying along. We snorkeled here as well but kayaking is also a very popular way to explore the springs.
Here are a few pictures of our trip to Three Sisters Spring.
Besides manatee tours, Plantation Adventure Center and Manatee Tours also offers charter fishing, kayaking and boat rentals, scalloping, and afternoon and sunset sightseeing tours. Reservations are highly encouraged. Book your adventure today - contact them HERE.
Plantation on Crystal River Ascend Hotel Collection |
During our visit we stayed at the charming Plantation on Crystal River Hotel, an eco-friendly resort located on 232 acres and surrounded by the natural springs of Kings Bay. It is the perfect destination for couples and families alike who love the outdoors. On-site activities include volleyball, yard games (chess, checkers, Connect 4, croquet, horseshoes, etc.), tennis courts and an 18-hole Championship golf course, putting green and driving range. Other amenities include a fitness center, a full-service Aveda salon, a large heated lagoon-style pool, a boat launch and 3 on-site restaurants/bars.
The grounds are beautiful, especially during the sunset, and there was a wedding both nights of our stay. The hotel is a short drive to other popular attractions, including the Fort Island Beach, the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and the famous home of the mermaids, Weeki Wachee State Park.
The Resort is a mid-price range pet friendly hotel with 196 guest rooms. All rooms are equipped with a mini-fridge, a coffee maker and Wi-Fi access. There are also 2-story golf villas with kitchenettes available for larger groups or longer stays. Our room faced the canal so we ate our breakfast and lunch on the patio and watched the boats as they passed by - what a view!
Make your reservation at the Plantation on Crystal River Hotel today! They offer several packages which includes your accommodations, tours and breakfast so you can find the one that is perfect for you and your family. Visit them online HERE.
This was an amazing experience and one that my family will always remember. I highly recommend it!
* I was provided a complimentary stay and tour tickets for the purpose of this review. All opinions stated are my own.
