A Warm Welcome to Crystal River

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences that can bring families closer together. So, when I heard about the opportunity to swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida, I knew it was something I had to try. My husband and I decided to make it a part of our month-long Florida adventure, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip!

Upon arrival at Salty Siren Tours, we were greeted by the friendly staff, including Captain Kim, who was a delight to chat with. Her passion for manatees was infectious, and she shared fascinating insights about these gentle giants. We were fitted with high-quality wetsuits and introduced to our guide, Aubrie, who would be leading us on this incredible journey.

Swimming with Gentle Giants

The anticipation built as we boarded the tour vessel with Captain Ed at the helm. With only my husband and me as passengers, it felt like a private tour. Aubrie, our water guide, was nothing short of amazing. She expertly guided me to where the manatees were, advising me on when to keep my head in the water or look up to see them surface for air.

Floating above these massive creatures was surreal. At one point, I found myself between two manatees, and one gently nudged me aside. It was a gentle reminder of their size and strength, yet their demeanor was so peaceful. Captain Ed even used a drone to capture stunning aerial shots of us in the water with the manatees, while Aubrie’s GoPro captured incredible underwater photos.

Exploring House Springs

Our adventure didn’t stop with the manatees. We took a detour to House Springs, a serene inlet with crystal-clear water. Swimming in this peaceful spot was a treat, and Aubrie captured beautiful underwater photos of the vibrant fish and bubbling sand vents. It was a magical experience that added another layer of wonder to our day.

While I was in the water, my husband chose to stay on the boat as an observer. Even from there, he had fantastic views of the manatees and other wildlife, capturing great photos and videos. We even spotted a dolphin, a cormorant enjoying a meal, and a few baby alligators!

This experience was more than just a swim with manatees; it was a wildlife tour that left us in awe of nature’s beauty. I highly recommend this adventure to any family looking to create unforgettable memories. Swim with Manatees is a must-do for anyone visiting Crystal River!