This gift shop is where we booked our Manatee Tour. Gift shop has all kinds of manatee souvenir merchandises from Magnets, key chains, stuffies, shirts... and many more!! Purchased ref magnet and couple shirts for hubby and myself!!! Very cordial staff who attended to our transactions !!! Awesome !!! read more

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I have to give 5 stars with the situation given to us at hand. I think my expectations going in were way too high unfortunately, but I had zero issue with the company or my experience with them. Everyone was so friendly and our tour guide Adam was great and funny. I have wanted to swim with the manatees for years and finally decided this was the year, and I have researched so much about best time to see them (November to March and early in the morning when they're "most active") Given my birthday falls in early Feb it was perfect timing I thought and we got on the 7:15 am crew. Well that week Florida was a bit warmer than usual, but I think the main issue which we found out during the presentation was how much the back to back hurricanes in October had affected their food supply which means they were migrating out to colder waters to get food but have to come back to survive. This meant (I guess) WAY LESS manatees than I expected. Every picture you see on the internet is not accurate for the "winter" time lol. I definitely thought I was gonna be in a sea of manatees when really only ONE seam under me. I did see a baby and a mom which is always super sweet, and others on the boat (7 of us including my best friend) had a little bit closer encounters than I actually did. So it's kinda like right place right time. I did happen to be right next to Adam when one swam right up tp him and looked at him (there's a beautiful pic attached he captured). It gets cold lol. It's actually not as cold as I thought it would be getting into the water but being in there for 35-45 minutes my teeth started chattering lol. They provide the wetsuits and unsure if water shoes would help your toesies. My only suggestion would be to make sure everyone has used a snorkel mask before cause I actually never have and when the manatee swam under me I actually inhaled water and couldn't enjoy seeing it all the way since I had to get my face out of the water, I didn't realize you had to really clench your teeth and mouth around the mouthpiece I guess. I understand seeing manatees is out of any company's control (we prob saw 8-10) and everyone seemed to have an amazing time, and don't get me wrong it was a super cool experience and I would absolutely do it again. Also I was afraid of alligators but I guess that's a silly fear that they put to rest. And another side note, there's a lot of companies and a lot of people out there which kinda sucks but I know I'm one of them haha. And last but not least their gift shop is so cute and you can definitely find a nice memory piece to take home. read more

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We lucked out and our family was the only people out on the boat. The crew members were so nice and explained everything really well. The water was amazing and so beautiful. Madeline our manatee guide was very nice and helpful. It was such an amazing experience I def want to come back. read more

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Great experience today with the Explorida team. Crystal, Megan and Captain Walter were very helpful, shared a lot of information, have a great passion for what they do and the manatee/aquatic environment. We spent time in the cove area which is amazingly beautiful -the fish, plants, trees and of course the manatees. We were also able to see manatees in the three sister spring area and many more fish including a flounder. It was truly an incredible experience for all of us. The wet suit was very helpful in staying warm and the equipment was clean and well maintained. Thank you for such a great day and experience! read more

We had GQ and Ben as captain and guide for swimming with manatees and they were great I had so much fun and so did my husband we saw so many manatees and babies it was def worth the drive we made from Naples! If I comeback to Florida I'm def gonna do again!!! read more

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Fantastic off-season experience. Went to the 6:30 a.m. tour in July and watched a cow and calf in Three Sisters Springs for 45 minutes before any other groups arrived. Beautiful, rare, awesome experience. Megan and Walter were our tour guides. They were professional and friendly. You can tell they care about the area - talking to neighbors and stopping to pick up trash out of the water. read more

I recommend scheduling all your adventures with Explorida while in the Crystal River! Kim and Anthony are friendly, professional, and accomodating!! read more

From the minute you walk through the door everyone is so friendly. The shop has fantastic unique manatee gifts. Many are made locally. They are super patient as you get suited up and will help with sizes! The safety video is informative and helpful on how to passively interact with the manatees. Then it's off on the van to Pete's Pier. Where we met Captain Rhonda and our tour guide/photographer extraordinaire Madeline. Both are locals who know the area and waters intimately. Madeline spied a manatee straight away and got some amazing shots of me with the gentle giant. Her pictures are amazing and the price can't be beat. We then went to another spot and we saw three or four and then it was like ten or twelve. They were everywhere! It was truly magical. We then went to the spring and took more fun pictures and saw a mama and baby zoom by! We saw cormorants and pelicans as well. After we got out of our wetsuits Madeline passed around hot chocolate. Then it was back to the pier and we were able to dry off and change and have more tea, coffee or hot chocolate to warm up while we perused the store and viewed our photos. We're already planning our next trip back! read more

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Although we weren't able to see the plethora of manatees in the height of the season, we had a great time. This outfit stressed the importance of the well being of the manatee. We watched the mandatory video on do's and don'ts while swimming with manatees. They fitted us with the correct sized wetsuits and off we went to the pier. The slipper of the boat drove us out and was able to spot a couple of manatees immediately. Because of the weather and the impact of the last hurricane , the manatees headed back to the bay to eat. Our diving guide helped us navigate towards the couple of manatees. They reinforced with us to be still to allow the manatees to come to us. Those that did that usually had the manatees come to us. Those that didn't just scared them away Based on what Explorida could control, they did a great job. Kudos to Madelyn and Gavin. read more

Topher and Kelly were amazing, I would recommend this business to anyone. The manatees were adorable, and everyone was so kind, funny, and passionate-Not something you find everywhere! read more

This was an amazing experience. Don't be nervous if you don't know how to swim. They put you in a wet suit and you use a pool Noodle and essentially just float among the manatee. No swimming required except move your arms and hands if you want to move forward. Our boat driver was awesome. Really knew the area well. We even got to see dolphins hunting in the area as well as fish and a turtle out the near the spring area. Would high recommend but don't book it through TripAdvisor! Book through the Explorida website. read more

5 or so years ago my parents came to the Nature Coast and kayaked with manatees and since then I've really wanted to get up close to them. Last March we visited my in-laws and did kayaking and didn't see a single one. When we planned our trip for this January I insisted we do some snorkeling. We booked online about two weeks in advance. When we booked for a Monday morning at 9:30 it said there was only 5 slots left (we were a party of 4). Our group ended up only being 6, with the other two who had had to reschedule due to bad weather a few days prior. Wondering if that "5 slots left" was a marketing ploy - oh well. They had plenty of wetsuits of all sizes. I'm 6'2" 300 lbs and they still had larger ones. Fee also includes snorkel and mask but we brought our own. No flippers here, but personally I'd recommend bringing some sort of water shoes. After a short video they load you in a van and drive you to a marina 5 minutes away. For us it was only about a 7-8 minute boat ride to the cove we were headed too, but I suppose it could have been longer if the manatees were further away. I know it's somewhat luck, but during our trip we were able to see 8-10 manatees. Several of them were hanging in a shaded and murky area and you couldn't see them until you were on top of them. After ten minutes or so a few started heading into the cove through clearer water and we were able to get some great photo and socialization opportunities. They were VERY interested in the belly of my 5 month pregnant wife. Overall we were in the water for about an hour. On the way back to shore they gave everyone a cup of hot cocoa. It was an amazing experience. Prices for both the dive itself and the optional photo package were more than reasonably priced. They do also have a good sized gift shop that again was pretty fairly priced. I cannot recommend this place enough and absolutely will be back in the future. read more

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We went out early morning a few days ago, it was overall a great experience. We went out with captain Steve and our tour guide Summer. The only unfortunate thing was that they had a storm/hurricane in the areas few weeks ago so the water was murky and it was hard to really see anything in the water. When we went out early in the morning it was also extremely foggy. We had hoped to see more manatees and hoped for it to be easier to see them but unfortunately due to the storm/weather/temperature of the water we were only able to get glimpses of them. Guide and the Captain were both super kind/friendly and knowledgeable. Would recommend people to book with them! read more

The experience was magical from start to finish. Highly recommend this! The staff is super friendly. The boat captain was incredibly knowledgeable about the manatees, telling us about why they are on the endangered list, what they eat, why they come to the spring, etc. We saw so many manatees, and they were so close! I can't believe how graceful these gentle giants are! I bought a waterproof cover for my phone and wouldn't recommend it. It was cumbersome and the quality of the pictures were bad. With my goggles on, I couldn't tell when my camera was on or if it took a pic. It was distracting. Buy the photos from the company if you want a keepsake, they were amazing. Also when booking, remember the earlier you go, the less crowded it will be. read more

Explorida - A manatee swimming by - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

Chris was an awesome tour guide. Thanks to the weather we were able to see a bunch of manatees up close and in their habitat. A really smooth boat ride. read more

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This is the second Manatee snorkeling tour I have been to and by far the better of the two. Captain Tom and staff were very helpful and informative. I went with family from Michigan and they were delighted. read more

Explorida - There were Manatees right next to the snorkelers. Hard to see in the photo but close encounter in reality. - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

My family had a lovely time on this boat tour. Really enjoyed seeing manatees, shore birds and learning about the local history. read more

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We had a great time on this adventure. Super friendly people from the moment we walked in the door. We got suited up and went through a brief orientation before heading out to the boat on a short shuttle ride away (only a few blocks). JJ and Brody were our guides. They did an exceptional job finding us clear water locations to see Manatee and swim in a super cool spring. Great personality, very helpful, knowledgeable, and super fun. Super fun experience. read more

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Fun, fun, fun. These guys really accommodate and do their best to make sure you get a good experience The bad 1) Pictures from the website are misleading. Not that it was bad, but the pictures appear to be in an aquarium. You're in somewhat murky water with limited vision. The good 1) Hospitality sets the bar. Free drinks before you leave 2) The staff was extra nice 3) After the manatees we were treated with a natural spring swim as well 4) the price is more than fair for the amount of time you're with the team Conclusion I would recommend it. Don't expect to see what you see on the website. But it's still really neat and an unforgettable experience. read more

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Great trip with Captain Steve and Keri this morning. We were up close and personal with five manatees this morning! What a relaxing experience to just lay on top of the water and watch the gentle Giants maneuver about it rest. A couple of them were quite playful this morning. Highly recommend this to her especially for anybody out of town. What's a recommend bring a change of dry clothes for the boat if it's a chilly morning. read more

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From the moment I arrived at the facility every single interaction with everyone was one to remember. I was greeted with smiles and given a wealth of information followed by a wonderful captain and amazing tour guide. She went above and beyond by pushing me out of my comfort zone and helping me build my confidence. At first I was so nervous and I am so glad she pushed me because I would have missed out on a chance of a lifetime. Such a extraordinary experience. It was literally breathtaking to be so close to these beautiful gentle creatures, observing their every move. I was able to have an amazing up close view of this guy eating and then a lengthy interaction with him as I looked into his eyes while we both floated to the top together. A moment that melted my heart. It amazes me how such a huge creature could be so gentle. Did you know that a manatee does not have any predators? (They just have to worry about humans not respecting their homes) They have no fight or flight because they do not have to. If they do not like what is going on around them they just move along their happy way. More people should be like this. Please remember to respect the animals habitats. This is a great opportunity and if you disturb the animals you may cause harm and the banning of this wonderful excursion for the future. read more

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Our guides Madilyn and Tyler were fantastic! Besides being knowledgeable, they were extraordinarily helpful. They worked to ensure everyone in the party saw the manatees. Madilyn even helped my mother (almost 60) who was struggling to swim without using her legs. read more

Explorida - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

One of the best gift shops in town. You can get EVERYTHING manatee themed here! The staff is also very welcoming, and it's located in the center of town so you can walk to literally anything else. This place also offers tours! read more

Explorida - Outside - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

Our group of 10 had a wonderful snorkeling with manatees adventure. We had a few non-swimmers who learned a lot about the manatees and their habitat while out of the water. The snorkeling guide and boat captain were both wonderful hosts. It was a once in a lifetime experience that everyone ages 12 to 70 really enjoyed. Explorida tours was a fantastic experience and we all highly recommend. read more

Kelly provided a great afternoon. She shared knowledge of the springs and the animal life in the area. The cool weather allowed us to see lots of manatees, and Kelly taught us about their life cycle, their habits, and their challenges. Would recommend Explorida and Kelly for your manatee boat tour (or swim if you are more adventurous). read more

Went a water tour today with Christian and Captain Tommy. Was excellent! Seen manatees and got to swim in the beautiful spring. Christen brought me right up to the manatee and was so great with the group. Captain Tommy answered all our questions and did and outstanding job. read more

What a fabulous experience swimming with the Manatees, huge gentle animals that are so fun to watch in their natural habitat. read more

Explorida - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

10/10 would recommend. Guides are very knowledgeable, boats and equipment are well maintained, and the experience of swimming with Manatee's is incredible! read more

Amazing little excursion and awesome privilege to swim with manatee. Many thanks to our boat captain and swim/tour guide (whose names I forget - so sorry ) for this wonderful experience. read more

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Had a wonderful experience today on our manatee tour with Jake our driver he was excellent and informative and the home trip was very exciting. Next time I'll get in the water with the manatees because it looks like so much fun. Highly recommend this company and cart tour guide was excellent read more

This is our second time using Explorida to visit the manatees. The staff is very informative and use precaution in the protection of the species when going over rules for the day. Alex and Mica were great captain and tour guide, making sure we had an excellent viewing area. We went on a cloudy/rainy day which worked in our favor because the temperature drop brought the manatees in and we were able to get a great tour in. Mica even brought us deep into the the springs and told us how they were made to give the manatees more space ! Would recommend Explorida Over and over for a guaranteed good time ! read more

Explorida - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

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We took two families out on a trip at the end of the day. We've gone whale watching before, and manatees are a little like that: sometimes you see a ton, other times not so many. On this trip, we saw as many as we could have on a more challenging day, and it was a phenomenal experience. The main reason was because of Brody, our guide. Not only was he passionate about manatees, he is a true local who knows all the best spots and had the charisma to create a truly magical experience for the kids. AND he gave us a great seafood restaurant recommendation for after. All in all, well worth the 2-hour drive from Indian Rocks to see a bunch of these amazing animals. read more

Explorida - Baby manatee and mother - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

An absolutely amazing experience! It started with the warm and friendly greeting the second we walked in the door. Chris, our boat captain and Maddie, our guide/photographer, were both superbly skilled and extraordinarily friendly. I can't image a better crew is to be had in any of these tours. The manatees are such gentle giants. It was awe inspiring to be up close to them. And, thanks to Chris and Maddie we now have tons more knowledge about these beautiful creatures. I highly recommend Explorida. read more

Explorida - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

This was our first time my husband and I have been swimming with manatees. Our guides Lindsay & Tom were amazing throughout the tour. We moved location a few times to make sure we saw multiple manatees and were able to swim with several. Lindsay was very attentive and made sure we were having a great time. We could have done without all the homophobic comments from one of the other guests, but we didn't let him spoil our day. read more

Explorida - Sleeping manatee - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

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Such a fantastic time!!! This company is the best! From the very beginning we knew we had to go out with Explorida- Kim was so helpful when we were booking our adventure, and everyone we interacted with who worked their rocked! We had an amazing time swimming with manatees! This company is super eco friendly and utilizes a passive approach when swimming with manatees in an effort to minimize human impact on these creatures, which I respect a ton, so we got to just float their and watch these amazing creatures be manatees! The store and gift shop are also awesome! Super clean and well payed out. Be prepared to buy at least one stuffed animal manatee ;) read more

Explorida - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

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Super beautiful area, manatees are amazing. Staff is helpful and nice. Really lame though that pics aren't included- you have to pay $33 for low quality pics read more

Shout out to Topher and Captain Taylor! Excellent guides on a wonderful experience! All the staff were friendly and excited to educate us about the manatees! 5 stars! read more

Amazing experience. The staff is great and makes you feel comfortable is you're nervous in the water. We saw three manatees and got great pictures taken by the staff for us! read more

Explorida - Snorkeling Near Me - Crystal River, Florida

Such an amazing day and so much fun!! This company completely surpassed all expectations of our day swimming with the manatees!! The staff was excellent from booking through the checkout of the extras we purchased at the end! We will be back for sure!! Don't bother with any other company, book with Explorida! read more

We had a great time on the 9:30 manatee swim tour (we went in late November). The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and went the extra mile by giving us hot chocolate and water bottles. Everything was on schedule and happened as expected, and it was a really cool experience to have the manatees swim right beneath you. As others mentioned, the water is kind of murky so if you're looking for amazing photos, you might not get those. And there's such a small area to view the manatees, so it gets crowded with all the different tour companies going to the same spot---lots of accidental kicks to the face and limbs flailing as people try to stay afloat with the current. But Explorida was definitely the best run group out there and they made sure we had fun! read more