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    River Ventures

    4.8 (397 reviews)
    Closed 6:00 am - 5:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    Services - River Ventures

    Boat charters

    River Ventures Photos

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    Recommended Reviews - River Ventures

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    Reviews With Photos

    Inside their shop
    Adrianna S.

    Snorkeling with manatees has been on my bucket list forever and we finally got the chance to do it with River Ventures. It was everything I had dreamed it would be. It was awesome! We drove around searching for manatees for a bit and finally got to see a mama and her baby. So cute!! We saw 5 in total. We got to swim with 4 of them. We took the early morning tour. The best time to see manatees is in the winter so it was chilly. I was freezing. The website is a little misleading- it says heated boat. But there isn't a heating system in the boat. There is one small portable heater. It did work well. And there was hot chocolate. The captain, Moe, and our guide, Steven, were so helpful and did everything they could to warm me up after we went in the water. Steven even gave me his coat. Captain Moe was pouring hot water over my feet. Really above and beyond. I do wish the company provided foot booties. We would have brought our own if we had known they didn't provide them. Be sure to grab some cute souvenirs in their shop afterwards. Their pics cost $39 after the tour if you don't bring your own camera.

    Britt S.

    Mike and Anna were the best guide and captain EVER!! You won't be disappointed! I promise!! They work so hard to ensure you have an amazing experience and see the most manatees, while also doing everything in their power to protect these amazing and majestic creatures. I have so much respect for them and this company. They truly value these manatees and do our vest to be guest in their homes! Ten stars!

    Darren L.

    Great experience swimming with the manatees! We had Trish, Piper, and Captain Wade as our guides, and all were extremely knowledgeable about the manatee (so many facts!), the area, and the environmental ecosystem. From start to finish, I knew I was in extremely good hands with these folks. We had a short 15 minute prep class before heading out to the boat, where Capt. Wade reiterated several of the same points again. I knew exactly what was expected of me and what was going to happen. We found some manatees very early on by the springs (many resting) and then another active one in a cove area. Super fun! Wet suits, hot cocoa and tea were all provided. The three hour tour goes pretty fast but by the end I was ready to be done. So glad we did this swimming tour and NOT the kayaks!

    River Ventures is really easy to work with. just an awesome, well-run manatee experience. Captain Wade ran a smooth, safe boat and knew exactly where to go, and our tour guide Crystal was fantastic. Super friendly, patient, and great at getting everyone in position without stressing the manatees. We were in the water with multiple manatees just cruising around us. Calm, unreal, and way better than I expected. Gear was clean, wetsuits fit, and everything was organized. If you're booking a manatee tour in Crystal River, this is the one.

    Brought our own go pro
    Heather L.

    Did the crystal river manatee tour a couple weeks ago with Sheila and Chris and it was such an incredible experience. Our tour guide and boat captain were both super knowledgeable, friendly and even though the weather was getting warmer they still got us on some manatees. Wish the water had been a little clearer but that is no fault of theirs and the experience was still worth it. Would definitely love to come back during cooler weather and when the river grass grows back so the visability will be better. 10/10 would book with this company again!

    Ready to go swimming squeezed into this wetsuit.

    What a great eco tour. If you love manatees you have to try this activity. Our in water guide Steven was awesome. He found us four different manatee groups to swim with. The best was a mother and her cute calf. The water is a little chilly but the provided wetsuits make the swim comfortable. If you are not a strong swimmer don't worry the wetsuit and pool noodles make it simple to stay afloat.

    Our boat
    Debbie H.

    My grandchildren and I all had such a great time. The shop was easy to find and it was a very short drive to the boat. It was a small group (only 10 of us). We spent most of our time in the water and saw 3 manatees. So many cute things available for purchase in the shop. I love that they showed us a video about the manatees before we got suited up and I sincerely appreciate the focus on the animals safety/comfort. Wade reiterated everything Trisha said and made sure everyone was comfortable with gear and the process. Both were patient and kind. The boys are already asking when we can go back because they want to share the experience with other family members.

    Nancy Z.

    Captain Chris and Natalie. Wow what a winning combination fir swimming with the manatees. Best trip ev very out on Kings Bay!

    What an amazing experience!!! We were able to swim with a momma & baby manatee! Captain Wade and Natalie were absolutely amazing! The photos and videos they got for us were awesome! We would definitely come back!

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    Ask the Community - River Ventures

    Is it possible to use our own camera to take pictures underwater and/or with the manatees?

    Yes, you can use your own camera. However selfie sticks and flash/strobe lights are not allowed.

    What time is the most ideal time to book a tour? Are we allowed to take a GoPro with us?

    They say morning time during spring or summer.. yes we were able to use our gopro, but the guide takes good pictures so stay with them for a lot of pics! 🤪

    Are life vests provided to children? If not can we bring our own?

    Everyone is provided a float to help them float in the water and the wetsuits are also very buoyant. You won't have any trouble floating.

    Can you wear glasses with the mask?

    Thank you for writing Melissa and this is a question we get often. If you have small, wire rim glasses and a petite face it may be possible to fit your glasses inside the mask, but the arms would still cause the seal to break and water would leak in… Read more

    View All 5 Questions

    Review Highlights - River Ventures

    Although the weather was warm and there were fewer manatee to see, Joanna and Mike made the experience magical.

    Mentioned in 109 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Marina Rose Cruises

    Marina Rose Cruises

    (1 review)

    From the minute you step onboard until the minute you leave, the staff is super attentive..we had…read moreour meals from Carrabba's and they were served promptly along with beverages . A nice ride through the waters of Hernando Beach. They get you ready for the sunset and take pictures of your group as well . You can go on back of boat for pictures arls well...Bartender/server was a lot of fun too and made our trip ...this is my 4th trip on here and it was a great time...highly recommend the Sunset Cruise, I have also sailed during the day as well and it was very nice,.

    From the owner: At Marina Rose Cruises, we offer more than a boat ride – we deliver memorable experiences along…read moreFlorida’s Adventure Coast. Here’s why you’ll love cruising with us: 1. Unique Vessel, Classic Charm The Marina Rose is a fully enclosed, climate-controlled paddle boat blending modern comfort with timeless charm. Enjoy scenic harbors, Gulf sunsets, and festive holiday tours in style. 2. Family-Owned, Veteran-Led As a local, veteran-owned business, we bring heart to every cruise. From honoring veterans to crafting personalized guest experiences, we make each trip unforgettable. 3. Dining & Dolphin Sightings Enjoy catered meals and drinks from our licensed bar, paired with dolphin sightings and stunning coastal views. 4. Perfect for Every Occasion Celebrate special events, romantic dates, or relaxing days with our private charters and cruises tailored to your needs. 5. Safety First, Always As a USCG Inspected Vessel, safety is our top priority. Our certified crew ensures a secure, enjoyable journey. 6. Community Connection We love Hernando Beach. From leading the Heroes Boat Parade to Christmas light cruises, we celebrate and share the beauty of our home. With Marina Rose Cruises, you’re booking more than a cruise – you’re joining a tradition of charm, hospitality, and heartfelt service. Experience the difference – we can’t wait to welcome you aboard!

    Double J Adventures

    Double J Adventures

    (6 reviews)

    This was my 25th wedding anniversary and the wife always wanted to swim with the manatees...what a…read moregreat decision to go with Double J. If you want to enjoy time with the manatees with a team that makes the trip worth it... Double J Adventures is the place. We saw numerous manatees and the captain always gauged what the customers wanted and took us to some really great spots. CPT Garret was from the area and made sure we were taken care of. The 3 sister springs was the ending spot where we relaxed in the warm water and still spotted manatees on the way back to to boat. Love this trip and will be back scallop season to book a trip with CPT Jim and his team! Thanks for the great time.

    We are so glad we did a trip with Double J Adventures!…read more Have to admit that I initially planned on booking with 1 of the bigger operators, but they did not have slots at the times we wanted. So I looked for other operators on TripAdvisor, and found really good reviews for Double J. Gave a quick call to Capt. Joanne, and booked for the trip on their website. On the actual day, we got the boat to ourselves (there were 6 in our party). Capt. Jo was enlightening, and explained everything to us. We went to 2 spots where we got to swim with not less than 6 or 7 different manatees. Also got to touch and interact with them quite a bit. In the course of the break, some of us needed to use the bathroom, and Capt. Jo very kindly obliged. She also lent us her waterproof camera, and emailed links to the photos to us the following day. All in all, a very special experience, with a really professional operator! Word of advice: go for the early tours before the place gets swarmed with visitors!

    River Ventures - tours - Updated May 2026

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