Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Join River Venture’s 5-star crew and dive into the ‘OG’ swim with manatee experience with our HD photographer. Our full service, one-stop shop can guarantee manatees and more!
The ‘OG’ of Swim with Manatee:
Dive into the world of manatees with the largest and most experienced center in Crystal River and Homosassa – since 2004!
Manatee Guarantee Optional Upgrade($):
No manatees? No worries, we’ll refund you.
Tour options for any budget:
Save money or splurge, we have a tour for you.
Manatees, Dolphins & Airboats:
Combo-Tours, book for the manatee and stay with the dolphins
Over 5000 5-star reviews online!
Need we say more?
Your A-Team:
Expert guides, pirate captains, underwater photographers and booking wizards
Eco-Edutainment: In-classroom presentation. Learn from our passionate guides.
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Adult pricing applies to all travelers
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Wetsuits are available in all sizes from toddlers (2 years old and up) to adults up to 5X
It is advised that you have your swimsuit on underneath your clothes for a quicker check-in
Please bring a towel and warm clothes to change into after your tour.
Children under 3 years old are not allowed on this tour. Please call for other options.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Dive into the 'OG’ swim with manatee tour at River Ventures’ full-service, one-stop adventure shop. Join our 5-star crew load up on manatee facts while our photographer captures your adventure in HD. Meet and greet the most experienced Crew in town at River Ventures Tour Center. Learn about USFWS Manatee Encounter Rules and get fitted for a wetsuit in a classroom setting. Board coast guard boat with full isinglass enclosure during winter. Cruise Kings Bay, Three Sisters Springs and more while searching for manatees. Swim with Manatee while Guide captures your experience with top-of-the-line HD action camera. Return to Tour Center, sip on coffee and hot cocoa while shopping for souvenirs /photos. Expectations & Conditions We prioritize both the satisfaction of our customers and the safety of the Crystal River manatees. It is crucial to maintain realistic expectations when engaging in encounters with wild manatees since we cannot control their behavior or migration patterns. Each trip is distinct, offering a unique experience for every individual. For detailed information on current conditions, we encourage you to contact us directly.
Bottled water
In-water Guide & Photographer
Hot Cocoa
USCG Master Captain
Mask, Snorkel & Full-length Wetsuit
Introductory/instructional video offered in English, French, German, Japanese, or Spanish
Gratuities
Photo Package
Towel and swimsuit
Including a Manatee Guarantee: Upgrade now to eliminate the risk of not encountering a manatee. No manatees? We'll fully refund you!
3 hour Group tour: Dive into the 'OG’ swim with manatee tour at River Ventures’ full-service, one-stop adventure shop.
2,527 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
3196sandyf,,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Our trip was on 1/31/26 when the cold front + wind moved in. River Ventures literally bent over backwards to accommodate us with another trip due to cancelling our original one. Their check in staff is amazing ! Capt.Garrett drove & parked that pontoon boat better than I drive my car, & the wind made it tricky for him! Our guide Sheila was very informative, fun, and took us to soooo many places to see adult + baby manatees! This is the place to go with family or friends for a fantastic and memorable experience! Yummy hot chocolate or coffee provided after on the boat ride in + at their store: so many cool shirts and things to buy! My family had a great experience~~ don’t hesitate to book this tour! They also take pictures of you in the water during your trip and you have the option to purchase after the trip! We had a BLAST!!!
A3SQtravisg,,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had the time of our lives! This experience was incredible; and I would absolutely do it again!!! Bryan and Steven were both incredible guides / captains and really made the experience amazing.

John B,,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
Great experience!!! Melissa and Mai Lea were a great captain and guide. Let them take pics so you can maximize your experience.

Q7659XHkimi,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Crystal (guide) and Mike (captain) were both friendly, knowledgeable, and funny! They made the experience memorable and educational. We had a fabulous time and would love to come back! Also, Crystal provided us with amazing photos we never would have gotten ourselves!





O4488VOchristopherp,,Jan 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We were with guides Crystal and Shaggy and captain Wade. They were amazing! They made the trip enjoyable. They were knowledgeable. Not only did the care about us and our experience and safety, but also I could tell they cared very much about these creatures. We saw SO many Manatees. And the manatees did not disappoint! Coming right up to us.
L8347CHemilys,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
What an amazing experience!! SO awesome!! Piper, Shaggy and Mike were the best!! So professional and knowledgeable and fun!! Highly recommend!!!!
Tourist05640725157,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Guide Crystal and Captain Melissa were super professional and friendly. We had a great time and went there with our six-year-old child. Everything went very well—huge thanks to them! We would recommend this tour to families. Have fun and enjoy!

356kierstinl,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain Melissa and guide Crystal were fantastic! I came by myself and am not sure I would have felt as comfortable if I was with anyone else. They definitely made the experience the best that it could be!
Eric R,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Went with a group of 9. Classy outfit! We had Emerson & Liz. They were both great. Made the tour! Saw lots of manatees. Very fun day!
colleencL2039MG,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain more and Aiden were awesome
Operated by River Ventures