Manatee FAQs: What Types of Tours Do You Offer?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees offers a variety of manatee tours in Florida, including large group tours, private swim experiences, kayak tours, paddleboard tours, and rental boats.
  2. Each tour option provides a unique way to experience manatees in their natural habitat, catering to different preferences and interests.
  3. Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees, located in Crystal River, FL, is an ideal destination for an unforgettable manatee adventure.

Introduction

Manatees are gentle, slow-moving marine mammals that have captured the hearts of people around the world. Florida is one of the best places to experience these majestic creatures up close, and Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees offers a variety of types of manatee tours in Florida to suit every visitor’s preferences. In this article, we will discuss the different types of tours available based on insights provided by Justin Strickland, the manager of Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees.

Large Group Tours

For those looking to join a larger group of fellow manatee enthusiasts, Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees offers boat tours that can accommodate up to 34 persons. This option allows visitors to share their manatee experience with a larger group, making it an excellent choice for socializing and meeting new people with a shared interest in these fascinating marine mammals.

Private Swim Experience

For visitors who prefer a more intimate and personal experience, Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees offers smaller boat tours that can accommodate up to six persons. These private swim experiences allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the manatee encounter, providing a more exclusive and tailored experience.

Kayak Tours

In addition to boat tours, Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees offers a variety of kayak tours for those who wish to explore the waters at their own pace. Tandem kayaks can hold up to two persons, making them perfect for couples or friends who want to share the adventure. Single kayaks are also available for individuals who prefer to paddle solo.

Paddleboard Tours

Paddleboarding is another exciting way to experience manatees in their natural habitat. Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees provides paddleboard rentals for visitors who want to try this popular water sport while observing manatees up close. Paddleboarding offers a unique perspective on the water and allows for a more interactive experience with marine life.

Rental Boats

For those who prefer to captain their own vessel, Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees offers rental boats that can accommodate up to 10 persons. Renting a boat allows visitors to create their own custom manatee tour, exploring the waters of Crystal River, FL at their leisure and focusing on the areas they find most interesting.

Experience Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees

Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees offers a diverse range of types of manatee tours in Crystal River, FL, ensuring that every visitor can find the perfect tour to suit their preferences. From large group tours to private swim experiences, kayak and paddleboard adventures, and rental boats, there is an option for everyone. Book a tour with Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees today and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with these gentle giants.

TRANSCRIPTION:

Frequently Asked Manatee Questions. What types of tours do you offer?

So we have so many options to choose from when it comes to our tours.

We of course have a boat that will accommodate up to 34 persons. We also have boats that only accommodate up to six persons for those that wish to have the private swim experience. Also, we have several different kayaks to choose from. We have tandem kayaks that will hold up to two persons. We also have single kayaks if you wish to be on your own. In addition to that,

we have paddle boards as well as rental boats that will accommodate up to 10 persons

How manatees drink while swimming

Like other mammals, manatees need an adequate amount of water to fulfill vital body functions.  From transportation, temperature regulation, pH control, digestion, joint lubrication, to hydrolysis and energy production, a steady supply of water helps to keep a manatee alive. Of course, the body of the sea cow is mostly water while all chemical reactions in their body also require water as a medium. 

Penchant for fresh water

Manatees like fresh water. When residing in freshwater habitats, the animals drink a lot of water as they swim.  And with their ability to move each side of their lip pads independently, manatees have a lip flexibility that allows them to drink water as they swim. In fact, a sea cow dwelling in fresh water drinks at least 20 liters of water per day.

Not all the daily water supply is through drinking. Since the animals consume large quantities of fresh water plants, a huge part of their daily water requirement is supplied through the vegetation. 

The animals spend up to 8 hours each day feeding on freshwater plants such as alligator weed, water lettuce, water celery, floating hyacinth, pickerelweed, Hydrilla, and musk grass. The water-rich plants supply at least another 25 liters of water to the animals.

Dislike for salty water

When swimming in salty water, manatees rarely drink the water. In fact, from a daily water intake of at least 45 liters when in freshwater habitats, manatees scale down their water intake to as low as 5 liters per day. And even the 5 liters does not usually come from directly drinking water, but from the sea grass they consume. 

Cutting down on water intake when they are in saltwater habitats reduces the amount of salt in their bodies and helps with plasma osmolality and plasma concentrations of sodium and chloride. This helps them maintain a fairly normal salt-water balance during their time in marine habitats.

But even without drinking the salty water, the animals inadvertently swallow some water. So, they need a means of removing the excess salt. This is why their kidneys are specially adapted to filtering out excess salts. And with increased salt intake, their kidneys swing into action and increase the rate of salt filtration and removal from blood.

As they continue to feed on sea grasses, the salt levels in their blood continue to rise to quantities that their kidneys are not able to filter out efficiently. So as an immediate measure, the animals usually stop grazing and spend the next few hours to days looking for nearby sources of fresh water. 

Under these circumstances, a manatee stops drinking and feeding for as long as it can wait to access fresh water. Usually, they can hold out for 1-2 weeks as they engage in the search and drink whatever type of fresh water they come across. No wonder manatees are often seen drinking rain water from downspouts and water from unusual sources such as drainage hoses.  

Habitat-dependent behavior

Therefore, how and when manatees drink water depends on its immediate habitat. Since the animals can inhabit both freshwater and saltwater areas, they vary the amount of water they drink according to their habitat. 

And so when they can readily access fresh water, the animals freely imbibe water as they swim. But when in salty water, they stop drinking water and wait out until they can again access fresh water. Remember, they need fresh water for salt-water balance, transport, and metabolic reactions that take place in their body.

Wonderful, unforgettable manatee tours

Would you like to spend some time out in the water with the manatees? At Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees, we provide manatee tours designed to give you an up close and personal interaction with these adorable creatures.

During your manatee tour, you’ll see and learn a lot about these animals and the need to protect them and their habitats. For more information on manatees and manatee tours in Crystal River, Florida, visit the site “Captain Mike’s swimming with the manatees.”

Top Things to Do in Crystal River, Florida

Crystal River is a uniquely quiet, scenic, and welcoming town located in Central Florida’s “Nature Coast.” In fact, it is one of Florida’s most stunning destinations, supplied with a natural freshwater river system and a wide range of wildlife.

Due to its strategic location, impressive natural features and abundant wildlife, there are many things you can do and enjoy during your visit to Crystal River.

What are the top things to do in Crystal River?

  1. Swim with the manatees

With a count exceeding 70, Florida boasts an abundance of freshwater springs. Furthermore, these springs serve as natural sanctuaries for manatees, particularly during the winter months. This is especially true when the Gulf of Mexico experiences plummeting temperatures that become unsuitable for these gentle creatures. The warm water temperature in the springs attracts manatees, where tourists can see and swim with them.

If you have never been around a giant mammal and manatees are on your list, then plan a manatee tour in Florida.

Crystal River is the only place in the United States where you can legally swim with manatees. Optimally, the prime period to plan your visit is from November to March. During this timeframe, you’ll witness the highest concentration of manatees migrating to the springs. This phenomenon occurs as they seek refuge from the frigid temperatures of the Gulf of Mexico.

  1. Enjoy scalloping

Scalloping is easier than fishing and still a thrilling aquatic activity. With only your snorkel gear and a mesh bag, you are ready to swim gently along the shallow grass beds in search of scallops.

You will be able to see and collect scallops quickly.

Just be careful not to be too disruptive in the water as the scallops may slam their shells shut and even swim away from you.

  1. Visit Three Sisters Springs

Three Sisters Springs is located at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Though land or water access to the springs is limited, you can still visit the wildlife refuge to see what it offers. You can park somewhere at the city hall, hop onto a trolley bus, and drive past downtown Crystal River to your destination.

When you arrive at the wildlife refuge, you will find a sanctuary specifically designated to preserve and protect manatees. It hosts up to 600 manatees every winter, making it an excellent place to see manatees. Take an exhilarating walk along the wooden sidewalk and observe manatees in the dazzling waters of Three Sisters Springs.

You can take the short drive south to Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park for a more spectacular encounter with wildlife. You will love this wildlife park with its abundance of native animals, plants, and birds in their natural habitat.

Additionally, you will also love the educational program in the park and appreciate the detailed explanations about different types of wildlife that live there.

  1. Enjoy water activities

There are many water activities to enjoy in Crystal River. You can engage in kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, swimming, jet-skiing, or paddleboarding. There is no limit to what you can do in the numerous water bodies.

You can bring your watercraft and swim or paddle around on your own, or you can select from one of several local tour companies that offer water activities.

At Captain Mike’s kayak academy, we offer discounted rentals on regular kayaks and paddleboards and provide all-clear kayaks and launches. Kayaking in Crystal River, FL is a popular activity at Captain Mike’s.

We can assist you with a nature tour or sunset cruise of King’s Bay. Plus, you can go to Fort Island, Gulf Beach—the white, powdery, sandy beach in Crystal River—located at the end of the Fort Island Trail.

  1. Walk downtown Crystal River

Embark on a leisurely stroll through downtown Crystal River, and you’ll immediately see why it holds the moniker “Fisherman Village.” As you explore North Citrus Avenue, marvel at the canopied oaks, swaying palm trees, and fragrant magnolias.

Moreover, you’ll find delight in the meticulously preserved cracker-style cottages that date back to the early 1800s. All this while you relish a delicious lunch or engage in souvenir shopping.

Crystal River, Florida, boasts an array of dining establishments where you can savor delectable cuisine, particularly seafood. When in the area, don’t miss the chance to sample the fresh catch of the day. Choose an eatery that adheres to COVID-19 protocols while delivering high-quality seafood. After your satisfying meal, take a leisurely stroll to a nearby ice cream parlor.

Are you contemplating a visit to Florida? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees to secure your manatee tour and make arrangements for an array of other exciting activities to enhance your visit.

At Captain Mike’s, we place high value on our clients, consistently delivering exceptional quality and value. Rest assured, your tour with us will surpass your expectations!

Customer Testimonial: I Recommend Captain Mike’s Swimming With The Manatees

Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees is an experience of a lifetime! Traveling aboard clean, comfortable, child-safe, pet-friendly, and wheelchair-accessible boats is a highlight of the experience. Additionally, these boats are equipped with restrooms and changing rooms for your convenience. Captain Mike’s guests can enjoy an exciting and yet comfortable immersion in the outdoor environment of Crystal River. Here, you’ll be surrounded by its abundant natural beauty and captivating scenery. The tour offers clean, high-quality snorkeling equipment. Additionally, you can enjoy great snacks and drinks during the trip. For meals, there are delicious options available at a local restaurant. The tour is led by experienced guides and professional staff who possess knowledge and love for the manatees. Therefore, Captain Mike’s manatee tours offer a memorable experience that guarantees your satisfaction and guarantees great Customer Testimonial.

Arrival

Upon arrival, you are greeted at the front door with a smile, and immediately you realize this is a place for fun and adventure. Along with the other tourists, you will view videos with tips for safe snorkeling, kayaking, or swimming with manatees. This informative video will prepare you for a memorable and enjoyable experience as you interact with manatees. Then, you will be issued wet suits and then escorted to the dock to meet your captain. At Captain Mike’s, all manatee tours are directed by certified captains with the requisite training, experience and expertise. Furthermore, the small, semi-private manatee tours offer personalized service in a small group and provide the best value.

The Trip

There is never a dull moment on the trip. The captains and their crew are amazingly knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. Everyone on board can chat, laugh, dance, share their excitement and have a great time. Meanwhile, the tour guide will lead the search for manatees, combing every nook and cranny of the Crystal River waterscape to ensure you actually see and swim with live manatees. And when manatees are spotted, the in-water guide will advise and monitor you to ensure a safe snorkeling experience.

For those who have an aversion to getting wet, Captain Mike’s offers a dry tour option. This choice enables you to observe manatees from the comfort of the boat. This alternative accommodates a diverse range of preferences, ensuring that everyone can partake in the marvel of witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Furthermore, the tour guides at Captain Mike’s are ready to capture your manatee snorkel experience upon request. Additionally, they employ a high-definition digital camera to document the journey from start to finish. Also, the resulting pictures are then made available to participants at the conclusion of the tour. This service adds an additional layer of delight, allowing participants to revisit memorable moments shared with these remarkable animals.

Conclusion

Whether you’re setting out on your initial tour or revisiting for another, Captain Mike will stir the inner child and nature enthusiast in you. His expertise and passion guarantee that each encounter is as educational as it is enjoyable. In fact, numerous individuals who have partaken in Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees opt to come back repeatedly and left great customer testimonial. This experience presents an exceptional fusion of excitement and exploration, rendering it an essential destination for anyone journeying to Florida. Now, to learn more about manatee tours, please visit Swimming with the Manatees.

Customer Testimonial: I give Captain Mike’s two thumbs up

Going to the manatees aboard Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees is a chance to share in a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Captain Mike’s provides stable and comfortable boats, along with highly trained personnel ensuring safety and enjoyment. Furthermore, these tours are designed to create unforgettable memories in the beautiful setting of Crystal River, Florida. Whether you love to get in the water for snorkeling, kayaking, or swimming, Captain Mike’s friendly instructors got you. Additionally, they will guide you through the experience of exploring the breathtaking aquatic life of Crystal River, Florida. Captain Mike’s also boast great customer testimonial.

Impeccable Preparation

At Captain Mike’s, nothing is left to chance. Before departing, tourists watch a manatee interaction video that clearly outlines the dos and don’ts of swimming with manatees. Tourists are also instructed on how to wear and use different safety gear. Additionally, they learn how to behave in the water and how to interact with the manatees.

Comfortable Touring Boats

Captain Mike’s has stable, comfortable boats that ensure a delightful experience right from departure. The boats have full bathrooms and are spacious enough to allow the dance crew on board to entertain guests with amazing tunes and incredible dance moves. Anyone can join in the dancing and enjoy the thrill of a festive atmosphere throughout the trip.

Friendly and Knowledgeable Crews

With Captain Mike’s Crystal River tours, you get to spend your entire trip in the company of the most friendly and knowledgeable people. All of the guides, bus drivers, boat captains and airboat pilots are informed and always helpful. Guests are never rushed and they get to see everything as planned. The service also provides equipment rentals for various water sports, so you will not have to look elsewhere for the equipment you need for your trip. For the extraordinary service they offer, I give Captain Mike’s two thumbs up! Customer Testimonial

Yearning for a marvelous trip to replenish your energy and experience something exhilarating? By choosing Captain Mike’s manatee tours, you can experience an incredible eco-tour and enjoy the thrill and beauty of Crystal River, Florida. For more information about the manatee tour, and customer testimonial, visit the website of Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees.

What type of boats do you have?

We offer an impressive selection of pontoon boats tailored to enhance your Crystal River experience. These watercraft come in 10-17 passenger capacities, ensuring both small and larger groups can revel in the beauty of the river comfortably. Our dedication to providing top-notch equipment is evident in the quality and amenities of our boats.

Among our fleet, you’ll find meticulously equipped pontoon boats that boast a bimini top. This thoughtful feature lets you seek refuge from the sun, guaranteeing a pleasant and comfortable journey throughout your exploration. Crystal River’s sun-soaked days are no match for the shade and convenience our boats offer.

For families seeking a spacious aquatic adventure, our 15 passenger and 17 passenger pontoons stand ready to accommodate. These boats cater to larger families, granting everyone the chance to revel in the sights and sounds of Crystal River together.

When it comes to rental prices, transparency is our motto. Our pontoon rental rates are straightforward, with no hidden fees to catch you off guard. What you see is precisely what you pay, ensuring that you can plan your adventure with confidence. Notably, the ticket price includes fuel, eliminating any worries about additional expenses.

Whether you’re a small group or a larger family, our pontoon boats are here to elevate your Crystal River escapade. Experience the river’s wonders while basking in the comfort and convenience our boats provide. Your aquatic journey is about to be enhanced, with every detail meticulously designed to offer you the finest adventure on the water.

For more information about manatees and manatee tours, visit Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees website.