Can I touch a manatee?
Yes, but only with one hand - no holding on or hugging. Manatees are an endangered species, and as such are protected by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. So we will ask you to abide by certain rules and regulations when encountering manatees. We do not want to harass them, so no chasing, poking, prodding, feeding, riding, or capturing a manatee. Following these rules, the manatee will be protected and your encounter will be one of the most memorable and enjoyable experiences of your life.

Do I have to get into the water to see the manatees?
No, boat riders or "bubble watchers" are welcome. You can easily see the manatees' noses when they come to the surface to breathe. You can even sometimes touch them from the boat! The best tour for boat riders is the Homosassa River Tour.

When is the best time to see manatees?
November through April, when the most manatees are in the rivers, is the best time of year. And Tuesday through Thursday, early in the morning, is best because the rivers are less crowded.
But we do have tours year 'round!
 

I do not want to drive early in the morning to get there. Any suggestions as to where I can spend the night nearby?
Yes! Drive the day before your scheduled tour and stay the night in our waterfront villas. One, two, or three-bedrooms, furnished better than a hotel room, from only $89.99 to $119.99/night! Walk from your villa to the boat (Homosassa tour only). Check out the LODGING section of our website for photos and more information about these deluxe waterfront villas or cottages.

How long is the drive?
Approximate driving times (depending on traffic) from
Orlando - 1.5 hrs, Tampa - 1.5 hrs, Ft. Lauderdale/Miami - 4.5 hrs, Jacksonville
- 2.5 hours, Ft. Meyers - 4 hours, Sarasota - 2.5 hours, St. Petersburg - 2 to 2.5 hrs.

How many people are on the boat?
 We have six U.S. Coast Guard certified vessels with maximum capacities that vary from 12 to 22 passengers, so we try not to crowd! Usually we limit our Homosassa tour to 2 pontoon boats, one with 14 max. passengers and the other with 17 max. It is a small river, therefore: fewer boats and fewer people equal the BEST encounter! Tuesday through Thursday are our slower days.

What is the water temperature? Do I need a wetsuit?
Water temperature is a constant 72degrees F (25 C). A 3mm or better full wetsuit is recommended because of the length of time in the water. These are available to rent. After 1.0 - 1.5 hours, most people are chilled, but don't worry... we have hot chocolate to warm you up! And our boats are enclosed to keep the chill out. (A wetsuit rental is included with our Homosassa tour)

How deep is the water?
Anywhere from 3 feet to 20 feet deep. It all depends on where we find the manatees. Every day is different and manatees aren't in the same place every day. Crystal River is generally a bit deeper, 5' - 20' than the Homosassa, which is 3' - 10' deep. Most days you are in waist-high water in the Homosassa River.

Can children snorkel with the manatees? Any age limits?
Yes, children as well as seniors are welcome. There are no age limits, young or old! But should be comfortable in the water. Remember, wearing a wetsuit also helps you float and there is an American Pro Diving guide in the water with you to help.

Can I take pictures of the manatees?
YES, YES, YES!! Manatees LOVE to have their pictures taken. They will actually pose for the camera! You may purchase an underwater disposable camera at our Dive Center. Don't forget your guide will be videotaping your encounter - so SMILE! You may view the video after your tour and a copy is made available for purchase.

Which tour is the best - Crystal River or Homosassa River tour?
We recommend the Homosassa River Tour, especially if you are here on a weekend, or if you are a family with children on the tour. It will be easier for the children to snorkel in the shallower water and the river is less crowded.