Manatee
FAQ
American Pro Diving Center welcomes your visit to Crystal River Florida
for a relaxing, quaint, small town that is the home of the manatee. Our
town is best described as the gem of the nature coast. We have listed
below some of the questions we are often asked, with their answers. For
more information or to make reservations for snorkeling, diving, or
lodging, please call 1-800-291-DIVE, or Contact Us
. Below are some manatee frequently asked questions and manatee information.
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!
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.
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