Plantation Tours
1 hour
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 92% of travelers
92% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$25
per adult
Plantation Adventure Center
Plantation Adventure Center
5
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
We pride our selves on the many ways you can enjoy the Plantation Adventure Center. Swim alongside the gentle giants with daily Manatee snorkel tours. Enjoy a relaxing one hour Scenic Cruise of King's Bay or perhaps a Sunset Boat Ride. Kayak the refuge for an up-close encounter with out getting wet. Charter a fishing guide or scallop charter. We even offer rental boats for the experienced travelers. The pride of our operation is our Manatee Tours, Semi-Private or Private Manatee tour. We offer heated changing facility with no parking fees. Captains provide hot chocolate, coffee, bottle water and towels on all our snorkel tours. Crystal River offers the best location to see and interact with the Florida manatee. We provide pre-tour education on passive observation and how to get the best experience during the tour.
Crystal River, Florida
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by Plantation Adventure Center
Likely To Sell Out
3 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 99% of travelers
99% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$99
per adult
Likely To Sell Out
4 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 100% of travelers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$600
per group
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
4,425 reviews
Excellent
4,210
Very good
138
Average
45
Poor
18
Terrible
14
dreavis2018
Gulfport, FL43 contributions
Jul 2020 • Couples
Our adventure was an afternoon of scalloping in the Gulf. This was our third time scalloping, and our second time booking it through the Plantion Adventure Center. This was our best trip yet, because the new protocol there at Plantation is to assign you both a captain and first mate to ensure not only your safety, but to ensure that you get coached on scalloping while you're in the water, while the captain remains on board making sure everyone is accounted for, watching for inclement weather and patrolling for boaters who might look reckless and post a safety threat. The first mate also searches for scallops and this way your bounty is bigger! Our team was Captain Jeff and First mate Mark. Jeff's boat was spic and span and careful attention was paid to sanitizing the snorkel equipment. Mark does Manatee tours in Manatee season, so was able to act as a tour guide and was full of fun facts. They were both likeable and attentive. Our group consisted of 3 adults of varying skill levels, and if it wasn't for Mark...our scalloping would not have been so productive. If you want to book a trip, and have some flexibility...ask them to look at the tide charts and go at low tide. We had the high tide...next time I will request low tide. This is a fun trip, and a quintessential Florida thing to do!
Written July 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brad Miller
1 contribution
Jul 2020
My wife has always wanted to go scalloping and my kids wanted to swim with Manatees. We booked a couple different excursions with the Adventure Center at Plantation Resort and everything we ended up doing was very well done.
First day / morning my wife, two kids (8 and 10) and I set out on a scalloping adventure with Captain Dustin. He and his dad were incredible sharing background on Crystal River and then giving us an experience we will never forget. Needless to say we are newbies at this and Capt. Dustin helped everyone find scallops, and enough for a good dinner back at Plantation. My wife and son said this was their favorite adventure.
Day two the four of us got up for the 7 am manatee snorkel with Capt. Ross and Capt. Mike. This too was an amazing experience and lots of history. I am not used to wearing a wet suit in FL but realized why pretty quick as Capt. Ross spotted a manatee just as we were leaving Plantation and we all got to experience mirky water but still a good time with a manatee. The second stop had a mother and calf and the water was very clear. Capt. Ross had a video camera and made sure both kids got practically kissed by the manatee.
We then did the sunset cruise and Capt. Ross was back for round two with us. This was a perfect way to end a few days vacation as the boat ride was relaxing and the sunset beautiful.
On the drive home my wife and kids said that we need to come back soon, and I agree.
First day / morning my wife, two kids (8 and 10) and I set out on a scalloping adventure with Captain Dustin. He and his dad were incredible sharing background on Crystal River and then giving us an experience we will never forget. Needless to say we are newbies at this and Capt. Dustin helped everyone find scallops, and enough for a good dinner back at Plantation. My wife and son said this was their favorite adventure.
Day two the four of us got up for the 7 am manatee snorkel with Capt. Ross and Capt. Mike. This too was an amazing experience and lots of history. I am not used to wearing a wet suit in FL but realized why pretty quick as Capt. Ross spotted a manatee just as we were leaving Plantation and we all got to experience mirky water but still a good time with a manatee. The second stop had a mother and calf and the water was very clear. Capt. Ross had a video camera and made sure both kids got practically kissed by the manatee.
We then did the sunset cruise and Capt. Ross was back for round two with us. This was a perfect way to end a few days vacation as the boat ride was relaxing and the sunset beautiful.
On the drive home my wife and kids said that we need to come back soon, and I agree.
Written July 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
loveadventure4
Bonita Springs, FL139 contributions
Jan 2020
We took the 7 a.m. group manatee tour last week with our guide, Misty and Captain Mike. On arrival to the Adventure Center we were quickly checked in and given a wet suit. These suits are thicker than those used at most of the other companies and with the temperatures in the low 50s when we went out, the extra insulation was appreciated for warmth, and even more so in the water as they added to our buoyancy making it easy to float and fully enjoy the manatees. We watched a short video prior to leaving that explained the rules for snorkeling with these gentle giants, and then Mike took us on the short boat ride to our viewing spot. After receiving instructions from Misty, we entered the water and spent the next hour completely enthralled. As we lucked into one of the colder mornings of the month, the manatee were everywhere. They are curious creatures who seemed as interested in us as we in them. Misty knew where to go for the best opportunities for interaction and also made certain to get great photos of each of us with her Go Pro 8 camera. What a special experience to have a manatee “kiss” your face, hold your arm with its fins, or just “snuggle” against you for warmth. The hour went by much too quickly. After our swim, Captain MIke greeted us with coffee and hot chocolate. After returning to the dock, we removed our wet suits (there were showers available for those not staying at the resort) and got to view the videos and photos that Misty had taken. An unforgettable trip!
Written January 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SAM
1 contribution
Jan 2020
We chose Plantation because a local recommended them, and we were so glad we did! The facilities were clean, the staff was professional and personable, and I felt like I knew exactly what to expect when we got there. The wet suits and other gear was clean and well taken care of - which is a big plus for me. There is nothing worse than stepping into a wet suit that smells like mildew! Misty and Steve were our captain and guide for the tour. They were super infomative and eager to make sure we had a great time while being well informed about the expectations of interacting with the manatees. And Misty took great pics of our trip! I highly recommend this outfit!
Written January 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tracyp
Hartford, CT5 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
Mike and Ryan were fantastic. They took us to a location where our small group was able to get up close and personal with multiple manatees. They found a place for us to snorkel where there weren't a ton of other boats so you're not sharing the manatee with a bunch of other people and bumping into other people. We took the first trip out in the morning, which I would recommend, before it gets too crowded and the water has decreased visibility. Wet suits, hot coffee and hot chocolate, towels, and boat coats to keep warm were provided. The boat was covered and had walls to keep us warm. They take excellent videos and photos of your group with the manatees, which you can purchase for a reasonable price. All staff we interacted with were friendly and eager to help. Not all companies are the same. Book your trip with them!
Written January 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ewc427
Fort Walton Beach, FL3 contributions
Jan 2022
What an amazing experience! This has been a bucket-list item for many years and was everything I wanted it to be! Dustin and Christian were amazing guides. They provided tips about the local area, how to snorkel and made us feel safe throughout the entire tour. We came face to face with several manatees during our 3 hour small-group tour. We ended up booking an afternoon tour because all the morning tours were already booked - we apparently saw fewer manatees than some of the morning tours BUT the outside temperature was much more comfortable for swimming. The water did get a bit chilly after being in for a while, so maybe consider wearing a swim shirt or leggings underneath your wet suit. Water shoes might have also helped keep my feet a bit warmer! The minute we got out of the water, we were offered jackets, coffee, and hot coca and warmed up quickly.
Overall, such a great tour! We can't wait to come back soon and check it out again!
Overall, such a great tour! We can't wait to come back soon and check it out again!
Written January 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nadine M
Davie, FL2 contributions
Dec 2020 • Family
There aren’t enough words to express how amazing this experience was! Despite it being a busy time, we managed to see so many manatees! They even came
up to us and let us pet them! As incredible as that was, a big part of our experience was thanks to the Captain & Jessica. They really put in an effort to make sure we were able to see as much as possible! Captain was knowledgeable and hilarious, he pointed out dolphins and every manatee we passed. Jessica was right by us the entire time, even helped my mom maneuver in the water. Both of them really went the extra mile to make sure our family had the best time. Thank you again!!
Pro tips:
- The earlier the tour the better; less people at the springs, better visibility
- Take towels; they provide them on board but you’ll want a fresh one if you use their showers on site
- Ask for Captain Loopy & Mermaid Jessica; He’s also the best baristo (😉) in town, don’t pass up the chance to try his manatee mocha!
up to us and let us pet them! As incredible as that was, a big part of our experience was thanks to the Captain & Jessica. They really put in an effort to make sure we were able to see as much as possible! Captain was knowledgeable and hilarious, he pointed out dolphins and every manatee we passed. Jessica was right by us the entire time, even helped my mom maneuver in the water. Both of them really went the extra mile to make sure our family had the best time. Thank you again!!
Pro tips:
- The earlier the tour the better; less people at the springs, better visibility
- Take towels; they provide them on board but you’ll want a fresh one if you use their showers on site
- Ask for Captain Loopy & Mermaid Jessica; He’s also the best baristo (😉) in town, don’t pass up the chance to try his manatee mocha!
Written December 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emmlet83
Madison, WI66 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We've done many manatee tours and Plantation is by far the most professional and responsible. They truly care about the manatees and doing it right by the manatees, but they also deliver an amazing experience every time! We always go with them when we come to town. Captain Ed and Jeff were especially great! And the pictures and video they take are great quality and allow you to live in the moment without bringing your own camera along. Go with Plantation, you won't regret it!
Written January 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
marilunisc
The Villages, FL4 contributions
Jan 2022
We had an amazing private tour with Captain Corey and Cortney the divemaster/photographer and nature expert.
We were first out to Three Sisters Springs and on the way up we saw a dolphin playing in the river. We saw manatees from beginning to end and were able to interact with them up close and personally.
Corey and Cortney are friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable.
We have some amazing pictures and wonderful memories - I highly recommend taking a manatee tour with Plantation Adventure Center.
We were first out to Three Sisters Springs and on the way up we saw a dolphin playing in the river. We saw manatees from beginning to end and were able to interact with them up close and personally.
Corey and Cortney are friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable.
We have some amazing pictures and wonderful memories - I highly recommend taking a manatee tour with Plantation Adventure Center.
Written January 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rusty
2 contributions
Dec 2020 • Business
Paul Cross and his captains are a great bunch of folks and know the area like the back of their hands. On a Manatee tour, they are the very best at finding them. The manatees are thick in the bay right now and this is the best time of year to go check them out. There are also a number of fishing guides that work out of the adventure center. It’s very rare to see them come back with a client empty-handed. The fishing down there is as good as you’ll find anywhere.
Written December 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Heather H
Tampa, Florida
I want to purchase the pontoon/dry cruise but trying to make sure we can bring our Yorkie on with us?
Written February 21, 2020
I don’t know. But ask the hotel.
Written August 21, 2019
Best time is Nov through March, they gather in the protected springs and parks when temperatures drop. You can always see Manatees around the state more coastal but not necessarily in large numbers.
Written March 28, 2019
Hi. Are the tours on even in rainy days? I am doing one tomorrow at 10:30.
Written February 26, 2019
sumena t
Wyckoff, New Jersey
How strong of a swimmer do you have to be to swim with the manatees? I’m not a great swimmer & have a 4 yr old.
Written October 29, 2018
You just have to be able to float (with wetsuit on) and snorkle. It helps to be able to not flail around, and they discourage standing on the bottom because it kicks up mud so no one can see clearly. But there is no current and you don't really have to swim much at all.
Written October 29, 2018
We want to scalllop ... can pontoons be taken to scalloping areas?
Written August 1, 2018
We would like to come this sunday with our childeren they are 2,5 and 4,5. Is that possible? Do we need to pay for them?
How long does the trip takes?
How much is iT for adults?
Are there stil manatees to see, because iT isnt the season anymore.
Written May 3, 2018
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