Today we went snorkeling with the manatee at The Plantation Dive shop with Captain Ed... It was one of the best experiences we have ever had. We took the private tour. Captain Ed was so nice and informative. I have three children 8,9 and 11 and they said this experience was better than Disney!! If you ever have the opportunity you must take this once in a life time opportunity and ask for Captain Ed!!

Plantation Inn Dive Shop is a great way to snorkel on the Crystal River to view the manatees and Three Sisters Springs. Captain Ross is a very experienced guide and provided a very pleasant trip around the area to swim with the manatees. Very relaxing experience with a well equipped boat, equipment, and captain.

Wow!! What a well run dive shop! When we arrived at 7:15, we were provided our gear (wet suit and fins) and we were able to change our clothes in a nice clean restroom/dressing room/with shower! They even have lockers to store your clothes! After watching the safety video, we boarded our boat. Your mask and snorkel are given to you on the boat. Captain Ed took us to Kings Spring for our first manatee encounter! Stick close to Captain Ed and he will make sure you have the opportunity to interact with the manatees! Amazing experience!! After boarding the boat - which has zippered window and door coverings -too keep the cold air off of you!! we headed to Three Sisters! What a beautiful spring with crystal clear water! As we were going in, a mother and baby were coming out! Captain Ed videoed and photographed our adventure. After exploring and interacting with another manatee, back to the boat we went. We were provided with towels and either hot chocolate, coffee or tea! When we returned to the dive shop, a hot shower to clean off and warm up was quite a treat! We were able to purchase the DVD to share our experience with others..and to watch over and over!
Highly recommend The Plantation Inn Dive Shop crew! 5+++ stars
We will be back again! Thanks!!