Manatees

[skybird]

Can anyone recommend the best outfit for diving/snorkling with the manatees at Crystal River?

 

[theskull]

Can't say whether they're the best, but have had excellent service from Crystal Lodge Dive Center, (800) 435-4409, http://www.manatee-central.com , on several occasions.

theskull

 

[H2Andy]

i've been out with Birds Underwater several times, each time has been awesome

not the cheapest, but worth it. boat is close to the manatees, and they get you out there early before the hordes arrive

A+ in my book

 

[BJ VanDuyn]

I have been out with both Crystal Lodge Dive center and Bird's Underwater. They each have been great and provided a fantastic trip. But due to Bird's location I think they have an advantage of time to the site and they were quite a bit earlier than the crowd. Enjoy

 

[Jake]

Can anyone recommend the best outfit for diving/snorkling with the manatees at Crystal River?

I've heard that they like it when you dress up your outfit. Maybe consider a tie.

Ok, ending threadjack....

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

I went with Manatee Safari's they limit their boat to 6 people so you aren't packed like a sardine in a can. The staff was knowledgable and helpfull and they knew places to catch manatee encounters where the crowds weren't an issue.

 

[photohikedive]

is there really a need to use a charter? are there no self directed areas?

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

If you have a boat, the areas are easy to find

 

[Walter]

Several places will rent you a boat fairly cheaply. IMO, Bird's is overpriced. You can have a better time at Crystal River on your own from a rented boat.

 

[H2Andy]

You can have a better time at Crystal River on your own from a rented boat.

you sure can, if you know what you are doing.

i'd end up lost or stuck somewhere.

another alternative is to get a group and that makes the cost of the boat rental a lot cheaper. not sure what the total cost would be, though.