Manatees

[simbrooks]

The issue with renting your own boat is that often the hire times start at 8am, way after all the boats with all their folks have gone out and chased the manatees back into the sanctuary - i dont care what they tell you and how the video tells you or even that FDEP/F&W folks are there, the folks still chase after them. I just tend to drift off a way from the crowds barely making a movement and the manatees come up to you as do the schools of fish - same with practically any other creature.

 

[H2Andy]

same with practically any other creature.

i am going to try this with drop-dead gourgeous models

 

[CBulla]

I'd rented a boat a few years ago on the way to Gennie 1 - it was a very cool experience, it was not crowded, it was easy to find how/where to go to get around as the channel and santuaries are clearly marked, and it was considerably cheaper!

 

[skybird]

was just told that I should wait and not go this time of the year. Would there be a chance that if I went now it wold be for nothig? Also talking abouat the expense, I relly don't see $30 that terrible. But would be terrible if I went and didn't get to encounter any manatees

 

[Rick Murchison]

Maybe things have changed and there are manatees who hang around Crystal River all year, but they dang sure didn't used to show up until the water in the Gulf got down to at least 70 F or so - usually mid to late December.
This site (the folks who ought to know) sez "winter" for non-captive manatee viewings...
I'd hate for y'all to make a trip and get disappointed.
Rick

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

Meanwhile, a couple months ago(July) I swam with Manatees right off the beach in Destin, FL - LOL Ricky's right, they're all soaking up the sun and checking out the ladies at the beach!

 

[ScubaAdam]

I grew up around Crystal River and have gone snorkeling with the Manatees numerous times. I would advise against renting a boat, it is pretty easy to get lost. Trust me, I speak from experience. Whenever we have family in town we always use http://www.manatee-central.com they are pretty cheap and very nice people. Always a good time. And the best part is they are right by Crackers, which is a great place to grab lunch and some drinks afterwards!

 

[Sideband]

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

I prefer a wetsuit, fins, mask and snorkle. Not the prettiest outfit but very practical.

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

I'll second Crackers, I even noted it in my logbook for having great AJ sandwiches

 

[Ed Jackson1]

I recommend doing the tour with crystal lodge dive center and then renting a boat next time. The tour is cheap and shows you how to get to the spring when you rent a boat.