Swim With the Manatees, Homosassa, Florida
Swim With The Manatees Directions

Manatee Swim Tours
Frequently Asked Questions

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         (US / CANADA) 866-MILLSAP (645-5727) 5AM – 10PM
(Eastern Time)
             (UK) 0808-234-8078 10AM – 3AM (BST) 9AM – 2AM
(standard)

Question Answer
1. How much does it cost? $50 (US) includes mask, fins, and snorkel, and wetsuit. Additionally this we include a FREE underwater camera. (one per booking)
2. Are you available for group tours? To ensure comfort for our passengers and the tranquility of the manatees we only schedule up to 15 persons on our 24 passenger tour boat. In keeping with my tradition of boarding 15 passengers on my 24 passenger boat I will only reserve for groups of up to 30 at two different times per day only from November through March when manatees are in larger numbers in our area. There are tour operators that you may contact with up to 8 boats but that will surely diminish the quality of your manatee swim.
3. Do you do dive instruction? Yes, our associate is a certified PADI instructor. Click here for additional information.
4. Do you do scuba diving trips? Yes. We have partners that will accommodate you for diving the King's Springs in Crystal River. Call 352.621.0498 for more information.
5. Are there close by accommodations or home rentals? For overnight lodging we recommend the Riverside Resort in Homosassa.  For more information and other accommodations please click here.  Accommodations 
6. How do I find you? Here are driving directions to the Nature Coast and Homosassa, Florida. Directions
Driving times are: 2 hours from Orlando, Tampa, Gainesville; 3 hours from Jacksonville; 3 hours from Sarasota; 3.5 hours from Tallahassee; 5 hours from Miami.
7. Where do I meet you for the tour? We meet at the Riverside Resort in Homosassa. Directions.
8. Are there age limits? There are no age limits, just the ability to swim.
9. Why do you recommend wet suits? The water temperature in the Homosassa River is a constant 72 degrees year around. This may seem warm but prolonged exposure could result in hypothermia. Therefore we recommend a wetsuit. 
10. How long will we be in the water? Manatee tours last approximately 3 hours.
11. What sort of protection from the weather can we expect aboard the tour boat? Our boat is covered with clear plastic that can be raised or lowered and our boat is heated. Since we are only minutes from the springs weather is rarely a concern. However, we will cancel because of lightning activity. 
12. Where do I change clothes? We have a curtained area on the boat that can be closed off to ensure privacy while changing. 
13. What do I need to bring? Bathing suit and towel. A sweat suit is recommended for after the swim.
14. How do I snorkel? I've never snorkeled before. We will show a short video on the basics of snorkeling as well as a video on manatee manners. Your captain or mate will assist you in the water also. For most it only takes a few minutes to become accustomed to snorkeling.
15. How big are the manatees? Manatees can reach up to 2000 lbs or more but are very gentle and curious mammals that love to play. They may even roll over and let you scratch their bellies. For more manatee information click here. Manatee information.
16. How deep is the water? The Homosassa River averages 3-10 feet deep. This is better for younger children.
17. Can I take pictures? Yes, it sometimes seems the manatees are posing for you. 
18. What else is there to do in the area? I have compiled a list of things to do in our area and most do not require a reservation. Ask me for a copy when you arrive for your tour.
19. What is your cancellation policy?

We require seven (7) days notification if you wish to cancel a tour.  This is consistent with airline, car rental agency and hotel policies.  If you have reserved a tour for a group of 10 or more, we require a 3 week cancellation notice.  We will not refund short-notice cancellations.  We pre-charge all credit card reservations for the cost of the tour.  We have always required a credit card to hold a reservation.  Unfortunately, we have had a lot of people reserve spots on a tour and then not show up.  We make a commitment to you, who often travel long distances to get here, that you will have a seat on one of our boats.  We need the same commitment from you that you will arrive and be on time.  Otherwise, we needlessly disappoint someone else who would have liked your space(s) on the tour and / or we pay a Captain that we did not need.  This cancellation policy is to give us time to re-sell any seats left vacant and helps us keep our prices reasonable for you.  Thank you for understanding.

20. What times are your tours? Our swim tours are at 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM. See schedule on rates page for summer information.
21. Do you offer private swim tours? Yes, but only for groups of 15 or more.
22. How about scalloping? Scalloping season is from July 1-Sept 10. Please visit our scallop page for more information.
23. Do you provide airport or hotel pickup?
Yes, from Orlando and Tampa. Our affiliate Wayne's Taxi can pick you up at the hotel or airport. Rates are $90 each way to/from Tampa and Orlando. We can accommodate up to 10 passengers.  For reservations call:  352.564.8294

We hope to see you soon and have a safe trip as always. Capt Mike

Manatee tours conducted 7 days a week, year around.

©2006 Manatee Swim Tours

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