About this Event
From November to March, manatees migrate to the warmer waters of the spring, making this a popular spot to view them in their natural habitat right from our paddle boards. Our tour is longer than most to give ample time to connect with wildlife and nature. There is also an opportunity to swim with them if you'd like to bring your snorkel gear, and this spot is waaaay less crowded than Crystal River. Trip photos always included!
Located just 1.5 hours west of Orlando, we’ll launch on the beautiful Homosassa River, abundant with birds, fish, turtles, and bordered by palm, cypress and oak trees. You'll be greeted by your friendly guides, given paddleboard instruction if needed, and outfitted with quality paddleboard gear. The site has nice restrooms and an easy, carpeted launch.
Once ready, we'll paddle upriver where the water gets clearer and clearer approaching the headwaters of Homosassa Springs. Here, we'll take plenty of time hanging out where curious manatees congregate for up-close and personal encounters! These gentle giants can be infatuated with paddleboards and often come over to say hello - surfacing to look at us, nosing the boards - what a special and memorable experience to connect with this protected marine mammal! We often see adorable small calves accompanied by their big mamas, as well as active males.
For those that don't mind 72 degree water, bring your snorkel gear (mask, snorkel and wetsuit if needed), to soak in the mineral-rich spring water and see the wonders of the underwater world, coming face to face with manatees from beneath the surface! And if you don't want to completely submerge, bring your dive mask to peer over the side of your board and snorkel while staying dry!
We'll explore all the nooks and crannies in this area, including some narrow tributaries with mesmerizing turquoise water, and spots where sting rays (or "spring rays" as I like to call them), cormorants, and river otters like to play. Then we'll make our way downriver, paddling alongside manatees, osprey, and pelicans, saying good bye for now until we make landfall at the launch site, with our souls full.
This will conclude our tour, but for those who've worked up an appetite, Margueritas Restaurant is located on the river directly across from the launch site with a beautiful view for dining and filling your belly.
What's Included:
- All Stand Up Paddleboard Gear (quality and fitted to you, seated option available - please request)
- 3 hour Guided Manatee Eco Tour with experienced and certified guides/instructors
- Launch fees ($10 value)
- SUP Instruction
- Tour Photos
- Inclusive Paddle Tribe
Other Ticket Options Include:
- BYOBoard/Paddle Craft for a discount. All paddlecraft are welcome.
Paddle Skill Level: All Levels. Instruction provided for beginners. Must know how to swim. Kids 12 and under may ride along for free with an experienced adult.
Bring: Water, towel, dry bag, snacks/beverages, dry change of clothes, snorkel gear (dive mask/snorkel/wetsuit if needed). If you're bringing your own paddle craft, a life vest and whistle are required by law.
Wear: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (with straps), apparel that is easy to move in and can get wet (like dry wicking workout clothes or swimwear). If the air is cold, wear layers: a beanie, gloves, and scarf will keep the heat in. Try neoprene water shoes for your feet - we also have a great technique to get you on and off your board without dipping your feet in the water :)
Parking: Turn into River Adventure Tours, also marked Freedom Boat Club, and parking will be on the left, before the kayak shed.
Meet: At the picnic table near the kayak launch just past the parking lot and to the left of the boat ramp. Do not check in at the kayak shed as we do this for you.
Guide: Jessica Cichra is a SUP enthusiast that has been actively paddle touring, racing, surfing, and instructing since 2009. She is the founder of Wave of Wellness, a company with a mission to empower clients through adventurous activities that enhance all areas of well-being with a focus on travel, SUP, yoga, and community. Jessica guides paddle tours in Central Florida and internationally on adventure travel retreats.
Tips are highly appreciated if you believe your instruction, service, and experience to be exceptional!
IMPORTANT: In the event of inclement weather, you will be notified via Eventbrite email at least 3 hours prior to start time of a reschedule. Check your inbox before traveling to the launch site. We only reschedule so your experience will be safe and enjoyable.
If you can't make the tour the day of, please text Jessica at 850-445-8348 so we don't wait for you.
*Because we can’t control nature, manatee encounters are not guaranteed. This is definitely a place they frequent and if we’re lucky we will paddle and swim with them!
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
River Adventure Tours, 10269 West Halls River Road, Homosassa, United States
USD 54.13 to USD 70.14
