Embracing Sustainable Tourism: Our Commitment to Protect Manatees and the Environment

Introduction:

At Nature’s Discovery, we wholeheartedly believe that sustainable tourism is the way forward when it comes to protecting our precious natural surroundings and the magnificent inhabitants that call them home. One such beloved creature is the gentle and awe-inspiring manatee. Crystal River, Florida is blessed to be able to be the home of manatee snorkeling tours. As responsible stewards of the environment and daily manatee snorkeling tour guides, we are deeply committed to ensuring the longevity and conservation of these incredible beings. In this blog post, we are delighted to share with you the various measures we take to promote sustainable tourism and protect manatees for future generations to enjoy.

a bird swimming in water

Close encounters with manatees are always special and should never be taken lightly

  1. Informative and Responsible Guided Tours:

We understand the importance of providing our guests with accurate and up-to-date information about manatees, their habitats, and the challenges they face. Our knowledgeable guides are well-trained to educate visitors about the fragile ecosystem in which manatees thrive, emphasizing the significance of protecting it. By instilling a sense of responsibility and respect within our guests, we aim to cultivate a community of informed individuals who actively contribute towards the conservation of manatees. We lead educational and adventurous swims with manatees.

animal on the water

Boater need to look out for manatees and ensure that they steer clear of shallow water grassbeds

  1. Ecologically-Friendly Boat Operations:

Recognizing that our boats can have an impact on manatees and their environment, we have taken several significant steps to minimize our ecological footprint. To prevent any potential harm to these gentle giants, we strictly follow designated waterways and maintain a respectful distance during the tour. Our boats are equipped with up-to-date engine technologies that emit minimal noise, ensuring a non-intrusive experience while reducing noise pollution. With the abundant aquatic vegetation throughout Crystal River, our Captains pay close attention to the tide and daily conditions to ensure that we navigate safely without impacting the eel grass beds.

Duration
5 hours
Group Size
Up to 6

Private Scalloping Adventure

Join Nature's Discovery for an exciting scalloping adventure in the beautiful waters of Crystal River. Our charters offer a unique opportunity to explore the Gulf Coast and participate in the popular pastime of scalloping. Whether you're a seasoned scalloper or a first-time visitor, our charters promise an unforgettable experience that combines fun with education on sustainable seafood practices.

Duration
1 hour 30 minutes
Group Size
Up to 20

4:30pm Crystal River Eco Tour

Embark on a relaxing evening cruise throughout the headwaters of Crystal River with our 4:30pm Eco Tour. Led by our USCG-certified Master Captains, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Florida's Nature Coast. Search for the incredible wild manatees in King’s Bay, and other local wildlife such as turtles dolphins birds that dive and fish that fly while learning about the local ecosystem and the charming historic town of Crystal River.

Duration
Group Size
no limit

Gift Card

Give your loved ones the gift of a lifetime with our Nature's Discovery Gift Card. Perfect for any occasion, our gift cards are easily transferable and redeemable at any available tour time for an all-inclusive experience. Whether it's a manatee excursion or an adventure on King's Bay, this gift card offers endless possibilities for unforgettable experiences.

Duration
1 hour 30 minutes
Group Size
Up to 6

Private Crystal River Eco Tours

Experience the beauty of Crystal River with our Private Eco Tours. Led by our USCG-certified Master Captains, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the headwaters of Crystal River in a private setting. Perfect for families and small groups, you'll have the chance to see incredible wildlife, including the majestic manatees, while learning about the local ecosystem.