Homosassa Manatee Paddle Tour
About this Event
From November to March, when the air temp is colder, manatees migrate to the warmer waters of Homosassa springs, making this a popular spot to view them in their natural habitat.
Our tour is longer than most giving ample time to connect with wildlife and nature. There is also an opportunity to snorkel with manatees and it is much less crowded than Crystal River. Tour photos always included!
Located just 1.5 hours west of Orlando, we’ll launch on the beautiful Homosassa River, abundant with birds, fish, and 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 ramp.
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 West Indian manatees congregate for up-close and personal encounters right from our paddleboards! These gentle giants can be very curious and often come over to say hello - surfacing to look at us and sometimes even nudging 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 ready to swim, bring your snorkel gear (mask, snorkel and wetsuit - the water is 72 degrees), to soak in the mineral-rich spring water, coming face to face with manatees from beneath the surface!
Not into swimming? If you don't want to completely submerge, bring just a dive mask to lay on your board and peer over the side to snorkel while staying dry!
We'll explore all the nooks and crannies in this area, including some narrow tributaries with mesmerizing turquoise water over white sand, and areas 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, pelicans, and tarpon, 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 knowledgeable guides (including stopping to hang/swim with manatees and eat snacks - we won't be paddling the entire time)
- Launch fees ($10 value)
- SUP Instruction with friendly, certified instructors
- Tour Photos (so you can be in the present moment)
- Inclusive Paddle Tribe (we welcome everyone!)
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 free with an experienced adult.
Bring: Water, towel, dry bag, snacks/picnic lunch/beverages, dry change of clothes, snorkel gear (dive mask/snorkel/wetsuit if preferred). BYOB participants need a life vest and whistle are required by law.
Wear: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, 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 :)
Time: Arrive at 9:30a to launch by 10a. If you're bringing your own gear, you may arrive as early as 9a to prepare.
Parking: Turn into River Adventure Tours / Freedom Boat Club; park on the left before the kayak shed.
Meet: At the picnic table near the kayak launch just past the parking lot/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 of rescheduling via Eventbrite email at least 3 hours prior to start time. 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. If the air temperature is cold, this is definitely a place they frequent. And if the air temp is warm, we often still see a few in the river.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 57.38 to USD 74.35
