Event Details

Travel to the world-renowned Crystal River, FL with Gainesville BBYO for the experience of a lifetime: swimming with the manatees in the spring-fed King's Bay Wildlife Refuge! 

Crystal River is home to the world’s largest population of endangered manatee during the winter season. Encountering these curious, gentle giants in their natural habitat is an adventure that you will never forget! 

What to expect:

The group will meet at 8:30 AM to load the bus to Crystal River. The private tour with River Ventures will run for three hours beginning at 10:15 AM. The day will begin with an educational session with our guides to learn about manatees and prepare for the tour. We will then suit up and head to the dock, where a Coast Guard certified covered pontoon will be waiting for us. This rich estuary will be amazing to explore, and after our tour, we will join together as a group for lunch to reflect on how the Jewish values of Tikkun Olam relate to protecting these beautiful animals and our natural environment. 

Details:

• Open to all 8th-12th graders

• Pack a swimsuit, towel, and extra set of clothes

• Masks, snorkels, and wetsuits included

• In-water tour guide and photographer 

• Bottled water included onboard

• Lunch will be provided after the tour before the return trip to Gainesville

The price is inclusive of transportation, the private Manatee tour, and lunch.