CRYSTAL RIVER, FLA.—Just in time for peak manatee season (through March 31), Paddletail Waterfront Lodge, A Trademark Collection by Wyndham, is rolling out an all-new Manatee & Water Sports Package and unveiling its newly opened Paddletail Waterfront Adventures Dive Shop. Offering the largest selection of in-house tour amenities in Crystal River, the lodge now gives travelers a streamlined way to explore the “Manatee Capital of the World” with a single, activity-packed stay.
The new package puts guests in the water for a guided manatee snorkel with expert local captains, then keeps the adventure going with a scenic boat tour and a half-day kayak rental. Pricing begins at $555 for two guests and includes: two nights at Paddletail Waterfront Lodge, guided manatee snorkel tour with wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins; scenic boat tour, and half-day kayak rental.
All tours depart from the lodge’s waterfront dock, steps from the guestrooms. Enclosed boats offer complimentary hot chocolate and coffee and towel service. Every vessel is operated by a licensed, insured, US Coast Guard-certified captain and equipped with power poles to reduce environmental impact.
After their swim, guests can warm up and reset at the new dive shop featuring hot showers, spacious private changing rooms, and professional photo and video services.
Crystal River’s spring-fed waters remain a consistent 72 degrees throughout winter, drawing hundreds of West Indian manatees seeking warmer refuge. Although manatees can be spotted year-round, November through March remains the most reliable viewing window. Tours prioritize conservation education and teach participants how to respectfully interact with manatees in a protected habitat.
Go to PaddletailLodge.com.
