Peak manatee season runs Nov. 15 through March 31 and Paddletail Waterfront Lodge, A Trademark Collection by Wyndham, is ready with their Manatee & Water Sports Package. Offering the largest selection of in-house tour amenities in Crystal River, the lodge gives travelers a streamlined way to explore the “Manatee Capital of the World” with a single, activity-packed stay.
The package puts guests in the water with Paddletail Waterfront Adventures 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 just $555 for two guests* and includes:
- Two nights at Paddletail Waterfront Lodge
- Guided manatee snorkel tour with wetsuit, mask and snorkel
- Scenic boat tour
- Half-day kayak rental
All tours depart from the lodge’s waterfront dock, steps from the guest rooms. 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 a licensed and insured dive master and is equipped with power poles to reduce environmental impact.
After their swim, guests can warm up and reset at Crystal River’s newest and largest dive shop featuring hot showers, spacious private changing rooms, and professional photo and video services. The extensive facilities are especially convenient for travelers arriving early or departing later in the day.
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.
For reservations or details on the Manatee and Water Sports Package, visit PaddletailLodge.com or call (866) 930-8730.
*Pricing based on two-night, midweek stays for two guests. Weekend and additional guest pricing available. Subject to availability. Taxes and gratuities not included.
- Paddletail Waterfront Lodge -
About Paddletail Waterfront Lodge
Named for large, paddle-shaped tails of the beloved manatees that often glide past its docks, Paddletail Waterfront Lodge, A Trademark Collection by Wyndham, offers a one-of-a-kind “stay & play” experience in the heart of Crystal River, Florida. Nestled directly on the spring-fed waters of King’s Bay, the lodge is a gateway to the Gulf and is surrounded by some of Florida’s most unspoiled natural beauty, scenic rivers, state parks, and protected wildlife refuges. Guests can immerse themselves in the area’s signature adventures – swimming with manatees, scalloping in the Gulf, fishing with local guides, or cruising the bay on a rented pontoon. On property, Paddletail features inviting waterfront accommodations, a full-service dive and tour marina, casual dining and cocktails, complimentary hot breakfast, and a waterfront pool perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The lodge also offers flexible meeting and event space for intimate gatherings, retreats, and celebrations. Whether chasing outdoor thrills or seeking serene sunsets, guests find Paddletail Waterfront Lodge is the perfect launchpad for an authentic Florida adventure. PaddletailLodge.com