Manatee Dives

American Pro Diving Center. This is one of several local operators in the area conducting manatee tours of Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge or Homosassa River, something you can't legally do pretty much anywhere else in the country. 821 S.E. U.S. 19, Crystal River, Florida, 34429. 352/563–0041; www.americanprodiving.com. $68.

Crystal Lodge Dive Center. This dive center is one of the more popular operators offering dives, swims, and snorkel trips to see manatees. 525 N.W. 7th Ave., Crystal River, Florida, 34428. 352/795–6798; www.manatee-central.com. $55.

Plantation Adventure Center. An obvious choice if you're staying at the Plantation on Crystal River, this dive tour company stands on its own as a manatee tour operator. The guides bring you out to various spots along the river to interact with manatees, and tend to be longtime residents who know their subject well. Day trips to nearby Rainbow River, scenic cruises, and sunset/sunrise kayak tours are also available. If the weather is warm, that means no manatees, so plan accordingly. Plantation on Crystal River, 9301 Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, Florida, 34429. 352/795–5797; www.plantationoncrystalriver.com. From $100.