Adult Florida Exploration Program

Dates: February 12-16, 2026

Open to: Adults 18 years and up

What will we do?   Citrus County and the Crystal River have become synonymous with manatees, and we will explore their winter homes along with other natural environments in the area.  Sea Star Explorations and the host facility will provide transportation for all off-site visits (including boats and buses), breakfasts and dinners as well as transportation to and from the Orlando airport.  Some of everyday will be spent in the water and gear will be provided (snorkel, mask, fins, wetsuit). Besides snorkeling with the manatees in the Crystal River twice, you’ll also snorkel in the Devil’s Den and down the Rainbow River to learn about the cenotes and amazing springs of Florida first hand. Participants will pay for their own lunch, souvenirs, and hotels and food prior to or following the program dates. One night at a hotel in Orlando will be provided the night of March 15 and participants may either leave that night or the morning of March 16. Those going to Discovery Cove will leave the morning of March 16 and return to the airport later in the afternoon.

We’ll tour the 3 Sister’s State Park, the Ellie Schiller Wildlife Park and Crystal River Archaeological Park.  We will be staying at the Plantation Inn Golf Resort on the Crystal River. Here guests will find a full-service resort with classic rooms, excellent dining, a lagoon-style pool, an Aveda spa, and a world-class, traditional golf course. Evenings can be spent in the hotel lounge, the pool/hot tub or listening to a talk about the local ecology. Participants may choose to extend their stay for an additional fee for one day to visit Discovery Cove in Orlando, guided by our staff. This is an all inclusive day of snorkeling with all gear and food provided.