Plantation Adventure Center and Manatee Tours

3 Best Day Trips from Orlando, Florida | Condé Nast Traveler

"Coast Guard certified captains lead private tours for up to six people from the marina at the resort, Plantation on Crystal River. They take you on a rolling ride through the mangroves out into the grassy flats in the Gulf of Mexico, where the scallops can be gathered in season from July 1 through September 24. All gear is provided (mask, snorkel and fins). This is a true ocean to plate experience—you forage, watch someone clean your catch (you can even help), and then eat it within hours. The scallops are beautiful to look at with iridescent blue eyes lining the rims of their shells. It's amazing to see them snap open and shut once they're in the bucket, too. Who knew a shellfish could be so energetic?" - Terry Ward, Laura Ratliff