Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter General Admission

Explore the Unique Aquarium Experience with a Mermaid Show in Florida

The Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter in Lecanto, Florida, provides a captivating, family-friendly marine adventure for $18.55 per person. With an approximate duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes, this tour combines interactive exhibits, engaging performances, and shopping opportunities. Its small size makes it suitable for those seeking an intimate experience close to nature and mermaid magic, though it might feel compact for visitors expecting a large-scale attraction. The tour features over 20 exhibits, including touch tanks, a mermaid show, and a spectacular 18,000-gallon Caribbean Saltwater Aquarium.

This experience is ideal for families and marine life enthusiasts who enjoy hands-on activities and live entertainment. Its affordable price point and private tour format ensure a personalized visit. However, travelers should note that some reviews mention the mermaid performance as somewhat outdated, though the overall impression remains positive. We find this tour offers a charming, accessible way to explore marine life and enjoy mermaid-themed fun.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $18.55 per person includes access to over 20 exhibits and a mermaid show.
• Duration is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with structured stops for exploration and entertainment.
• Interactive touch tanks allow guests to pet and feed stingrays, seastars, and other marine creatures.
• The mermaid performance features real mermaids swimming to music, storytelling, and graceful moves.
• The tour begins at 4100 W Gulf to Lake Hwy, Lecanto, FL, and is a private activity for your group.
• Most participants can enjoy this, with service animals permitted and near public transportation options.

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Lecanto, Florida

The tour starts at 4100 W Gulf to Lake Hwy, Lecanto, Florida, making it convenient for local visitors or those staying nearby. The approximate total time of 1 hour and 30 minutes includes exploring exhibits, participating in touch pools, and watching the mermaid show. The duration makes it a manageable activity, especially for families with children or anyone looking for a shorter, engaging aquatic experience.

Exploring the Tropical Rain Forest and Marine Exhibits

Upon entering, visitors are transported into a tropical rain forest environment, home to rescued macaws and parrots. This lush setting transitions seamlessly into the Bay area, where the marine exhibits begin. The over 20 exhibits include sea stars, seahorses, and freshwater creatures from local springs, giving a broad view of different ecosystems.

Guests can enjoy clear viewing windows that allow close-up looks at vibrant tropical fish and marine life. The diverse displays aim to educate and fascinate, all in a compact space that emphasizes quality over quantity.

The Interactive Touch Pools: Pet and Feed Marine Life

Two touch tanks provide the highlight of tactile interaction. The Ray Bay, affectionately called that for its friendly stingrays, invites visitors to touch or feed these graceful creatures. The other touch pool features sea stars, urchins, snails, and sharks—offering safe, supervised opportunities for hands-on engagement.

This part of the tour is praised for being fun and memorable, especially for children and those new to marine life. The supervised nature reassures participants, making it an accessible experience for all ages.

The Spectacular Mermaid Show and Underwater Performance

A 20-minute mermaid show is included in the itinerary, starring real-life mermaids performing choreographed routines in water. Visitors enjoy music, storytelling, and graceful swimming, although some reviews mention that the performance feels somewhat outdated. Still, the skill and mastery of the performers garner respect, and the show adds a whimsical element to the visit.

The mermaid act is choreographed to entertain and create a magical atmosphere, making it a highlight despite the minor critique of presentation style.

Shopping for Mermaid Memorabilia and Souvenirs

At the end of the experience, visitors can browse the gift shop filled with mermaid-themed souvenirs, small shells, and branded merchandise. It’s an ideal spot to pick up a keepsake of the day or get gifts for friends and family. Photos taken during the encounter are also available for purchase, allowing for a lasting memory of your aquatic adventure.

The Caribbean Saltwater Aquarium: A Visual Spectacle

The 18,000-gallon Caribbean Saltwater Aquarium is the tour’s centerpiece. It offers a stunning view of saltwater marine life, with the chance to see colorful fish, sharks, and other marine animals up close. The large, clear viewing windows provide an immersive experience, making it a perfect spot for photography and observing marine behavior.

Guests might even see a mermaid or two swimming in this expansive tank, adding to the magic of the encounter.

Practical Information: Group Size, Accessibility, and Cancellation Policy

This private tour ensures your group has an exclusive experience without crowds. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation options, making it accessible for visitors staying in or near Lecanto.

Booking includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for changing plans. For full refunds, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled time.

The Experience’s Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers many engaging elements, some reviews note that the venue is physically small, which may limit movement for larger groups. The mermaid show, while charming, could be considered somewhat outdated by modern standards. The hands-on touch tanks and close-up marine exhibits compensate by providing memorable, tactile experiences.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

The Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter is best suited for families with children, marine enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a short, interactive aquatic activity. The affordable price and personalized nature make it a valuable option for visitors in Florida wanting a hands-on, whimsical experience with marine life and mermaids.

The tour’s small size and engaging exhibits create an intimate setting, perfect for learning about marine ecosystems and enjoying a bit of mermaid magic. While it might not appeal to those seeking large aquariums or highly modern performances, it still delivers a charming, fun-filled outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including exploration, touch tanks, and the mermaid show.

What is included in the price?
For $18.55 per person, the ticket grants access to over 20 exhibits, touch pools, and the mermaid show. Shopping for souvenirs is available but not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and offers hands-on marine activities suitable for most ages.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the experience.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The tour begins at 4100 W Gulf to Lake Hwy, Lecanto, FL.

Is the mermaid show worth seeing?
While some find the performance somewhat outdated, it still provides entertainment and a magical atmosphere thanks to skilled performers.

What is the highlight of the tour?
The interactive touch pools and the 18,000-gallon Caribbean Saltwater Aquarium are the main attractions, offering memorable visuals and tactile experiences.

Is this tour physically demanding?
No, the tour is suitable for most participants, with no significant physical demands noted.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing for water activities, a camera, and a sense of curiosity will enhance your experience.

This review should help you decide whether the Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter matches your interests for a fun, engaging marine adventure in Florida.