Back to Nature - Swimming with the Manatees

Having previously swum with dolphins and enjoyed the thrill of the airboat ride to see the wild life of the Everglades up close and personal, we decided to do something different on this last visit and go swimming with some of the most relaxed and peaceful mammals on this planet...the Manatee...or as they are sometimes called...the Sea Cow.  The photo below is one that I took using a waterproof camera which you can hire for $20 from the organisors (just take your own SD card to save the images on, it also shoots video) and gives you an idea of how close you get to the wonderful creatures.

We booked this as a day trip with Snorkel with Manatees: located in Crystal River, around a 70-90 minute drive from 'Magic Dreams' depending on the traffic.  The organisors provide you with a wet suit, snorkel and mask so all you need to bring is a towel and change of clothes for after.  The trip itself lasts for approx 3 hours and each boat is made up of small parties (6 on ours) so you get plenty of space onboard and personal attention from the Captain (ours was Captain Tom).

In addition to the manatees we were also lucky enough to get followed by a dolphin, leaping in and out of the wake from the boats propellor.  We visited several locations and had plenty of time in the water (no one makes you hurry), in our 2nd location we found 3 that were sleeping, including 1 huge one that must have been close to 4-metres long.

Our playful Dolphin

The manatee is very gentle and naturally curious and the way in which they come up close to you is for you to simply float, very still and with no sudden movements or swimming motions.  They will then just swim right up to you and take a look...they are completely unfazed by your presence.

This is a natural experience within an outdoor tropical environment so be prepared with sunscreen, comfortable clothing and a supply of bug spray (you will get mosquito bites when on and around the river).  The organisors did have plenty of insect repellent on the boat but we'd recommend taking your own and being protected as you arrive.  All in all a totally different experience and great day out...one that we would highly recommend.