Each winter Florida’s manatees seek the warm waters of springs and power plant discharges. One such location is Crystal River on the northwestern coast of Florida. Just two hours from Orlando, it’s a perfect weekend trip for locals and tourists alike. Without a doubt, it’s worth the drive.
Manatees are large aquatic mammals with a gentle nature, but at first, it can be intimidating to think about swimming with them due to their size. The average adult weighs 800 to 1000 pounds.
Crystal River has numerous manatee tour providers from which to choose. During my visit we used American Pro Diving Center because they had run a Groupon promotion which included all of our wetsuits and snorkel gear.
Every tour operator requires guests to watch an orientation video on safely interacting with the manatee. This is for the manatee’s protection. It also lays out the threats facing the endangered manatee and what measures people can take to protect them while boating, fishing or swimming.
Guests then board a pontoon boat for the short ride to one of Crystal River’s many springs. One of the most popular is Three Sisters. Our tour visited Jurassic Spring and I appreciated the thin crowd but was disappointed with the water clarity. I later learned that the tides affect the water clarity so I suggest asking you tour provider when the best times are for clear water at the springs before scheduling.
As you enter the water, expect a jolt of cold. Don’t worry, the wetsuit will soon do its job and you will feel comfortable. As you draw near the first manatee, first you’ll notice their size, then their gracefulness. Some will simply swim by, but others will approach you and want a rub on the back and belly, even rolling over to show you right where it feels good. The important part is to let the manatee lead by stopping a few feet away then allowing them to come to you if they want to. Additionally, guidelines require that you touch them with only one hand.
During my swim a female baby really seemed to like me and at one point looked me right in the eye as she nuzzled the nose of my mask. I’ll never forget our remarkable connection.
An hour in the water will be more than enough due to the cold. Luckily, many guides serve cups of hot cocoa to guests on returning to the boat. Plastic curtains line the sides of the boats to cut the wind-chill, but it’s still cool. That said it’s absolutely worth getting chilly for such a special experience. Just pack a large towel and maybe even a blanket.
Often tours involving animals attract criticism. I’m not an expert, but I got the impression that all of the people on our boat left with a deeper concern for this endangered species and likely will support efforts to protect them. I know a boarded the boat a tourist but disembarked an advocate.
To learn how you can help the plight of the endangered manatee visit: Florida Manatee Program. For more information on the manatees in Crystal River read: Florida’s Big Bend Wildlife Refuges
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