On our way to Orlando, we are staying a couple of nights in Crystal River and swimming with the manatees in Crystal River/Homassassa Springs area. I need recommendations for dive companies or ones to avoid. We would like to spend extra and do a private tour, if possible. It has been over 20 years since I have been, so I don't know what to expect. :confused:
Last I heard, it is illegal to swim with/interact with manatees in FL. They can come to you, but you aren't supposed to reach out to them.
Yeah, swim but not touch. I don't care much for swimming in gator water though.. :)
Yes, the guides simply know where to take you so you can get in water and snorkel on top to observe the manatees swimming nearby. In the winter months, the manatees seek the warm, spring-fed waters north of Tampa. They have had these amazing eco-tours for decades and really push to educate the public on preservation and protection.Quote:
Originally Posted by texas211
Trust me, I am not looking to harm or break laws. I just think it is an amazing experience I did as a teen, now I want my 15 year old to experience also.
I'm not judging about the manatee thing, other than swimming in gator infested waters.. Plus the snakes, aggressive fish species.
Some of us Floridians are a wild, crazy, adventurous group. I grew up swimming in those water because my grandfather lived in that area. I remember often swimming on one side of the river bank while gators crested on the other. Thinking back on those memories freaks me out now, as an adult and a Mom. I also recall boating along Crystal River and seeing the manatees casually eating below our boat. My grandfather was a private, commercial fisherman and he knew where all the good spots were.
Crazy or not, I'm glad to have those memories and it'll be a neat experience for you to share this with your daughter. :)
Oh I think that's great, and sounds like a lot of fun... But you were in a boat :) Not in the water, with a gator behind you.Quote:
Originally Posted by magicofdisney
We've been all through Florida. Love it. Love Texas more. But really enjoy the outdoors in Fla.