Swim with Manatees

Completed February 20, 2022

Despite moving to Florida almost 20 (!!!) years ago I have never gone swimming with manatees. Which meant it had to go on the list! I had coolest time with my brother Kyle! We made the one hour trek to Crystal River, suited up, and the Seadaddies (lol) took us out to hang out with some giant underwater potatoes.

My absolute favorite moment was when a manatee locked eyes with me and swam straight in my direction until it almost touched me. I stayed floating and very still while it did its thing. The guide told me right after that it was the first time he's seen one do that (and he clarified he was not bullshitting).

Underwater pictures were taken by our guide since I chose to experience rather than photograph. But wow, that was incredible!!