When is the best time to swim with manatees?

In Florida, we are lucky to have some of the best waters in the world for swimming with manatees!

Why Do Manatees Like Florida?

Despite their large size, manatees have very little body fat. Having body fat is how many marine (and land) mammals keep warm and regulate their body temperature. Coupled with their slow metabolic rates, this lack of body fat means that manatees cannot stay warm and healthy if the water is too cold (below 68 degrees). 

Because of this, manatees migrate seasonally to avoid the cold. Manatee populations can be spotted in the tropical waters of Belize, Mexico, Jamaica, and Brazil. Their range of migration stretches across most of the Caribbean. 

In the United States, they are known to move south along the East coast, from South Carolina to Florida, and in the warmer waters of the West coast of Florida.

Where In Florida Can I See The Manatees?

The constant flow of warm water into Florida’s Crystal River is a haven for these manatees to escape the colder Gulf waters. These springs have a consistent year-round temperature of 75 degrees, making them perfect for manatees. You can find as many as 800 manatees at a time in Crystal River!

Manatees can also be spotted at Homosassa Springs, Blue Spring State Park, Lovers Key, and Merritt Island. Be sure to pay attention to posted signs and warnings as these are protected habitats for migrating manatees.

Where Can I Swim With Manatees?

Of course, seeing these majestic creatures lounge around and munch on seagrass can be very entertaining. But, what’s even better than seeing live manatees? Swimming with them!

Crystal River and Kings Bay are the only places in the United States where you can legally swim with manatees. Swimming close to, touching, or chasing the animals is forbidden in other areas of Florida. It is punishable under Florida’s Manatee Sanctuary Act.

When Is The Best Time To Swim With Manatees?

The best time to spot and swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida, is from mid-November to late March. During these winter months, you have the opportunity to learn about these amazing animals and enjoy swimming next to them. 

Manatees are very docile creatures, so be careful not to startle or scare these gentle giants. Furthermore, manatees are easily spooked and more likely to socialize with you if you are calm and relaxed.

There are many adventure guides that can help locate manatees and shops that can outfit you for your swim. Manatee Swim Center is among the best. Their Captains and Guides are manatee experts and will give you a fantastic manatee experience while ensuring the safety of the animals and their guests. 

When booking your appointment for these excursions, keep in mind that manatees are usually more active in the morning hours. Approaching them in the morning helps to ensure that they have not been spooked by early visitors.

For more information about swimming with manatees, visit the Manatee Swim Center website and plan your next adventure today!