Manatees!

One of the most exciting wildlife sightings we have on a tour is a manatee encounter. And we have been very fortunate to have recently had an increase of manatee activity, even close encounters!

Often called "sea cows," manatees are gentle, curious animals that spend their days grazing on seagrass and other aquatic vegetation. Despite their large size, they're incredibly peaceful creatures and are a favorite among both locals and visitors.

While we can't guarantee wildlife sightings on any tour, we are fortunate to paddle in areas where manatees are known to frequent. Every once in a while, one will surprise us by surfacing nearby for a breath of air or slowly gliding beneath our kayaks. Those moments never get old.

As exciting as these encounters are, it's important to remember that manatees are a protected species. Florida manatees are protected under both state and federal laws, making it illegal to harass, chase, touch, feed, or otherwise disturb them in the wild.

When we encounter a manatee on a tour, our goal is simple: observe and appreciate. We always give them space and allow them to decide how close they want to be. If a manatee chooses to swim near us, we remain calm and enjoy the experience without attempting to interact with it.

Many people are surprised to learn that most scars seen on manatees come from boat strikes. Because manatees spend much of their time near the surface and move relatively slowly, they are particularly vulnerable to collisions with watercraft. This is one of the many reasons why protecting their habitat and respecting slow-speed zones is so important.

Seeing a manatee in its natural environment is a reminder of just how special our waterways truly are. These gentle giants play an important role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems and are an iconic part of Florida.

We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate every time we encounter one on a tour. Whether it's a quick glimpse in the distance or a memorable moment as one surfaces nearby, manatee sightings are experiences our guests often remember long after their paddle has ended.

If you're lucky enough to spot a manatee on one of our tours, enjoy the moment, take plenty of photos, and remember that the best way to protect these amazing animals is to admire them from a respectful distance.