Imagine: crystal-clear water, mild winter sun and suddenly a peaceful, curious creature glides right past you – a manatee. This is exactly what I experienced in Crystal River. In the winter months, hundreds of these fascinating animals gather here at the warm springs – a nature experience that touched me deeply.
The Caribbean manatee(Trichechus manatus) lives along the coasts from Brazil to the Gulf of Mexico. It feeds exclusively on aquatic plants – and seems so leisurely, so friendly, that you simply have to take it to your heart. I have never met an animal that is so gently curious.
The famous Three Sisters Springs and Kings Springs are located around the small town of Crystal River, in the middle of a built-up area. Warm springs rise up here in winter – a natural wellness oasis for the manatees. And typical of the USA: the animals are strictly protected, counted, weighed and researched. Volunteers ensure that visitors adhere to the rules. Rest areas are clearly marked – but snorkeling is permitted outside these zones. And if you’re lucky, you might get up close and personal with a manatee.
Photographer’s dream under water
For nature photographers like me, this is a paradise. The water is so clear that you almost forget you’re under the surface. I had my Sony A6000 with the Seafrog Salted Line housing and 6-inch dome port with me – even without a flash (which is forbidden, by the way) I managed to take fantastic pictures.
Two tour providers that I can highly recommend are:
- Bird’s Underwater – early in the morning, take the boat directly to the springs for sunrise. If you are the first in the water, you will experience the manatees in absolute tranquillity.
- Blue Heaven River Tours – Captain Wyn offers tours with a heated boat in Homosassa. Although the water there is not quite as clear as in Crystal River, the animals there were particularly trusting – they approached us of their own accord, sought us out and even let us cuddle them.
An experience for the heart
My most important tip is to be patient. If a manatee likes you, it will often stay with you for hours. Some animals visibly enjoy the careful touch of human hands. It almost feels like you’re hovering with an old friend.
So if you are ever in Florida – or are planning a trip – be sure to visit the manatees. It’s a unique, deeply moving experience that you won’t soon forget.
