We recently made a trip to Florida during the winter and I knew this was my opportunity to check off a major bucket list item! Manatees are my favorite animals and I wanted to see them more than anything. Fortunately, it was PERFECT timing and we were able to book a morning tour with River Ventures.
MY SPIRIT ANIMAL
When my sisters and I were little, our great grandparents sent us this book and our mom read it to us frequently. I have wanted to meet some of these sweethearts since this childhood book came into my life.
We lucked out being paired with Guide Marissa and Captain Emerson – they were excellent! Marissa listened to our fears and addressed all of our concerns. She fitted us for our wet suits and prepared our boat for after the tour treats. She explained the whole process and truly was guiding us throughout the tour. She explained and identified aspects of the manatees and their behavior.
This was our first time snorkeling and Marissa was extremely helpful guiding us through that. She also prepared us for what to expect when we hit the water.
My mom was in first and was beginning to become overwhelmed by the chill – she walked us through a breathing exercise and got us acclimated to our surroundings quickly.
This sweet baby girl greeted us straight off the boat. She was a silly gal and was very interested in playing with the rope attached to the boat. Our guide told us that she likely thought it was seaweed or something similar to that. This pretty girl gave my mom a kiss toward the beginning of our tour!! It was so awesome.
A DREAM COME TRUE
I was very intimidated and so excited all at the same time – this moment was a dream for me! A young male came up to me and my mom. He rolled over into us, hoping we would rub his belly (HOW CUTE)
Our guide strongly discouraged touching the manatees. The goal is to keep them wild and not get them used to or expecting tourists to pet them or rub their bellies. We were told that we could do one open-handed touch, but only if she gave us the go ahead. We did not even need to try to touch the manatees as they came to us on numerous occasions!
PERFECT WEATHER
The weather was gorgeous and we lucked out with the sunshine. The rest of the week was gloomy and chilly – it was fate <3
The water was CRYSTAL (hehe) clear and the sunshine warmed our backs as we floated.
One of the best parts? After coming out of the cold water, in the chilly air, freezing and full of adrenaline… Marissa introduced us to “wetsuit water” – something I had no clue about, but will cherish forever. She poured hot water (think hot tub hot) into our wetsuits to warm our bodies! Genius. It was so nice to feel warm and made the ride back much more comfortable.
She then served us hot chocolate to enjoy our ride back to the dock, ending the tour and wrapping up the incredible experience.
I came back home and told my husband that we will now be returning every year to enjoy the tour again and again!!
Add Comment