My husband and I took the December 15, 7 a.m. group manatee tour with Captains John and Mike. This was our second manatees trip with the Plantation Adventure Center. We enjoyed our trip so much last year we had to do it again. And, we knew we would receive the best equipment and best guides with Plantation Adventures. On arrival to the Adventure Center we were quickly checked in and given a wet suit. These wetsuits are thicker than those used by the other companies. With the temperature in the 50s when we went out, the extra insulation was appreciated for warmth, and even more so in the water as they added to our buoyancy making it easy to float and fully enjoy the manatees. Prior to leaving the dock we viewed a short video that explained the rules for snorkeling with these gentle giants, and then Mike took us on the short boat ride to our viewing spot. Just before entering the water we were treated to two dolphins playing near our boat, and a flyover by a bald eagle. After receiving instructions from John who served as our guide and manatee expert, we entered the water. Due to the air temperature and our wetsuits, the water felt amazingly warm. One of the five in our group was new to snorkeling and very hesitant about entering the water. John very calmly and kindly talked her through moving down the steps and held her hand until she was relaxed. She ended up loving the whole experience. Our group spent the next two hours completely enthralled. As we lucked into one of the colder mornings of the month, the manatees were everywhere. They are curious creatures who seemed as interested in us as we in them. John knew where to go for the best opportunities for interaction and also made certain to get great photos of each of us with his Go Pro camera. What a special experience to have a manatee “kiss” your face, hold your arm or leg with its fins, or just “snuggle” against you for warmth. The time went by much too quickly. After our swim, Captain MIke greeted us with coffee and hot chocolate. After returning to the dock, we removed our wet suits (there were showers available for those not staying at the resort) and got to view the videos and photos that John had taken. I know there is a third manatee swim in my future!
Date of experience: December 2020