If you’ re wondering which company to go with and reading this review as a way of deciding which of the 37 companies to choose from to see the amazing gentle giants of the sea, then I can only say you won’t be disappointed choosing this one. This is a company owned and run by Captain Ron and supported by Lauren. The personal connection and ownership of their company meant they really cared about us as customers and also about the manatees and the environment.
We decided to go on the 6.30 am trip on Sept 23rd and was really worth the 4.30 am wake up call (ouch) and drive. We were the only 2 on the boat as it was out of season, so had a very personal trip. Arriving early meant we were out on the water by 6.30 and saw the sunrise. Coffee and hot chocolate were provided for us as well as towels. We got to swim with. 2 huge female manatees for a good 20 minutes in really clear water accompanied by Lauren taking photos and videos. These are worth buying on a usb stick for $30 as it’s a lovely record of all you’ve seen and experienced.
Ron then took us to Crystal spring which is so beautifully clear. We were not expecting to see any manatees here but were joined by a mother with her calf. He was really inquisitive and came up and kissed me, rolled over under me showing me his belly and was a pure joy to swim with. A truly magical experience.
Lauren is a lovely, friendly, engaging young woman who was really interested in us and so enthusiastic about manatees, she knows her stuff ( but a dodgy driver!, sorry Dan made me put that bit in Lauren!!). Ron was determined to make our trip the very best it could be even squeezing his boat under a bridge with only an inch to spare as the tide came in, just to be able to show us the Crystal spring.
Thank you both for making our final day in Florida so very special. Kind regards Mel and Danny.