Three species of manatee exist, and all are herbivores that feed on aquatic vegetation such as grasses and algae. They are fully aquatic, spending their entire lives in the water although they must surface to breathe. In the Americas, manatees inhabit coastal and river habitats on the east coast, from Florida down to Brazil. Two other species of manatees are found on the west coast of Africa and in the Amazon. Crystal River, Florida, is a well-known U.S. destination if you wish to swim with manatees.
Manatees are completely harmless to humans. They are intelligent and often inquisitive when they come across people in their habitat, but they are not aggressive and won't hurt you. Even a dolphin has the potential to cause more harm than a manatee. Humans have caused manatee habitat destruction and pollution, and boat collisions have all contributed to manatee decline. Swimming with manatees is a new kind of eco-tourism that can be helpful to both manatees and humans, if done in a responsible manner.
Swimming with manatees is an experience that often motivates participants to protect them. The money that manatee tourism brings in demonstrates the economic value of conserving the animals, but the sheer numbers of tourists along with a few people or boats who have been too aggressive with the animals are problematic. Manatees can be disturbed by a large volume of tourists all wanting to swim them. Responsible behavior from individuals and tour operators is necessary to make the experience positive for all concerned.
The primary conservation charity for manatees in Florida, Save the Manatee, does not, as of 2011, recommend any tour operators because although they are not against swimming with manatees, the charity is working to ensure that strict guidelines are enforced. However, you can gauge how responsible a company is by carefully reading its promotional material and customer reviews. Also, ask questions about what the company does to ensure the manatees aren't disturbed. A good tour operator advises visitors as to how they are to behave around manatees and typically conducts its tours in small groups. A bad company's aim is to get as many people into the water as it can and is inconsiderate of both the manatees and your experience.
Treat manatees with respect and let them approach you. You should never chase, prod or attempt to ride manatees, or let your children harass them. Manatees aren't aggressive, but this type of behavior is highly stressful for the animals. If your tour company allows such behavior or even encourages it, report them.
