Explore the warm freshwaters near the Gulf coast of Florida and discover the aquatic life of this beautiful region. Daily excursions along the area's rivers offer ample opportunity for participants to snorkel with the imperiled but gentle manatee, and to share the waters with such wildlife as turtles, gars, perch, and pickerel. The snorkeling venues are safe, shallow, predictable, and controlled. Joel Simon , popular study leader on trips to Bonaire and St. John's, V.I., is a biologist and photographer. He provides snorkeling instruction and lectures throughout the program.
Accommodations are at the Best Western Crystal River .
Saturday, November 3 - Tampa Individual arrivals at the Tampa airport by 2 p.m. for transfers to the Florida Aquarium. Continue to the hotel for a welcome reception and dinner. An orientation this morning introduces freshwater snorkeling and manatee etiquette. Equipment and wetsuit rentals are available before practicing snorkeling in the hotel swimming pool. This afternoon, visit Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park to see its captive manatees, birds, alligators, and other wildlife.