The main goal of this program was to snorkel with the manatees. In the wintertime, manatees are attracted to the springs by the constant temperature of 72 degrees, pleasant for both them and the snorkelers. Although there are strict guidelines for the protection of these endangered animals, snorkeling is probably the most benign interaction between humans and manatees, and contact is sometimes even encouraged by these friendly mammals.
Manatees are also snorkelers and have to come up to the surface every few minutes to breath.
Entire manatee families move into the crystal clear spring waters. Below is and adult, with an algae covered back. Especially the calfs are really curious and enjoy a little scratching on those hard to reach places. Fish, Turtles, and even Cormorants can be seen in and on the water of the Rainbow river. A drift snorkeler on the move giving the ok-sign.