Basically, let them come to you. You're allowed to pet them with one open hand, if they approach you. You can't swim down to them and you can't get between a mother and her calf. There's a mandatory orientation video. The boats are enclosed and have a changing room.
Rental equipment is available.
Once manatees are spotted, the boat approaches slowly and the captain enters the water. Others are then invited to approach - gingerly. We also shoot video every day, if customers want to buy a copy. Federal wildlife officials say folks who take such ecotours are usually well-behaved. A few people get carried away, since it can be a pretty awesome experience.