Please avoid harassing or disturbing manatees. Harassment is defined as any activity which alters the animal's natural behavior. By altering the manatee's natural behavior, you may create the likelihood of danger that is bad for the animal, and against the law. Also, don't feed manatees or give them water. If manatees become accustomed to being around people, they can alter their behavior in the wild, perhaps causing them to lose their natural fear of boats and humans, and this may make them more susceptible to harm.
Passive observation is the best way to interact with manatees and all wildlife.
Do not pursue or chase a manatee while you are swimming, snorkeling, diving, or operating a boat. Never poke, prod, or stab a manatee with your hands, feet, or any object. If a manatee avoids you, you should avoid it. Don't isolate or single out an individual manatee from its group, and don't separate a cow from her calf. Don't attempt to snag, hook, grab, hold, pinch, or ride a manatee.