Manatees are protected by law as an endangered species, protected under the Federal Endangered Species and Marine Mammal Protection Acts and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act. More important than the breaking of the law is that human interaction with manatees can cause them harm. Manatees can be observed from a distance. Do not enter any designated manatee sanctuary. Enjoy the natural behavior of these unique animals by remaining at a distance.
Thousands return year after year to enjoy boating, swimming, diving to observe the manatees.
The most popular is the Crystal River Basin of approximately 75 feet in diameter and a depth of about 28 feet. The Crystal River also offers a cavern that dips to a depth of approximately 50 feet.