Manatees in January?

Question

We are looking at an optional day of swimming with the manatees in Crystal River in January. Just how cold might it be? I’m assuming the spring feeding the river is cold water?

Answer

Swimming with manatees in Crystal River in January is a popular winter activity because the manatees gather in the warm springs when the surrounding Gulf and river waters are cooler. The water temperature in the springs typically ranges from 72°F to 74°F (22°C to 23°C) during winter months, which is warmer than the Gulf water but still on the cool side for extended swimming without protection.

Here’s what you should know about visiting in January:

Air temperatures can be in the mid-50s to mid-60s°F (13–18°C) in January, so it may feel chilly getting in and out of the water.
Most tour operators provide or require a wetsuit (often 3mm to 5mm thickness), which helps maintain warmth and allows you to swim comfortably around the manatees.
The manatees are generally more relaxed in winter and tend to stay close to the springs, making January a great time for consistent sightings.

Tips for a better experience:

Book a guided tour with an experienced operator; they provide wetsuits, snorkel gear, and guidance to interact safely with manatees without disturbing them.
Wear water shoes or reef socks, as spring bottoms can be slightly rocky or sandy.
Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro if you want to capture the experience, but follow guidelines to avoid disturbing the animals.

Overall, while the spring water may feel cool at first, with a proper wetsuit, swimming with manatees in January is very comfortable, and you’ll get to see these gentle creatures up close in their winter sanctuary.