Ultimate Marine Wildlife Experiences

Swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida

Winter in Florida brings not just waves of retirees but also wildlife-lovers hoping to share a warm bath with a mermaid. In Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, the water temperature stays a consistent 22°C year-round – just how American manatees like it. Hundreds of these rotund marine mammals gather in the refuge’s clear, shallow waters between November and April, numbers peaking in midwinter. And they seem to enjoy company: slip into the water, mask and snorkel in place, and within minutes you’ll likely be greeted by a friendly face.

With their whiskered chops, half-tonne heft and leathery backs cloaked in algae, it’s hard to imagine how sailors of old mistook 3m-long manatees for mermaids. But though they resemble particularly jowly elephant seals, their charming personalities more than make up for aesthetic shortcomings. When not resting or grazing on sea grass, these curious creatures often huddle up against swimmers – or even embrace them in a warm hug.

Also try… Belize;Tortuguero NP, Costa Rica; Brazil.

Dive with manta rays on Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

So-called ‘devil fish’ come