How to Swim With Manatees in Jamaica

Endangered manatees are often sighted in areas along the coast of Jamaica. Sometimes referred to as sea cows because of their diet of sea grasses and weeds, manatees are famous for their good nature, and have even been known to rescue drowning people by raising them to the surface of the water. Although their peaceful disposition means they are safe to swim with, it also means that they are extremely vulnerable to poachers. Manatees have been listed as an endangered species by the World Wildlife Foundation. That being said, there are still plenty of opportunities to swim with manatees in Jamaica.

Things You'll Need

  • Swimwear
  • Snorkel
  • Mask
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make a reservation with a hotel situated along the south coast of Jamaica. West-Indian manatees have been sighted in many different locations around Jamaica, but mainly along the south coast. According to the National Environment and Planning Agency, manatees are most commonly found in Yallas, Port Morant (St. Thomas), Old Harbour, Hellshire (St. Catherine), Farquhar's Beach, Jackson Bay (Clarendon), and Aligator Pond, Gut River (Manchester).

    • 2

      Look for manatees in areas of shallow water, three to six feet deep. They need a supply of fresh drinking water, which means that they can often be found in estuaries and deltas, where the fresh water of the river meets the salt water of the ocean. They can also be found in rivers and areas of calm water. Manatee seekers can rent boats in order to get to the best sites.

    • 3

      When approaching the appropriate diving site, turn off the boat's engine and paddle into position before slowly lowering the anchor.

    • 4

      Put on a snorkel and mask, and quietly get into the water. Any noise or splashing might scare any nearby manatees.

    • 5

      Float on the surface of the water and observe the manatees. Don't attempt to chase the animals, or to make contact with manatees who are trying to keep their distance.