Vacation 2005 - 2006 - Day 4

Unfortunately Day 4 began with Chris, Brandi, Zack, Kayla, Mom, Dad, Jill and I leaving the rental house in Orlando to begin our drive Northwest to Crystal River. Randy and Meredithe had to head back to South Bend on this day, to get back to work :( The rest of us went to Crystal River to go snorkeling with the manatees. The picture above is Chris helping Zack get into his wetsuit - probably the least fun part of snorkeling or diving.
After we all got our wetsuits and snorkels, we jumped in the water to find some manatees. They are an endangered species, and Crystal River is home to a protected area for them. You are not allowed to ride, chase, or grab them, but you are allowed to pet them - if they approach you first, or are passing by.
We had a great time, and probably saw 30 or more manatees in only a couple hours. This picture was taken from the boat, so that gives you an idea of how close they get. They weigh on average about 1,000 pounds, and are about 10 feet long. They look pretty imposing when approaching under the water, but are very docile (and thankfully are herbivores).
Here's Brandi, Kayla and Mom on the boat.
Jill and I on the boat getting some sun. It was a nice day to be out there, and no one got seasick.
Dad teaching Zack to drive the boat. He did a good job, we didn't run into anything :)