WE ARE THE MANATEE EXPERTS!

Meet the Manatees of the Florida Keys

Gentle, curious, and unforgettable — manatees are the heart of our eco tours. Learn about these amazing creatures, where to spot them in Key Largo, and how we protect their natural habitat while offering guests a chance to see them up close.
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Manatee Behavior & Habitat

Discover how these gentle giants spend their days — from slow, graceful movements through seagrass beds to sunbathing near warm springs. Learn where they thrive and how Key Largo’s ecosystem supports them.

When & Where to Spot Manatees

Timing is everything! Get tips on the best seasons and locations in the Florida Keys to catch a glimpse of a manatee during your eco tour with Captain Sterling’s.

Protecting the Gentle Giants

Manatees are a threatened species, and we’re committed to keeping them safe. Learn how our tours are designed to respect their space and support conservation efforts in the Everglades.
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Wildlife Spotting

Manatees in Key Largo: Gentle Giants of the Florida Keys

Key Largo is home to one of Florida’s most beloved marine creatures: the manatee. Learn the best times and places to see them and why these sea cows are a must-see on your next Florida Keys adventure.

There’s nothing quite like watching a manatee glide silently beneath your boat, a peaceful reminder of the magic that lives in the waters of Key Largo.

Captain Sterling
April 25, 2025
•
5 min read

Manatee Behavior & Habitat

Discover how these gentle giants spend their days — from slow, graceful movements through seagrass beds to sunbathing near warm springs. Learn where they thrive and how Key Largo’s ecosystem supports them.

Slow-Moving and Gentle by Nature

Manatees are known for their calm, slow movements — often gliding gracefully through shallow waters at just 3–5 miles per hour. Their relaxed nature makes them easy to observe on our eco tours, offering a peaceful wildlife experience in Key Largo.

Warm Water Seekers

Manatees thrive in warm, coastal environments and are especially drawn to the natural springs and protected bays around Key Largo. During cooler months, they migrate to find consistent water temperatures above 68°F, which is why our Everglades routes are ideal for sightings.

Seagrass Beds: Nature’s Buffet

Manatees are herbivores that spend up to 8 hours a day grazing on seagrass and aquatic vegetation. Our eco tours pass through thriving seagrass ecosystems, giving you a chance to see manatees in their natural habitat — peacefully feeding and interacting with the environment.

When & Where to Spot Manatees

Timing is everything! Get tips on the best seasons and locations in the Florida Keys to catch a glimpse of a manatee during your eco tour with Captain Sterling’s.

Best Time of Year to See Manatees

While manatees can be seen year-round in Key Largo, the cooler months from November to March offer the highest chance for sightings. As water temperatures drop, manatees migrate toward warmer, shallow waters — many of which are along our eco tour routes.

Top Manatee Hotspots in Key Largo

Captain Sterling’s tours are designed to visit the best locations for manatee viewing, including protected mangrove channels, seagrass beds, and coastal inlets. These calm, natural areas are ideal for peaceful wildlife encounters without disturbing the environment.

How Our Guides Help You Spot Them

Our experienced local guides know exactly where manatees like to gather. With decades of knowledge and up-to-the-minute conditions, we navigate you to areas with the best visibility — giving you the best chance of a magical, up-close encounter.
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Protecting the Gentle Giants

Manatees are a threatened species, and we’re committed to keeping them safe. Learn how our tours are designed to respect their space and support conservation efforts in the Everglades.

Responsible Wildlife Viewing

At Captain Sterling’s, we believe the best manatee encounters happen on their terms. That’s why we follow strict no-touch, no-feed, and slow-speed policies — keeping both guests and wildlife safe while preserving the manatee’s natural behavior.

Eco-Friendly Tour Practices

Our boats are designed to operate quietly and responsibly in shallow waters, minimizing wake and avoiding harm to seagrass beds — a critical food source for manatees. We also avoid high-traffic zones and known manatee resting areas.

Educating Every Guest

Every tour is an opportunity to inspire. Our guides share important information about manatee conservation, local ecosystem health, and how small choices — like reducing single-use plastics — can make a big impact on marine life.

Supporting Local Conservation Efforts

A portion of our proceeds supports manatee research and habitat protection programs in the Florida Keys. When you tour with us, you're not just observing nature — you’re helping preserve it for future generations.
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Captain Sterling's FAQ's

Manatee Tour FAQs

Have questions about spotting manatees in Key Largo? We’ve got answers. From the best times to see them to what to bring on your eco tour, here’s everything you need to know before you join Captain Sterling’s unforgettable Everglades experience.
Can I see manatees in Key Largo year-round?
Yes! While manatees are more active in cooler months, our eco tours in Key Largo offer sightings year-round. Captain Sterling’s routes are designed to explore warm, shallow areas where manatees are most likely to gather.
Can I What time of day is best for spotting manatees?
Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see manatees in Key Largo. Our expert guides know the local waters and adjust each tour to increase your chances of encountering these gentle giants.
Are your tours safe for manatees and the environment?
Absolutely. Captain Sterling’s Everglades Eco Tours are 100% eco-conscious. We follow strict no-wake policies, respect wildlife distances, and educate our guests on how to help protect manatees and their natural habitat.
What should I bring on a manatee tour in the Florida Keys?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, a hat, and a camera. You won’t want to miss capturing a manatee sighting! Water and light snacks are also great to have on hand during your Key Largo adventure.
Are manatee tours good for kids and families?
Yes! Our manatee eco tours in Key Largo are family-friendly and perfect for all ages. The calm waters and slow-paced experience make it great for kids, seniors, and anyone looking to enjoy nature at its best.
How close do we get to the manatees during the tour?
Our goal is to observe manatees respectfully in their natural environment. While we never approach or touch them, they’re naturally curious and sometimes come close to the boat — a magical moment you'll never forget!

Ready to Meet a Manatee?

Join us on a peaceful eco tour through the waters of Key Largo and experience the magic of seeing manatees in the wild. Book your adventure with Captain Sterling’s today and explore the Everglades the right way — with respect, knowledge, and unforgettable views.
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