Look at how amazingly crystal clear the water is under our kayak. We are not floating in mid-air, but rather floating down the tributaries of the Crystal River over on the gulf. Our morning trek took us immediately past a 'cloistered' nook where we saw about a dozen manatee lounging out in the shadows. They are very challenging to photograph, as a novice in a kayak. We then paddled up a very small shoot to get back to "Three Sisters Spring" which is where this second photo was taken. Again, the water was amazingly, breath taking clear.
As we came back down our little snaking route, re-passing the Manatee Lounge, our lumbering slumbering friends were waking up, snorting and heading out to the gulf. The third picture is the best I was able to capture of one of our ten foot long buddies -- who was literally just beyond my paddle. Give your self enough time to find my Waldo. He's half-way down the picture and completely fills the pic from left to right, his tail on the left. Allen spotted our feathered friend in the final photo along the banks, later in the morning.
The day was truly picture postcard perfect. Our guide was knowledgeable and filled with stories to entertain. He's a transplant from Montana and was leading us in his hand-built wooden canoe. What a memorable final day for me in the sunshine state!
Our guide suggested we head over to "Peck's" for a late lunch and at his recommendation I ordered their famous soft-shell crab sandwich. Amazing. Juicy. Delicious. Another first. (A note to the casual traveler: the road back to Peck's is a picturesque 9 miles off the highway, twisting and turning the entire way-- and once you FINALLY arrive at the destination you're sharing the place with a WHOLE lot of motor-cyclists. It would be a glorious ride on a bike! Truly a one-of-a-kind spot.) I would highly recommend the crab sandwich, as long as you're not put off by seeing every leg and pincher sticking out of the sides of the home-made bread.... if so, just eat with your eyes closed, it's a delicacy too good to miss.
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