I haven't participated in an organized swim with Manatees, however, I know that it is against the law here in Florida to "harass" them in open waterways and that includes touching them. While at Wakulla Springs in May, a young juvenile Manatee entered the swimming area and the lifeguards made us back up away from it even though it was quite curious about people. I don't know what they allow you to do during this Manatee encounter, but I can't imagine that it would be much.
On the other hand, our family has spent a day at Discovery Cove and it was literally amazing. We did go all out though and had a private cabana. It was a large private area with a gate and thick landscape that separated one from the neighboring cabanas and other people at the park. At the entrance, there was a large sandy area with wood lounging chairs in the sun with towels and flowers. Along the back was a large cabana-type tent on a raised wooden platform complete with tables, chairs, a well-stocked refrigerator, and a private lockable locker. Along the rear was an unobstructed view of the lagoon where the dolphin encounter is conducted. We also had an attendant that took us to get our swim gear, showed us where all the food was, showed us around the park, and then would go get just about anything we wanted, including drinks. The Cabana was part of a birthday experience that included a dolphin giving our son a buoy with birthday greetings. This was five years ago and at the time, this cost about $300 in addition to the admission rate and the dolphin swim. It was worth every penny, especially during the late afternoon rains and we had a place to ourselves to stay.
My husband and son had a blast on the dolphin experience. I didn't do it as I wanted to video record the encounter. I should have done it though because the staff records it for you and you can buy the CD-Rom of the encounter prior to leaving.
This type of experience at the park is expensive though, but it is one we will never forget and made our son's birthday absolutely amazing. He had been wanting to go for years and we managed to keep it a secret till that morning when we pulled into the parking lot. All in all, even with our Florida Resident discount and going in late August, we dropped about a grand for everything, including admission, two dolphin swims, the cabana and birthday greetings, the ultimate picture pack, and tips. All food and all drinks--including beer--are included in admission and there are also breakfast offerings in addition to lunch. The food was quite good.
Good luck with your trip planning!
