Road trip: Swim with cows
Central Florida offers more than Disney
Measuring up to 13 feet and weighing in at more than 1,000 pounds, it’s not hard to figure out how manatees became known as the cows of the sea. These gentle creatures dot the Florida coasts, lumbering along through channels frequented by boaters, fisherman, and others. The telltale scars on their backs from boat propellers vaulted the animals into the hearts of many Americans as a symbol of our impact on nature.
It’s surprisingly easy to experience these incredible mammals up close, and general aviation is your ticket. From November through April, manatees frequent central Florida’s clear spring-fed rivers near Crystal River. At Three Sisters Springs and Homosassa Springs, guides can bring you in a boat or kayak to manatee areas. There you can simply observe from above the water, or snorkel or scuba dive with the animals. Although they are endangered, touching and interactions are allowed. Landlubbers can even spot manatees from boardwalks that overlook the water.
Flying in to the Crystal River airport, pilots are treated to great views of the nearby springs and Florida’s nature coast. The airport is well outside the state’s busy Class B areas, and it is a quick and easy in and out. There’s ample ramp parking with low overnight fees, available rental cars, and a friendly and attentive staff. Don’t forget about the Dairy Queen just outside the airport fence. The airport represents some of the best that GA has to offer.
Why you should go: A nature lover’s dream of hiking, natural springs, wildlife, and more are all just a few minutes from a gem of a general aviation airport.
Take the leap
Time to dive
Learn in a controlled environment
If you’ve ever wanted to learn to dive but you’re intimidated by diving deep on your first experience, springs are a great place to learn. Sort of like learning to fly at a nontowered airport, learning to dive in an area like Crystal River will give you a chance to focus on the techniques in relatively shallow water that always has great visibility, a predictable temperature, and no waves. Crystal River has about a half-dozen dive shops where you can learn in just a few days.
Crystal River-Capt. Tom Davis Field (CGC). Crystal River, Florida. Located nine miles from the business district, the airport has one paved runway, 9/27 (4,555 feet long); and one turf runway, 18/36 (2,666 feet long).
