Arrived in Crystal River about 8pm last night, 04/11/15, after good BA flight and drive from Tampa. Staying at Hampton Inn. Today, Thursday, we woke early as expected at 5.20, so had early breakfast at the hotel before visiting the Homosassa state pàrk to hopefully see manatees. Went on a boat ride along a creek to the entrance and ticket booth. The park has a lot of animals that have been rescued and can't be released such as red wolves, a bear and the only non indigenous animal, a hippo! There are 4 old female manatees which were fed with lettuces and are on a diet! We had a picnic by the river where we were very lucky to see 3 wild manatees, 2 quite small ones. They're quite ea,rly to be there as t he park doesn't open the gates for the wild ones until 15th Nov. Great to see them. Spent about 4 hrs there. Bit sad to see ospreys with damaged wings who will never be free, as well as owls etc.
Returned to the hotel and had a swim and relaxed by the pool. Later went for dinner at Copps winery and brewery. Not much choice of food so we had a sausage ciabatta with potato salad but good selection of beers and wine. We sampled 4 beers and 3 wines.
