Manatees & Merfolk Camp
A Florida Springs Adventure Retreat
Astor, FL January 16-19, 2026
A Mermaid Adventure with Florida’s Beloved Gentle Giants
Step into the springs and into the magic! This four-day, all-inclusive retreat is all about connection, wonder, and playfulness. We will be swimming alongside one of the ocean’s most beloved animals: the manatee. Manatees were the original mermaids, and now you’ll have the chance to share the water with them in their natural, peaceful habitat.
Whether you’re already a Certified Mermaid or brand new to the tail, you’ll be welcomed with open fins. We offer a fun, beginner-friendly course at the start of the retreat to get you confident, safe, and ready to dive in.
Over four unforgettable days, you’ll:
– Swim side by side with wild manatees in the crystal-clear Florida springs
– Capture the magic with photoshoots and expert pose coaching
– Participate in a bracelet-making workshop that fits into our theme
– Enjoy three meals a day and communal lodging with your new merfriends
– Connect deeply with other merfolk in a warm, inclusive community
Come to explore, to recharge, and to float with Florida’s friendliest sea creatures.
All genders welcome. No previous mermaid experience required—just a love for the water and a heart ready for magic.
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Have you yet to get your Mermaid certification? This package is for you!
We will get you started on your PADI Mermaid journey in a PADI Basic Mermaid Course. This course will get you ready to explore the underwater world safely and confidently.
No tail? No worries! We have a stock of Finfolk Discovery tails and Linden Monofins ready for you to use :)
Price: $1,650
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Do you already have a Mermaid certification? This package is for you!
Whether you are Mermaid certified through PADI, SSI, or NAUI, we’ve got a place for you!
Price: $1,600
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Photoshoot: $150
Packages:
Itinerary
Friday
5:30pm: Arrivals
6pm: Introductions, light stretching for travel recovery
6:30pm: Dinner
7:30pm: Manatee Board Games
8:30pm: Wind down
10pm: Lights out
Saturday
8:30am: Breakfast
10am: PADI Basic Mermaid and Mermaid/Manatee Safety Training Sessions
12pm: Lunch at the park
12:30pm: Swimming Manatee Encounter & Exploration
Return to the retreat house
5:30pm: Dinner
6:30pm: Bracelet Making Workshop
8:30pm: Free time
10pm: Lights out
Sunday
8:30am: Breakfast
10am: Photoshoots & Group Swim Time
11:30am: Lunch at the park
12:30pm: Swimming Manatee Encounter & Exploration
Return to the retreat house
6pm: Dinner & Movie Night in the private home theater
8pm: Free time
10pm: Lights out
Monday
8:30am Breakfast
9am: Integration
10am: Departures
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This retreat is all-inclusive, which means lodging and meals are included! The community living arrangements mean that everyone will have their own bed, and some people may share a room. Our chef will cook for you, three meals a day! Our wonderful hosts will also lead you in group activities like bracelet making and themed games.
Park admission is covered. No need to worry about a thing!
You’re also welcome to ask our PADI Mermaid Instructor, Claire, for any advice on tricks and techniques you want to improve upon! She’s always down for a mini coaching session, as long as there’s time!
No tail? No worries! You can wear our Finfolk Discovery tails and Linden Monofins.
We provide the following gear:
Mermaid Tails
Monofins
Floatation Devices
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Required:
Wetsuit that is at least 3mm
Neoprene socks that are at least 3mm
Mask and snorkel
Bi-fins (for Beginner package only)
Sunscreen
Towel
See our Gear Guide for wetsuit and gear recommendations.
Other items to add to your packing list:
Warm comfy clothes
Toiletries
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If you are flying in, you will need arrange your own transportation from and to the airport. Once you get to the retreat house, we’ve got you covered!
To get to the springs, we operate on a carpool system, which means you may be riding with the hosts and/or other students.
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Florida is quite warm in January compared to other states! That said, we will be in central Florida, so it will still get chilly, especially in the mornings. The water temperature in the springs is a constant 72 degrees F, which is why a 3mm or higher wetsuit is required.
About Manatee Protection & Conservation
Manatees have long been called the original mermaids, and during this retreat, you’ll have the rare chance to share the water with these gentle, curious beings in their natural spring habitat. It’s a truly breathtaking experience, but also a sacred one.
Manatees are a protected species under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act. To ensure we’re respectful guests in their home, we follow the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) guidelines for safe, passive observation.
That means:
Look, but don’t approach. Feeding, chasing, or approaching manatees can alter their natural behavior and put them at risk. We will stay a safe distance away, and remain relaxed in the event that they decide to approach us.
Float calmly at the surface. We use snorkels and tails to observe without disturbing.
Give them space. If a manatee swims away, we let it go — no chasing, following, or crowding.
Stay quiet and gentle. Avoid splashing or loud noises that could startle them.
But here’s the magical part: while we respect their personal space, these playful sea cows aren’t bound by the same rules. Manatees are naturally curious and often approach calm, respectful swimmers, especially graceful mermaids! When they choose to interact with you, it’s nothing short of awe-inspiring.
We’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure both your safety and theirs, because when you meet a manatee on its terms, the moment is unforgettable.
By swimming mindfully, we help protect these incredible creatures for generations to come. Let’s make waves the right way.
Apply now to secure your spot!
Once you sign up, we will contact you via email! Once your invoice is paid, we will send over your PADI eLearning and forms to be fill out. See you in Florida!
Not ready to apply? Feel free to contact us with any and all questions you have.