The guides at Get Up And Go Kayaking (GUAGK) are used to magical wildlife encounters. Their transparent kayaks drift through Florida’s crystal-clear springs, offering unforgettable views of animals above and below the surface. But even for seasoned guides, some moments stand out.
Recently, during a tour at Silver Springs State Park, one guide captured a scene so tender it left everyone speechless.
“Baby manatee and Mama giving hugs on the river today,” Get Up And Go Silver Springs (GUAGSS) shared on Instagram. “This sweet moment was caught by our guide, Josh.”
You can watch that moment here:
As the kayaks floated quietly by, a tiny manatee calf glided up to his mother and pressed a soft kiss to her chin. The gentle giant responded by wrapping her flippers around her baby in a loving embrace — a rare and intimate glimpse into the emotional world of manatees.
Manatees call the Silver River home year-round, but numbers swell between November and March during Manatee Season. Cooler waters draw in expectant and nursing mothers, affectionately known as “sea cows,” before many move on again when the temperatures rise.
Finding a new baby is always a thrill for the GUAGK team, but witnessing such obvious affection between mother and calf was something truly special.
“We came across Mama still keeping her baby close to her,” GUAGSS wrote in a follow-up post.
While these moments are heart-stoppingly sweet, guides are careful to follow strict wildlife-viewing protocols — especially when little ones are involved.
“If you see this duo along the Silver River, please keep a safe distance,” GUAGSS advised. “Baby manatees need space to surface for air, and Mama needs room to feed and graze so she can keep her baby healthy.”
Manatee Season continues to bring joy to visitors and guides alike, and while no one knows whether this affectionate pair will stay once the water warms, their gentle encounter is one the group won’t soon forget.
“There’s something peaceful about watching these amazing creatures flow with the current,” GUAGSS wrote. “We could watch them all day long.”
You can follow more of Get Up And Go Silver Springs’ wildlife moments on Instagram, or learn about their Central Florida kayak tours on their website.
