Manatee Cove

Now Open!

A New Chapter in Manatee Care: The Gulfarium Welcomes Lil Joe and Inigo

In a profound stride toward protecting one of Florida’s most beloved marine creatures, the Gulfarium proudly announces the arrival of two rescued manatees—Lil Joe and Inigo—to its newly renovated manatee habitat. This milestone is the culmination of a three-year vision that began in 2022, when Patrick Berry, CEO of the Gulfarium, first spoke with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service about creating a haven dedicated to nurturing manatees in need of long-term care.

Originally a 300,000-gallon dolphin habitat, the space, now named Manatee Cove, has been meticulously transformed to meet the specialized needs of rescued manatees. Improved viewing windows invite guests into the gentle underwater world of these animals, while enhanced Life Support Systems (LSS), a dedicated medical area, and intentionally designed resting ledges ensure that Lil Joe, Inigo, and future manatee residents receive the focused attention they need to thrive.

To learn more about this amazing new addition, check out the full press release below.

Watch a sneak peak of the Manatee Cove here!

Manatees, often vulnerable to various threats, face mortality risks from human activity such as boat strikes, flood gates, and entanglement in debris.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in 2023 alone, 556 manatees perished in the state, with 89 falling victim to boat strikes.

These staggering figures underscore the critical need for rehabilitation programs like those facilitated by the Gulfarium and MRP.

“Our commitment to conservation efforts now includes manatee rehabilitation and release initiatives. Through our partnership with MRP and the support of our community, we aim to turn the tide on manatee mortality rates and ensure a brighter future for these gentle creatures.”

-Patrick Berry, Vice President and COO of Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.

Manatee FAQs

Can I visit the manatees at the Gulfarium?Gulfarium Marketing2025-04-29T09:40:31-05:00

Can I visit the manatees at the Gulfarium?

Yes! Manatee Cove can be viewed as part of general admission to the Gulfarium. Visitors are encouraged to explore Manatee Cove, where they can observe the manatees up close through improved viewing windows and a state-of-the-art underwater observation area. Daily educational chats and interactive programs provide insights into manatee conservation and how you can help protect these incredible animals.

What is Manatee Cove, and why was it created?Gulfarium Marketing2025-04-29T09:44:04-05:00

What is Manatee Cove, and why was it created?

Manatee Cove is the Gulfarium’s newly renovated habitat designed specifically for rescued manatees in need of extended care. Originally a 300,000-gallon dolphin habitat, it has been transformed to meet the specialized needs of manatees, featuring enhanced Life Support Systems (LSS), a dedicated medical area, and resting ledges. This expansion allows the Gulfarium to support statewide manatee rescue efforts while educating visitors about manatee conservation.

Will the Gulfarium take in more rescued manatees in the future?Gulfarium Marketing2025-01-30T10:52:19-06:00

Will the Gulfarium take in more rescued manatees in the future?

Yes! The Gulfarium plans to further develop its manatee program by expanding to provide critical care for manatees in need within the Panhandle area. By doing so, we aim to relieve pressure on critical-care facilities in central Florida, allowing them to focus on more urgent cases. As space allows, additional rescued manatees may be housed at Manatee Cove to continue their rehabilitation journey.

What makes Manatee Cove unique?Gulfarium Marketing2025-01-30T10:50:55-06:00

What makes Manatee Cove unique?

Manatee Cove includes state-of-the-art filtration technology that mimics Florida’s natural spring waters, providing an optimal environment for the manatees. Additionally, the habitat features an underwater observation area where guests can get an up-close view of these gentle giants, making it a one-of-a-kind educational experience in the Florida Panhandle.