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.
Yet this undertaking is about far more than a physical renovation—it is a testament to the Gulfarium’s dedication to giving manatees a second chance at life. With so many of these gentle giants, a federally threatened species, facing threats in the wild, it became clear that an expanded facility was necessary to help manatees beyond their initial critical care stages.
By joining forces with the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP), U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the Gulfarium is now the first facility in the Florida Panhandle to provide housing for rescued manatees requiring extended care. This vital collaboration relieves pressure on central Florida’s critical-care facilities, allowing them to focus on more urgent cases and strengthening statewide efforts to save manatees from harm. Additionally, the Gulfarium plans to further develop its manatee program by expanding to provide critical care for manatees in need within the northern Gulf Coast region.
Lil Joe and Inigo, who previously called The Seas with Nemo & Friends their home, will serve as living ambassadors for their species—sharing a message of resilience and hope with everyone who comes to see them. Visitors will discover their stories in a newly created education area, where daily chats and additional educational programming with the Gulfarium’s team shine a light on the challenges manatees face in the wild and how each of us can play a role in their protection.
“The Gulfarium is honored to welcome Lil Joe and Inigo, two extraordinary manatees who will help illuminate the urgent conservation needs of their species,” said Patrick Berry. “Our vision has always been to create a caring environment where manatees can continue their healing journeys while inspiring our guests to connect more deeply with marine life. By taking on the long-term care of these animals, we enable facilities in central Florida and elsewhere to devote critical resources to those manatees in acute need. We’re proud to stand with our partners in the MRP to protect these vulnerable creatures.”
Central to the Gulfarium’s mission is public engagement. In addition to providing top-tier animal care, the new manatee habitat fosters a deeper understanding of manatees’ plight. Through interactive programs, visitors can learn about Florida’s marine ecosystems, ongoing rescue efforts, and the simple steps we can all take to protect wildlife.
This vision aligns seamlessly with the Gulfarium’s accreditations by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks & Aquariums (AMMPA) and the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA), underscoring an unwavering commitment to the highest standards of animal care, conservation, and public education. By welcoming Lil Joe and Inigo, the Gulfarium demonstrates the power of compassion, collaboration, and community engagement in safeguarding Florida’s remarkable marine life.
For those eager to learn more about manatees and experience the wonder of these gentle giants firsthand, Lil Joe and Inigo can be viewed as part of general admission to the Gulfarium. Guests are encouraged to explore Manatee Cove, attend daily educational chats, and discover how their own actions can make a positive impact on manatee conservation efforts.
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