My brother worked as a commercial diver in FL for years. Mostly doing in the water boat and ship repairs. At one marina a manatee took a liking to him and wouldn’t leave him alone. This manatee didn’t bother other divers. My brother reported this to the fish & game people so it was on the record. He moved and wasn’t around for about five years. On one occasion, years later, he was assigned a job at this marina and as soon as he hit the water the same manatee appeared and rubbed up against him. Funny as hell and a great thing to razz him with.
It doesn’t surprise me. They have been known to recognize people. They are very friendly, especially the calves. I’ve never swam with them, but I’ve seen them swim with kids many times at one of the springs near my house.
They may seem docile, but they are wild animals that weigh over 1000 pounds.