florida everglades national park airboat tours

create unforgettable Everglades memories at captain jack's!

Zip through Everglades City on airboat tours

Venture through a cypress forest on a swamp buggy

Get a chance to see wild alligators, birds & more

Stay safe and comfortable 

See alligators & animals up close

Hold a baby alligator

Take home gifts and memories

Everglades National Park Boat Tour

Mangrove Tunnel & National Park Combo

Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour

Mangrove maze airboat tours.

Race through a maze of Everglades mangroves on an airboat, away from other traffic.

• Mangrove Maze Ultimate Combo

• Mangrove Maze Airboat Tour

Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Combos

• Total Everglades Combo

Mangrove Tunnel & Grassland Combo

Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

Private Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

Mangrove tunnel airboat tours.

Take a high-speed tour of Everglades City's signature mangrove tunnels!

• Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

• Private Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

Grassland airboat Tours

Grassland & Buggy Combo

• Grassland Airboat Tour

4 Attractions Included with All Our Tours

When you book direct.

Animal Sanctuary

Alligator Show

Hug an Alligator

Why Choose Captain Jack’s?

Local Roots

Safety & Experience

Two-Way Headsets

Alligators & Animals

Quietest & Comfiest

Personal & Popular

Refreshments & Gifts

Guests love us.

“There is something about flying down narrow alleys of mangrove trees that is just a rush. I could never get tired of it. The guides always give more than just a ride. You learn so much about the Everglades and the total ecosystem that it is. We most certainly will be back!

—C. from Florida

“The mangrove tour was so much fun! We saw a family of dolphins swimming along the boat, several alligators, and a few fish jumping out of the water. Riding through the mangroves was beautiful and a fun way to see the Everglades. I would recommend to anyone.”

—J. from Massachusetts

“We really enjoyed seeing the alligators. The captain of the airboat gave a lot of information about the Everglades and habitat. The addition of the two-way headsets let us all communicate during the tour. This was really a highlight of having friends down visiting us new Florida residents. Plan to bring other guests."

—K. from Florida

“We did the combo package and it was amazing! Great way to experience all 3 ways to 'see' the Everglades! Would highly recommend. All the captains for each segment were fantastic! Had a great time!"

—J.T.

• Mangrove Tunnel & National Park Combo
• Mangrove Tunnel & Grassland Combo
• Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo
• Private Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo
• Grassland & Buggy Combo
• Lodging Nearby
• Total Everglades Stay & Play
• Online Gift Shop
• Animals & Alligator Show
• Everglades City Boardwalk

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best everglades airboat swamp tours.

See much more than alligators during one of these exciting trips.

The Top Everglades Airboat Swamp Tours

Getty Images

If you're planning a trip to Miami or Fort Lauderdale, Florida , visiting Everglades National Park should be on your to-do list. The South Florida national park is known for its expansive beauty, as well as its varied population of wildlife that includes everything from bobcats to alligators.

To see all the Everglades has to offer, sign up for a guided tour. U.S. News consulted both traveler sentiment and expert opinion to identify the top Everglades tours. Before you go, make sure you read through the National Park Service's Wildlife Viewing Ethics to keep both yourself and the animals safe during your time in the park. When choosing the best Everglades tours, we avoided recommending operators that promote wildlife shows or encourage feeding or holding the animals for photo-ops.

Visitors should plan to pay a fee to enter the park, as it may not be included in the price of the tour ticket. You should also keep in mind that many of these tour operators are located at least 30 miles west of Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Tours that run on airboats – open-air vessels with huge fans at the back that propel the boat – can be very loud. Companies will generally offer ear protection, but if you or your companions are sensitive to loud noises, contact the tour provider to discuss options before you book.

The Best Everglades Airboat Swamp Tours

Everglades swamp tours – one hour group tour.

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $30 Duration: 1 hour

This sightseeing trip takes you out on an airboat to cruise through the Everglades' main waterways in search of alligators, birds and interesting vegetation. Throughout the ride, knowledgeable guides share facts about the area's history and ecology. Many travelers recommend booking this tour, describing it as fun and informative, with plenty of wildlife sightings. Departures generally take place daily at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., but availability may vary by month.

Children 5 and younger can ride for free, but still require a reserved seats. Also check out Everglades Swamp Tours for private airboat tours that last up to two hours.

Check prices & availability on:

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures – 30-Minute Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $30 Duration: 30 minutes

Located at the headwaters of the Everglades in Kissimmee, Florida (about 40 miles south of Orlando), Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures earns praise from reviewers for its personable, experienced staff and the family-friendly environment. On the airboat ride, you and up to 16 other passengers will glide through the tall grass in search of eagles, alligators, raccoons and more. In addition to airboat rides, the site houses a replica of a Jororo Tribe village, as well as a gem and fossil mining activity for kids.

Tours depart throughout the day from 9 a.m. to 5 pm. You can buy your tickets online, but there are no reservations for this tour. For a longer adventure, consider the company's hourlong airboat ride. There are also sunset and night tours, if you're hoping to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Marsh Landing Adventures – 90-Minute Everglades Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $60 Duration: 1.5 hours

For wildlife lovers who want more than half an hour to experience the Everglades, this 1.5-hour airboat ride from Marsh Landing Adventures is an excellent experience. Located in Kissimmee on Lake Tohopekaliga, Marsh Landing Adventures promises travelers an in-depth look at the headwaters of the Everglades and the plants and animals that inhabit its waters. What's more, the company says it can reach areas of the Everglades that are inaccessible to larger boats because of its small crafts. Travelers give kudos to the boat captain for their educational and entertaining delivery. Many call the experience the highlight of their Florida vacation.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations are required, and there is a 1% fuel surcharge added to each ticket. Marsh Landing Adventures also offers hourlong, two-hour and four-hour airboat rides.

Everglades City Airboat Tours

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $31 Duration: 1 hour

Everglades City Airboat Tours sets itself apart from other companies by offering participants two-way headsets, which allow passengers and guides to better engage with one another throughout the hourlong ride. As you navigate through narrow creeks and shallow bays, you may spot alligators, manatees and birds. Tourists enjoy the ride and appreciate the headsets. Reviewers are also complimentary of the boat captains, who they describe as entertaining and knowledgeable.

Tours depart multiple times Monday through Saturday, although timing may be modified based on the season. It's a good idea to reserve your tour in advance. Everglades City Airboat Tours is located approximately 85 miles west of Miami and 35 miles southeast of Naples, Florida.

Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours – 45-Minute Standard Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $27.50 Duration: 45 minutes

For an excursion that combines cultural immersion and wildlife viewing, consider this outing from Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours. The Miccosukee family-owned company's standard tour focuses on introducing visitors to the homelands of the Miccosukee people: an American Indian tribe that migrated to Florida before it became a state. During the tour, you'll not only see local wildlife, but also will get to see a Miccosukee Indian camp and take a nature walk. Visitors recommend the tour, describing it as an amazing experience thanks to the small, intimate group size.

Tours run daily at multiple times between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The company also offers private outings.

Everglades River of Grass Adventures – Semi-Private River of Grass Airboat Tours Everglades

Price: Adults from $85; kids from $45 Duration: 1.5 hours

One perk of this tour is that it is capped at six to eight travelers per boat. During the excursion, you'll get the chance to see the famous flora and fauna of the Everglades, including herons and alligators. Visitors say this is a family-friendly tour and call the trip "memorable" and "amazing."

These tours run seven days a week; since they're semiprivate, you must call or email to find out the best times to depart. River of Grass Adventures also offers sunset tours of the Everglades.

Other Popular Everglades Tours

Shurr Adventures Everglades – Three Hour Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour Small Group Adventure

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $99 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Enjoy an up-close view of animals and nature, and get some exercise in too, on this kayak tour of the Everglades' mangroves. As you paddle your way through the mangrove tunnels, you may spot orchids, birds and, of course, alligators. Kayakers say this tour is excellent and appreciate the patient, experienced guides who share a wealth of information about the plants and animals that reside in this unique ecosystem. What's more, reviewers appreciate that the tours are limited to just eight participants.

Tours are available Monday through Saturday from August to April; times vary by season. Children must be at least 7 years old to participate. Tourgoers will enjoy three to 3.5 hours out on the water but should plan to spend a total of four hours on-site from start to finish. Shurr Adventures Everglades also offers a full-day tour of the mangrove tunnels, as well as a motorboat tour in the Ten Thousand Islands region of Everglades National Park, among other options.

Shark Valley Tram Tours

Price: Adults from $31; kids from $16 Duration: 2 hours

These naturalist-led excursions not only include a tour around Everglades National Park in an open-air tram, they also give tourgoers the chance to explore on foot. Halfway through the tour, participants can climb a 45-foot-tall observation deck to see sweeping views of the surrounding vegetation. During the two-hour tour, travelers also have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife. Tourgoers enjoy learning about the Everglades from the expert guides and say riding the tram is part of the fun. Many also recommended taking a morning tour to avoid the midday heat.

From mid-December through late April, tours depart on the hour daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From May through mid-December, tours depart at 9:30 and 11 a.m. and 2 and 4 p.m. Shark Valley Tram Tours also offers self-guided bike tours. (Note that you'll have to pay a separate fee to enter Everglades National Park for any tour.)

Everglades Florida Adventures – Ten Thousand Islands Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $29 Duration: 3 hours

If you're hoping to see the Everglades by boat, but want something a little quieter than an airboat ride, consider this cruise. Departing from Port of the Islands Marina in Naples, this 45-foot passenger catamaran glides across the Faka Union Canal while guides share information about the history and ecology of the area. Tourgoers report spotting lots of birds, turtles, dolphins and manatees. They also call out the insightful crew and clean, comfortable boat as highlights.

Cruises are offered Monday to Friday at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Everglades Florida Adventures also offers kayak and canoe rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Like any other form of transportation, riding an airboat may come with some risks. To stay safe on your Everglades airboat tour, be sure to choose a company run by experienced, professional boaters (most of which undergo special training and are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard) and adhere to all rules set forth by your guide. Parents should keep a close eye on children and be sure they are properly fitted for their life jackets, and all passengers should protect against the heat by wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated. Commercial airboats typically do not exceed speeds of 30 to 40 mph to ensure a safe, smooth ride, and most operators will reschedule your tour in the event of lightning or other inclement weather. Tour companies will also generally provide riders with proper ear protection, as the boats are quite loud.

Typically, passengers will feel the most comfortable in lightweight, sleeveless clothing and shorts while on an Everglades airboat tour. If you are taking a wintertime tour, keep an eye on the weather – pants and long sleeves may be a better option, but you likely won't need a heavy jacket. Be sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen and water to protect yourself from the effects of the sun; you may also want a hat to provide further shade and keep hair in place. Passengers with long hair are advised to wear it in a ponytail or bun to keep it from becoming knotted in the wind. Tourgoers may also wish to apply some bug spray prior to embarking on their adventure.

Airboat tours last about an hour, though duration will depend on the tour company.

An airboat's top speed is about 30 mph.

Not normally, but you run a small risk of getting misted with water. If you take a tour when it is raining, expect to get wet.

In winter, you'll want to time your visit for midday, when it warms up. In summer, you'll want to visit in the morning or later afternoon when it's coolest. Visiting at these times can increase your chances of seeing wildlife, but you'll likely see all kinds of critters no matter when you visit year-round.

You might also be interested in:

• Best Miami Tours
• Best Miami Boat Tours
• The Top Museums in Miami
• The Top Things to Do in Florida
• The Best Medical Travel Insurance

Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida

Tags: Tours , Vacations , Travel , Florida

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Breaking News:

Gator Park is open every day. No reservations required, just show up!

NPS Entrance Fee is now $8 per person for adults, free for seniors, children under 16, National Park passholders, military and veterans.

Please be advised that holding live baby alligator for a photo is no longer allowed. Thank you for your understanding.

We have a limitied availability for private tours. Please call to make reservation in advance. 

Walk-ins are always welcome!

Attention Drivers: Please exercise increased caution while traveling on US41 due to current road conditions. Stay alert, reduce speed , and maintain a safe following distance. 

Welcome to GATOR PARK

An alligator adventure in the heart of the everglades national park..

Looking for some serious gator action? Gator Park is the premier airboat tour in the Florida Everglades to spy these fierce reptiles. Airboat rides depart every few minutes, so your Everglades experience begins the moment you arrive. We also offer private airboat tours for a more up close and personal look at the alligators .

The Everglades National Park is known for its vast wildlife, many of whom you’ll meet on your airboat tour. From endangered birds you won’t find anywhere else to small creatures that live among these wild alligators , you’ll see Florida as few people do.

The Everglades' marine life includes more than 200,000 alligators, so you’re guaranteed to spy quite a few on your Everglades tour! American crocodiles and fish, including large mouth bass,  blue gil and catfish, are also frequent guest stars on the tour.

More than 28 different snakes - a few of which are venomous – also call the Everglades home, alongside the beautiful and elusive endangered Florida panther.

Experience this unique Miami, Florida attraction by booking your airboat ride through the Everglades National Park today. Give us a call at 800-559-2205 or buy tour tickets online now.

Ready to meet the gators? You’ve come to the right place. Buy your airboat tour tickets online and save time and money at the park. No reservations required! Your tickets will be available at Gator Park on the day of your airboat safari.

Airboat Tours

Get ready for the ride of your life. The Gator Park Airboat Tour begins by winding down the canal, providing plenty of photo ops to catch wildlife in their natural habitat. Experienced guides offer tips to ensure you spot alligators large and small...

Wildlife Show

Go beyond the Everglades with Gator Park's famous alligator and wildlife show and watch alligators from just a few steps away! This barehanded technique was originally used to capture alligators and showcases the great power and agility of the gators.

ALLIGATOR TOUR HOURS & RATES

Looking for a unique change of pace from other Florida tourist attractions? An Everglades airboat safari is just what you need. Gator Park is open and ready for your Everglades adventure every day, rain or shine! (The gators like the rain.)

Monday – Sunday:

• 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Last wildlife show:

Last airboat departure:

Tickets to Gator Park include admission, airboat ride through the Everglades and watch alligators at the Wildlife show. Buy tickets online and save. 

• Adults: $29.99 ($29.99 at the gate)
• Children: $19.99 (Kids 1-5 years old ride for free!)

Private airboat tours run on your schedule and are a great way to get up close and personal with the gators. Rates are by the hour.

• 1-4 People: $595.00
• 5-6 People: $695.00
• 7-10 People: $895.00
• 11-15 People: $995.00
• 16-24 People: $1495.00

$8 National Park Service entry fee is not included.

Excluded from National Park entrance fees:

• Children under the age of 16
• National Park passholders
• Senior citizens (62+ years of age)
• Active Military personnel with proper ID

Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and Diner's Club cards accepted for all our Everglades attractions.

The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

Everglades safari t-shirt, everglades national park airboat rides, step 1: how many visitors, step 2: select your airboat tour.

The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Ride

Buy your Tickets early! Use your online ticket on any day you decide to visit. » 30-40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

Buy your Tickets early!Use your online ticket on any day you decide to visit. Buying your tickets in advance also saves you $3 per Adult Ticket. » 30-40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

40 minute Private Eco-Adventure Airboat Ride

Venture deeper into Everglades National Park. Book your Private Eco-Adventure airboat tour online and secure the best date and time for you and your guests. » 40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

60 minute Private Eco-Adventure Airboat Ride

Venture deeper into Everglades National Park. Book your Private Eco-Adventure airboat tour online and secure the best date and time for you and your guests. » 60 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

60 minute Private Sunset Airboat Tour

Book your Private Sunset airboat tour online and secure the best date and time for you and your guests. Only available at specific times of the year. » 30-40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

The Original Eco-Adventure Airboat Tour

40 minute private eco-adventure airboat tour, 60 minute private eco-adventure airboat tour.

Buy your Tickets early! Use your online ticket on any day you decide to visit. Buying your tickets in advance also saves you $3 per Adult Ticket. » 30-40 minute Airboat Tour » Wildlife Nature Show » Jungle Trail, Observation Platform & Exhibits

Buy your Tickets Early! Use your online ticket on any day you decide to visit.

Prices include taxes and a $8 National Park Entrance Fee per Adult. Prices are subject to change.

Present your National Parks Pass at the Ticket Booth upon checking in.

All tickets and options are nontransferable and non-refundable and exclude activities/events separately priced. Parks, attractions and other offerings subject to availability, closures and change or cancellation without notice or liability. Everglades Safari Park is subject to seasonal and weather closures.

If you have been looking for an official boat tour of the Everglades National Park, look no further. Everglades Safari Park is an authorized Everglades National Park concession. We are the safest choice for your family as we adhere to strict National Park guidelines. Safari Airboat Tours have educated millions of visitors about the Everglades since 1968. Stick with the professional Everglades Tour. Buy your tickets now for Everglades Safari Park now! This tour departs about every 20-30 minutes. There is no need to make a reservation; you may buy a ticket when you arrive and leave on the next available boat.

Private Eco-Adventure Tour

The 40 Minute Private Eco-Adventure Tour Starts at $313, each additional passenger is $8 for up to 4, $58 each additional passenger. The Wildlife Nature Show and Walking Jungle Trail is included in your tour. Wow!

Journey into nature's secretly preserved wilderness made up of 1.4 million acres of grasslands and hardwood hammocks aboard Everglades Safari Park private airboat rides. This thrilling airboat ride takes you to the legendary Everglades National Park, recognized as the most unique ecosystem. Our professional tour guides will guide you through this natural wonder where you will encounter lush vegetation and tranquility. You will be amidst alligators, native flora and fauna & other exotic wildlife in their habitat as you thrust through this River of Grass.

Private Jungle of Wilderness Tour

The 60 Minute Private Eco-Adventure Tour starts at $363 each additional passenger is $8 for up to 4, $78 each additional passenger. The Wildlife Nature Show and Walking Jungle Trail is included in your tour. Wow!

Journey deep into nature's mysterious wilderness through an intricate River of Grass system aboard your own Safari airboat. A professional tour guide will narrate your trip as you maneuver through this secretly preserved jungle of wilderness. Experience breathtaking panoramic views as you visit the Everglades National Park with stops on levees along the way. You may encounter alligators, turtles, deer, wild hogs, raccoons, native flora and fauna & other exotic wildlife as you glide through the Everglades' lush vegetation and tranquility. This trip is simply amazing!

The 60 Minute Private Eco-Adventure Tour starts at $363, each additional passenger is $8 for up to 4, $78 each additional passenger. The Wildlife Nature Show and Walking Jungle Trail is included in your tour. Wow!

Searching For The Perfect Deal? Look no further!

We offer various discounts to make your Everglades National Park experience more memorable and less stressful on your wallet.

On Vacation & Need A Ride? We Can Help!

We have partnered with the top transportation companies in Miami to provide you reliable service to and from our park, from select locations.

Top 7 Things to do in the Everglades

If you ask anyone about the Everglades, they will most probably say that it is the greatest swamp in Florida. They are close but not exactly right! It is a slow-running river that entails around nine contrasting, elegant ecosystems.

History of Airboats

In 1930, airboats started becoming popular in the United States. Many Floridians made them famously known when they began to invent them independently, these Floridians mostly lived in or near the Florida Everglades.

Ultimate Guide: Animals of the Everglades

Did you know the Florida Everglades sustains a unique environment that provides safe refuge to the wildlife that inhabits the wetlands, some of which are not found anywhere else in the world? This guide tells you all about them!

The Ultimate Guide to Everglades National Park

With so much to do in South Florida, it’s easy to miss the adventure that can be found in our very own backyard. In this article, we will shed light on one of the hidden gems often overlooked by visitors and residents alike; the Florida Everglades.

Park Information

Tour information, things to do in miami, navigation & more, want safari deals.

Number of Children (10-15) travelling?

(Must present a valid National Park Pass to enter the park.)

Experience more of the Everglades at Wooten's!

Glide across 259 private acres on a grassland airboat tour

Get a chance to see wild alligators, birds & more

Stay safe and comfortable 

See alligators & animals up close

Hold a baby alligator

Have fun learning with friends & family

Take home gifts and memories

Everglades National Park Boat Tours

Grassland & National Park Combo

Ten thousand islands boat tour, popular airboat combos.

Combine multiple tours for a complete Everglades experience!

• Original Combo

• Extended Combo

• Total Everglades Combo

Popular Airboat Tours

Book a tour and get our Animal Sanctuary & Alligator Park included!

• Grassland Airboat Tour

• Extended Airboat Tour

• Private Airboat Tour

3 Attractions Included with All Our Tours

When you book direct.

Animal Sanctuary

Alligator Show

Hug an Alligator

Why choose wooten's.

Local Roots

Most of our team grew up in the Everglades and they all look forward to sharing their passion for the water and wildlife with you!

Safety & Experience

Our safe, experienced captains are licensed by the Coast Guard, and our boats are regularly maintained.

Alligators & Animals

You'll definitely see alligators and other animals in our sanctuary, and you might even see wild ones on your tour!

Quietest & Comfiest

Our custom airboats are the quietest and most comfortable they've ever been, with a ride just as thrilling.

A Timeless Classic

Wooten's has a long history of delighting customers since 1953!

Refreshments & Gifts

Buy refreshments and take Everglades gifts and souvenirs home with you.

Guests Love Us!

"What an amazing day! Airboat ride and swamp buggy were so great! Got to see the Everglades, a lot of gators, bear tracks, birds and vultures. Staff was friendly and accommodating. They knew a great deal about the animals in the area and answered a lot of questions. I highly recommend!"

—S. from North Carolina

"The airboat was a thrilling ride and we saw a lot of alligators! The swamp buggy was fun and fascinating. This is definitely the place to go to check off your bucket list. Everyone working there was friendly and gave us a great time! I would definitely do this again."

—L. from Florida

—C.Z.

"We sat in the front row for the airboat tour and it was so much fun. The captain was very knowledgeable with a sense of humor. Seeing the alligators and holding them was something I never thought I would get to do!"

—S. from Massachusetts

• Grassland & National Park Combo
• Private Combo
• Kayak Airboat Combo
• Swamp Buggy Tour
• Animal Sanctuary & Alligator Park
• Lodging Nearby
• Stay & Play Adventure
• Large Group Grassland Airboat Tour
• Large Group Original Combo
• Students & Field Trips
• Online Gift Shop
• Gift Cards for Tours
• Shipping, Tax & Returns

Everglades Airboat Tours

Ride an iconic airboat and see the local wildlife.

• $1 Online Discount!
• Free Parking
• Hour Glass 40 minutes
• User All Ages
• Map Marker Weston, FL

Airboat Adventure General Admission

Sawgrass recreation park.

Feel the excitement and learn the history of the Everglades. Includes Airboat Adventure, Exhibit Entrances (Reptile, Glades Exhibit, and Exotic Wildlife), and Ear Protection and there is no charge for parking.

• Includes pick up and drop off in Miami
• Hour Glass 5 hours

Everglades Airboat Tour

System shuttle and tours.

This tour takes you on a visit to the largest remaining swamp land in the world. The Everglades Park was named World Heritage Site, a biosphere reserve and wetland of international interest.

• INCLUDES PICK UP AND DROP OFF IN MIAMI
• Hour Glass 5 - 6 hours
• User Ages 2+

Everglades Airboat & Wildlife Show with Miami Pickup

Us2u destination services in america.

Capture the wild spirit of the Florida Everglades with this tour from Miami. Explore the Everglades on an airboat, operated by an engine and aircraft propeller. English or Spanish guide on the bus, English speaking park ranger on the boat.

The Most Exciting Way to Discover the Everglades

When you think of the Everglades, you probably imagine the iconic airboats that zip through the wetlands.

An airboat tour is the most exciting way to discover Everglades National Park, allowing you to take in the stunning sights and spot impressive wildlife along the way.

Not only are airboats thrilling to ride, but they’re also eco-friendly, protecting this vital habitat that is home to rare species. You can’t skip an airboat ride when visiting the Everglades!

The Ultimate Everglades Experience

With its wetlands, swamps, forests, and mangroves, Everglades National Park is full of natural wonders and unique wildlife, including alligators, manatees, birds, turtles, and more. This national park is one-of-a-kind, and there’s no better way to discover it than on an eco-friendly airboat tour . See more of the park as you travel quickly and safely across the water with an experienced captain who shares their knowledge about the ecosystem and its inhabitants.

As you ride on an exciting open-air boat , take in the beautiful surroundings, learn about the local wildlife, and keep your eyes peeled for large alligators! Everyone in the family is sure to have a great time, from young naturalists to seasoned adventurers. Feel the wild spirit of the Everglades as you discover what makes this national park so fascinating and why it’s so important to protect it.

Come enjoy the ultimate Everglades National Park experience with the whole family! Browse through our airboat tours , including private rides and half-day tours , and book yours online today . It’s a day you’ll never forget!

Explore More Things to Do in Everglades National Park

Everglades alligator tours.

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Everglades Tours from Miami

Everglades tours & activities.

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11 Best Everglades Airboat Tours Worth The Money

December 9, 2020 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you looking for the best Everglades Airboat Tours? We have you covered with our list of the best tours worth your money!

The Everglades National Park is a 1.5 million-acre wetland located in southern Florida. Compared to a swamp the Everglades is comprised of mangroves, and sawgrass marshes and is home to alligators , birds and other species.

An Airboat Tour of the Everglades is a great way to view areas of the Everglades inaccessible by those on land. Whether you are looking for private tours, small group tours, nighttime moonlight tours, or tours that come with adventure wildlife parks, tours with lunch or tours with pick up and drop off we have you covered with this list!

We have discovered the best tours leaving from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Naples , Sanibel, Fort Myers and Orlando and Kissimmee . Whether looking for a quick 30 minutes of the best Everglades Airboat Tours to half-day and full-day adventure. Just make sure to pack sunscreen, bug spray and some water!

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida

This is one of the best Everglades Airboat tours for those wanting options. The Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida explores Central Florida’s Everglades and leaves out of Orlando.

You will get to experience either a 30 minute airboat ride or one hour airboat ride through over 4200 acres of protected Everglades swamps, rivers and marshes.

If you choose the half day package your package includes a visit to the Wildlife Park spread over 13 acres where you can see animals like zebras, bobcats, lemurs, sloths, tropical bird aviary and an alligator handling show.

If looking for an Everglades Airboat tour with lunch you will want to book the half-day tour. This tour comes with a delicious BBQ lunch at the Chomp House Grill and an alligator souvenir and picture.

Book Now: 30 Minute Airboat Ride

Book Now: 1 Hour Airboat Ride

Book Now: Half day Package

Everglades Airboat Tour & Gator Boys

The Everglades Airboat Tour & Gator Boys Alligator Rescue Show is one of the best Everglades airboat tours from Fort Lauderdale. Here at the Everglades Holiday Park Fort Lauderdale, your tour includes a 1 hour narrated Airboat ride and then a 15 minute live alligator rescue show! Tours depart every 20 minutes. And the tour takes about an hour and half.

Not only will you see alligators and birds on the Airboat Tour you will see unique flora and fauna along the ride. Enjoy the unique ecosystem up close and personal from the airboat as you spot alligators in their natural habitat and learn about the importance of conversation and preservation of the Everglades.

The Gator Boys have appeared on Animal Planet and provide and informative and entertaining live rescue show. After you will also receive two pictures from your day!

Book Now: 1 Hour Airboat Tour and Live Show

Airboat Tour Central Florida

The Airboat Tour of Central Florida is one of the best airboat rides in the Everglades for those looking for small groups. Tours are limited to only 6 guests and seating is in a stadium style on the boat so everyone has great views.

This tour leaves from Kissimmee and includes a guided airboat tour with live commentary. Your small group will explore the Everglades swamp keeping a lookout for alligators in their nesting areas in West Lake Toho.

Tours leave at 9 am, 11 am and 1 pm.

Book Now: 90 minute Airboat Tour

Full-Day Everglades Naturalist-Led Adventure

If you are looking for a Full-Day tour, this is one of the best Everglades airboat tours near Miami . What makes the Full Day Everglades Naturalist led adventure unique is this tour is a full day package! There is also a half day option!

First, the tour offers complimentary pickup from hotels in Miami, Hollywood or Fort Lauderdale. Then you will be on your way to explore the Everglades National Park with a master naturalist where you will take a hour long airboat ride through the river of Grass to see alligators up close in Shark Valley.

Next on the tour you will take an hour long cruise to the Ten Thousand Islands a salt water area of the Everglades where you can often spot manatees, birds, dolphins and more.

Then you will experience a visit to a Native tree island village ( Miccouskee) that once serves as a historic trading post, and finally a wildlife spotting tour on Big Cyprus and then it is onto lunch at the Havana Cafe.

The lunch as both vegetarian and gluten free options in addition to the traditional menu. Snacks, fresh fruit, water, and soft drinks also offered during the tour.

There is a hotel pickup and even a dedicated airport drop off perfect for those looking for an interesting tour their day of departure. They will hold your luggage and offer guests the complete experience with bug spray, sunscreen, ponchos, binoculars, and a eco-canteen and a National Parks map! This is the best Everglades airport tours near Miami!

Book Now: Full Day Adventure

Book Now: Half Day Tour

Florida Everglades Night Airboat Tour

Are you looking to take an airboat tour through the Everglades at night? If so, the Florida Everglades Night Airboat Tour departing from Fort Lauderdale is for you! The tour departs at 8:30 PM from the Sawgrass Recreational Park.

With your ticket you also receive admission to the Sawgrass Recreation Park open during the day where you can see reptiles and exotic animals at the Wildlife center.

Your airboat tour will take place under the stars of the sky as you glide across the Everglades at up to 40 miles per hour using the lights from the airboat to spot alligators.

Book Now: 1 hour Nighttime Airboat Ride

Everglades VIP Tour and Show

The Everglades VIP tour and Show provides transportation to and from select hotels in the Fort Lauderdale Area as well as the Miami or Fort Lauderdale airports and both the Port Everglades and Port of Miami. The tour is about 4 hours long with transportation time included.

There are two VIP tour options offered one in the morning at 8:30 am and one in the afternoon at 1 pm. After being picked up you will begin your tour on an hour long airboat tour with in-depth commentary through the Everglades. The guides will explain the eco-system as well as the behaviorof the alligators.

Once you return you will be treated to a live in person presentation by the Gator Boys alligator rescue team. The show is both informative and entertaining!

After the show you may take a picture with one of the baby alligators where you will be given a little keepsake of your day spent exploring the Everglades and learning about alligators.

Book Now: 1 hour Airboat Ride and Pick Up

Private Tour: Florida Everglades Airboat Ride and Wildlife Adventure

If you are looking for a private tour this is one of the best Everglades boat tours! For those looking for a premium experience you will have the airboat all to yourself with just your group!

On this Private Tour of Florida’s Everglades Airboat Ride and Wildlife Adventure , you will travel deep into the Everglades National Park and explore wildlife refuge at the Sawgrass Recreational Park. As this is a private ride the goal is show areas of the Everglades normal boat tours don’t reach and with a smaller airboat it is easily manuverable into smaller areas!

Guests can expect the tour to be a little longer and more in-depth with Airboat speeds reaching up to 40 miles per hour! At the refuge you can see panthers, bobcats, leopards, alligators and other like fish, snakes, and turtles up close.

Book Now: Private 60 minute Airboat Tour

Air Boat Tour of Palm Beach in The Swamp Monster

If you are in the Palm Beach area and are looking for one of the best Everglades airboat tours from Palm Beach this is the tour for you! On this tour you will take a private airboat tour on the Swamp Monster boat with individual seats!

The tour guide is very informative about the Everglades ecosystem and plants as well as knowledgable about the wildlife you will encounter on the airboat tour. You can often spot turtles, herons, storks and an assortment of birds.

Sometimes you even spot an area of an old plane wreckage depending on how far into the Everglades the tour takes you.

Book Now: Private Airboat Tour

Everglades Day Safari from Fort Myers, Naples or Sanibel

If you are looking for one of the best Everglades airboat tours from Fort Myers you are in luck! The Everglades Day Safari from Fort Myers, Naples or Sanibel offers a guided tour with a naturalist. This eco-tour offers a wildlife drive, hour long airboat ride and boat cruise, lunch and a nature walk.

On this 45 minute airboat tour highlights include seeing wildlife such as dolphins, alligators, herons and more. You will be given a full history of the wildlife, geology, and Native American history as well.

Then you will take a wildlife drive through Big Cypress National Preserve where you can see gators, deer, bear, hogs, turtles, birds and more. Next, you will take a wildlife walk through the ancient towering cypress trees. It is truly one of the best Everglades boat tours from Naples!

After an afternoon break you will be served lunch at a beautiful waterside restaurant in the Everglades. You must try the alligator appetizers! After lunch you will board another boat cruise fora 60 minute tour of the mangroves at 10,000 islands. You can spot manatees here!

Book Here: Everglades Day Tour

Miami Beach Miccosukee Village and Everglades Airboat Tour

The Miami Beach Miccosukee Village and Everglades Airboat Tour is a small group tour. Pickup is included from any Miami Beach landmark or hotel along Collins Avenue.

On your small group airboat tour you will discover the wildlife in the Everglades with tours offered in English, German and Spanish. You will have the oppurtunity to discover the unique eco-system of the Everglades alongside viewing wildlife like turtles, alligators and birds.

After the airboat tour you can visit the nearby wildlife park and learn about conservation efforts in the Everglades. Next, you will visit the Miccosukee Indian Village and Reservation where you can learn about the history and culture of the tribe. View handcrafts, photographs and more.

Book Now: Miami Beach Airboat Tour

Biscayne Bay Cruise and Everglades Airboat Ride

If you are ready to explore Miami by bus, boat and airboat this full day guided sightseeing adventure is for you. From the bus ride around Miami, to the Biscayne Bay, Miami Beach to the airboat ride through the Everglades this tour is for you.

Pickup begins at 10:15 am for this 6 hour full day tour. First you a picked up and then depart on a 30 minute airboat ride though the Everglades. You will view wildlife such as fish, birds, alligators and more.

Next your tour will take you on a jungle trail with crocodile exhibits and a live alligator wildlife show. Then you will board a 90 minute cruise along Biscayne Bay. The cruise takes you along the skyline of Miami Beach and Fisher Island, keep an eye out for manatees, dolphins and rays in the clear water off the coast.

Book: Everglades and Biscayne Bay

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Florida (FL) » 15 Best Everglades Airboat Tours

15 Best Everglades Airboat Tours

The Everglades are an amazing ecosystem full of wetlands, forests, and mangroves, and the rich habitat is home to a plethora of wildlife that includes alligators, turtles, manatees and more. The best way to explore this unique environment is by airboat; shooting around the waterways while taking in the breathtaking views will certainly live long in the memory.

A fascinating place, the expansive Everglades are located in Florida and are well worth a visit if you are staying in Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Loads of operators offer airboat tours of the wetlands, so, to help give you an idea of what is available to you, here are some of the best Everglades Airboat Tours for you to enjoy.

1. Everglades 5-Hour Alligator and Airboat Tour

An overwhelmingly popular tour, this excursion takes you cruising around the stunning Everglades on an airboat on the lookout for fearsome alligators.

The Everglades National Park is absolutely beautiful to travel around; your professional guide will tell you all about the wild and wonderful wetlands on show.

After an exhilarating ride, you can enjoy an educational alligator show and even touch or pick up a baby alligator. With lots of interesting displays and exhibits on offer, you’ll certainly come away with a newfound appreciation for this marvelous eco-system and the creatures that inhabit it.

2. Everglades Airboat Ride + Wildlife Show at Gator Park

This half-day tour is a fantastic way to experience the Everglades. You are whisked around the waterways on an airboat and the ride is certainly invigorating as you skip over the water.

Home to alligators, turtles, and a plethora of different birds, the Everglades National Park is the perfect place to spot wildlife and the scenery on show is absolutely spectacular.

Having enjoyed your thrilling ride, the tour then takes you to Gator Park, where you’ll see lots of fantastic creatures, exotic birds, and a whole menagerie of snakes, fish, and reptiles.

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3. Best of the Everglades Small Group Eco-Tour

Starting out from Miami Beach, this eco-tour takes you to the Everglades National Park, one of the largest in the United States – you certainly won’t forget the experience anytime soon.

Cruising around the spectacular wetlands on an airboat is a marvelous way to get about the beautiful waterways and you’ll be amazed at all the wildlife that you pass by.

In addition to this, you also get to watch the interesting and informative alligator show and can also choose to visit a nearby Native American Reservation, where you can learn about their history, daily lives and rich cultural heritage.

4. Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

A thrilling experience, riding around the Everglades on an airboat is great fun and visitors invariably come away impressed and astounded at all that they’ve seen and done.

With an expert guide to tell you all about the Everglades and the creatures that inhabit the ecosystem, you’ll learn a lot about the alligators, turtles and wealth of wildlife that live in the wetlands.

The Wildlife and Alligator Show is also included on the tour and visitors can opt to hold a baby alligator if they’re feeling adventurous enough.

5. From Miami: Florida Everglades Small Group Airboat Tour

Shooting around the Florida Everglades on an airboat is a captivating experience and this tour comes highly recommended by everyone that has been on it.

Having set out from Miami, you then take to the waterways and explore this unique habitat by airboat; the views on offer are remarkable.

With a professional pilot to take you around, you’ll learn loads about the natural habitat and may even get to catch a glimpse of alligators and turtles as they hide amidst the fauna and flora.

6. Everglades National Park: 3.5-Hour Adventure Tour

A memorable day out, this 3.5-hour adventure tour will leave you raving about all the spectacular scenery and interesting animals that you see over the course of the excursion.

The highlight is the invigorating airboat ride which whisks you around the Everglades National Park. The expert guides will tell you all that there is to know about this special ecosystem.

The tour culminates in an entertaining and informative Wildlife Show where you’ll get to see alligators; you can even have your picture taken with a baby alligator and hold one if you want.

7. Miami Everglades Park Airboat Tour and Biscayne Bay Cruise

Starting off from Miami, this fun excursion takes you around the amazing Everglades National Park on an airboat and the scenery on show is breathtaking.

With alligators popping up here and there and a plethora of birds flying high in the sky, there is loads to see and your guide will teach you all about the wetlands’ fauna and flora.

After your airboat ride, it is time to take a cruise around the scenic Biscayne Bay; the views of Miami will certainly live long in the memory such is the splendor of the city’s skyline.

8. 30-Minute Everglades Airboat Tour with Exhibit Entrance

Accompanied by an experienced captain, your airboat ride around the Florida Everglades will whisk by and you’ll be astounded at all the beautiful nature and wonderful wildlife.

Once you set foot upon firm ground again, you will head to the Reptile Exhibit, where you can learn all about the creatures that inhabit the wetlands and even touch a baby alligator if you feel so inclined.

Highly rated by those who have been on it, this tour will take you up close and personal to some of the Everglades’ endangered wildlife and you’ll certainly come away having learned a lot about this beautiful part of the globe.

9. The Everglades and Miami Double Decker Bus Tour

If exploring the beautiful Everglades wasn’t enough, this tour also takes you around the best of what Miami has to offer. The double-decker bus journey will take you past all the city’s main sights.

The Everglades National Park is mesmerizing to explore by airboat and the ride around the waterways is thrilling as you pass by submerged alligators and playful otters.

After watching the Wildlife Show, it is time to head to Miami; the bus tour with its fantastic audio commentary will take you to such famous sights as Coconut Grove, Little Havana, and Miami Beach.

10. Everglades Day Safari from Sanibel, Fort Myers & Naples

Once you have been picked up from either Sanibel, Fort Myers, or Naples, you are all set to have an unforgettable day exploring the majestic Everglades National Park.

Shooting around the spectacular waterways on an airboat is an exhilarating experience and you’re sure to see loads of amazing wildlife and beautiful fauna and flora.

With a cruise around the 10,000 Islands also included, you are very likely to see manatees, dolphins, and more. The tour also includes a visit to the Big Cypress National Preserve which features incredible landscapes. One of the most comprehensive tours; this one is not to be missed.

11. Everglades Adventure Tour and Airboat Ride

A wonderful day trip from Miami, this adventure tour around the Everglades National Park is a great option if you are looking to escape the city and see some of Florida’s impressive natural sights.

The Everglades are captivating to explore and the airboat ride is great fun. You’ll see alligators, turtles, and otters popping up here and there.

With a Wildlife Show also included, you’ll learn loads about this amazing ecosystem and the wonderful wildlife that inhabits it.

12. Everglades Day Safari from Fort Lauderdale

After setting out from Fort Lauderdale, this tour takes you around the stupendous Everglades in Florida. The scenery is stunning as you zip around the wetlands on an airboat.

With an expert guide on hand to tell you all about the sights you see, you’ll come away having learned a lot about the fauna and flora before you, as well as the endangered wildlife that lives in this special ecosystem.

The Wildlife Show is entertaining and informative and you’ll be amazed at all the reptiles and alligators.

13. Triple Combo: Everglades, Miami Bus Tour, and Yacht Tour

A great combo deal, this tour takes you around the stunning Everglades before you hop on a double-decker bus tour around Miami. The day culminates with a delightful yacht tour of Millionaire’s Row.

Just one of the many highlights, the airboat trip around the Everglades is great fun and the Wildlife Show afterward will teach you all about the animals that reside within the park.

The bus tour of Miami takes you past many of the city’s most famous sights and the relaxing yacht tour is the perfect way to end a jam-packed day of activities.

14. Everglades Indian Reservation Daytime Safari

An interesting and informative day out, this fantastic tour sees you cruise around the incredible Everglades National Park and visit the Seminole Tribe Reservation.

The airboat ride around the park is exhilarating as you shoot around the waterways, taking in all the beautiful scenery. There are lots of animals to spot and a plethora of birds above you in the blue sky.

At the Seminole Tribe Reservation, you’ll learn about their rich cultural heritage and daily lives and you’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for their culture and history.

15. Everglades: Airboat Ride & Nature Walk w/a Naturalist

With an expert guide on hand, you’ll get to see lots of wildlife up close and personal; your voyage through the Everglades is sure to live long in the memory.

Cruising around the wonderful wetlands on an airboat is loads of fun. Your guide will point out any alligators and turtles you come across while teaching you all that there is to know about this amazing landscape.

After your airboat adventure, it is time to visit the Miccosukee Indian Village, where you’ll learn about their traditions, way of life, and rich history.

15 Best Everglades Airboat Tours:

• Everglades 5-Hour Alligator and Airboat Tour
• Everglades Airboat Ride + Wildlife Show at Gator Park
• Best of the Everglades Small Group Eco-Tour
• Everglades National Park Airboat Tour
• From Miami: Florida Everglades Small Group Airboat Tour
• Everglades National Park: 3.5-Hour Adventure Tour
• Miami Everglades Park Airboat Tour and Biscayne Bay Cruise
• 30-Minute Everglades Airboat Tour with Exhibit Entrance
• The Everglades and Miami Double Decker Bus Tour
• Everglades Day Safari from Sanibel, Fort Myers & Naples
• Everglades Adventure Tour and Airboat Ride
• Everglades Day Safari from Fort Lauderdale
• Triple Combo: Everglades, Miami Bus Tour, and Yacht Tour
• Everglades Indian Reservation Daytime Safari
• Everglades: Airboat Ride & Nature Walk w/a Naturalist

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Everglades National Park | AIRBOAT TOURS

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Airboat ride into Everglades National Park

What’s a trip to Everglades National Park without an airboat ride? There probably aren’t many people who don’t conjure up an image of airboats when the park is mentioned, plus airboats are one of the only ways to get out into the environment that is at the heart of what the Everglades is all about—the river of grass. This refers to what is essentially a prairie, but one with a very slow moving and shallow sheet of water on it, in most places less than two feet deep. The water comes mainly from Lake Okeechobee, but rain also adds to the volume. Airboats were created to glide across this very shallow water, but even they can get stuck if the water level gets too low.

River of grass, part of Everglades National Park

Canal leads from an airboat dock out into the grassland area of Everglades National Park

The airboat tourist industry started when the Tamiami Trail (Hwy 41) was built back in the 1920s. The locals used airboats to get around for fishing and hunting, and when tourists started coming through the area and saw the boats, they wanted a ride. Today, the only place in Everglades National Park to ride in an airboat is at Shark Valley , which is bordered by the Tamiami Trail in the northwest corner of the park.

Airboat tour companies located on the northern side of the highway (westbound lane) launch into Water Conservation Area 3A. Though still the same “river of grass,” this is outside the Everglades National Park boundary. There are four airboat companies on the north side of the highway and all are Indian owned. On the southern side of the highway (eastbound lane), all tour companies launch into Everglades National Park. There are three of these companies: Coopertown Airboat , Everglades Safari Park , and Gator Park . All are authorized by the National Park Service to operate tours within the park, and they are the only companies authorized to do so.

As a stickler for writing about the National Parks, I chose one of the companies that ran tours in the actual park, Coopertown Airboats. The company was the first to run airboat tours in the Everglades, and that’s not per Coopertown propaganda but per a wayside exhibit on airboats at the Shark Valley Visitor Center . I’m not here to endorse them, but the service was fine, and I’m sure the rest of the companies in the area offer the same thing. All excel in separating tourists from their money, so expect alligator zoos, restaurants, and other attractions in addition to the rides.

Coopertown Airboats in the Everglades

The Coopertown tour lasts 45 minutes and ventures about two miles into the Everglades. It is more than just a joy ride. The guide operating the boat stops to talk about the animals and the surrounding environment. His seat is up high so he can see the alligators and birds and will stop so everyone can get a look.

Flock of white ibis in Everglades National Park scatters as the airboat approaches

The boat has wide bench seats, so unless you get a seat on the end, you aren’t going to be able to take any photos. I’m not even sure if you can see that well if you end up in the middle of the boat. During the winter tourist season the tours are booked solid all day long, so don’t put too much hope into getting an empty boat. Either be the first one on to get to the far side of the boat or lollygag so you are the last one on and seated at the end next to the dock. A front seat would be nice, but there is a window to protect people from spray, so you have to shoot out of what is more than likely to be dirty and scratched Plexiglas. The boat does spin around so that everyone can see the area once it gets out to the grasslands, and you can get photos then.

Airboat seats

Canal from near the Tamiami Trail that runs into the Everglades

Mangroves and water lilies in the grasslands of Everglades National Park

Ironically, there is very little of the Everglades National Park that is open to airboats, and if the National Park Service had its way, the airboat rides would cease to exist. The Shark Valley Area was only added to the park in 1989. A handful of airboat companies had been operating there for fifty or more years, and those in business got to stay in business. No new companies will ever open.

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Everglades Airboat Excursions

Florida Everglades Airboat Tours

Explore the Everglades like never before!

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Two-Hour Day Tour

Everglades Airboat Excursions offers a unique two-hour tour through the Florida Everglades for the true adventurer.

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One-Hour Day Tour

Spend an hour exploring the “River of Grass” on a Florida Everglades tour with an experienced captain who calls the area home.

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90 Minute Day Tour

Join us for an exhilarating one and a half hour airboat tour through the captivating Everglades, where nature’s wonders come alive! As you embark on this thrilling adventure, prepare to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.

Sunset Airboat Tour

Experience the Everglades in a new light as the sun goes down over the “River of Grass.” This sunset airboat tour is unforgettable!

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Red Eye Gator Tour

Gator Encounters up close. The best way to see alligators up close is at night. The gators can’t see us because they are blinded by our lights so we can get safely close to them for great pictures. We can see more gators at night than during the day because we can spot their eyes reflecting from the cover of the grass. The journey will be 20-40 miles long. Come see the Everglades in a different ‘dark’.

Everglades Airboat Tours

The Everglades, which is approximately 100 miles long and 60 miles wide, is a slow-moving river and the largest subtropical wetland ecosystem in North America. The Seminole Tribe gave the large body of water the name Okeechobee meaning “River of Grass” to describe the sawgrass marshes which are part of a complex system of interdependent ecosystems. On this airboat tour, you will learn more amazing facts about the Everglades from someone who calls it home. We will navigate the natural waterways to find a range of Florida wildlife including alligators, turtles, sea birds and much more! Come explore the world’s wetland treasure with Captain Gerald!

Wheelchair Accessible Airboat

Experience the thrill of an airboat ride through the untamed wilderness aboard our wheelchair-accessible airboat. Our specially designed vessel ensures that everyone can savor the beauty of the Everglades without limitations. Glide effortlessly through the waterways, witness stunning wildlife, and make cherished memories—all while enjoying inclusive accessibility. Join us for an adventure where nature knows no bounds, and the whole family can revel in the magic of the Everglades.

Seasonal Experiences

Explore the Everglades through immersive seasonal tours that unveil the diverse wonders of this captivating ecosystem. Each season offers a distinct and enchanting experience, providing nature enthusiasts with unique opportunities to discover the beauty of the Everglades.

Whether you’re an avid angler, a dedicated bird watcher, or simply seeking the solace of nature, the Everglades’ seasonal activities promise a tapestry of experiences that showcase the resilience and beauty of this unique ecosystem.

Spring Discovery

As the temperatures rise from a short winter, spring in the Everglades beckons with a symphony of bird songs and the gentle rustle of newly sprouting foliage. Join us for a tranquil bird-watching adventure, where migratory birds like the roseate spoonbill, ibis, and herons make their grand return.

Summer Night Safari

As the sun sets and the humidity lingers in the summer air, the Everglades transform into a magical realm best explored during the coolness of the night. Set out on a captivating night fishing expedition, where the waters come alive with the elusive sounds of alligators, frogs, and nocturnal creatures.

Autumn Eco-Adventure

As autumn descends upon the Everglades, the landscape takes on a golden hue, and the wildlife becomes more active. This season marks the ideal time for freshwater fishing, with bass and panfish thriving in the interconnected waterways.

Winter Wonder

In the winter months, the Everglades offer a reprieve from the chillier temperatures experienced elsewhere. Witness the spectacle of migratory birds, including majestic red shoulder hawks and graceful ospreys, as they make the Everglades their seasonal home. Bird watchers can delight in the sight of flocks soaring across the expansive skies, creating a breathtaking tableau against the backdrop of the serene marshes.

Get to know the captain!

I was born in Fort Myers, Florida in 1944 on Broadway St. in a second-floor apartment above a Mom and Pop store. I’ve always enjoyed nature, so it is fitting that I am retired and living with nature at it’s best.

I now live deep in the Everglades of Florida in a cabin nestled within a “tree island”. I built the two-story cabin from the ground up after it burned down from a lightning strike in late 2000. I was introduced to airboats some 47 years ago in Central Florida and later discovered the Florida Everglades that became a major attraction to me. I have been conducting tours for more than 11 years now and after doing tours for many other companies I am proud to now be leading tours myself under my own business.

My rides include a 30-35 mile ride with many Everglades sightings. My cabin was started in 1953 and I upgraded it a bit upon the rebuild. It has a man-made island that took some 50 years to build with shovels and wheelbarrows.

You can follow me on my Facebook page at Old Glory Camp. I keep busy with many projects such as tours, authorized alligator hunts for teens, veteran events, conservation and re-establishment of turtles in this area known as “2A”, and much more. Search Old Glory Camp for more information.

Everglades Excursions & Tours

Embark on one in a lifetime adventure through the Everglades! See alligators, ride an airboat and more. Let our experienced tour guides show you the mystery and ecology of the Everglades on your own private excursion. Learn about the four Eco-Systems and precious wildlife that thrive in this area.

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Let our experienced tour guides show you the mystery and ecology of the Everglades on your own private excursion. Learn about the four Eco-Systems and precious wildlife that thrive in this area.

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Touring the florida everglades by airboat.

By Dalia Colón

You can paddle, walk and even bike through various parts of The Florida Everglades .

But there’s nothing like the sensation of an airboat ride: the excitement of the propellered engine revving like a motorcycle, the airplane-like buzzing of the boat at full speed, the jarring, delicious silence when the driver cuts the engine as the boat glides along what Marjorie Stoneman Douglas nicknamed the River of Grass .

Whether it’s your first time on the water or you’ve sailed around the world, an airboat ride through the Everglades is like nothing you’ve ever experienced.

“There’s really nowhere else in the world like here,” said airboat tour guide Jack Blanco of Coopertown Airboats . “It’s something you’d have to see for yourself.”

Companies offer large-group of private tours. Some airboats aren’t much larger than a minivan, while others hold dozens of passengers.

After you settle into your seat, the engine will rev up like an airplane ready for takeoff.

What to Expect

“You’re going at a pretty fast speed, and the noise of the boat does stir up the wildlife,” said Allyson Gantt, chief of communications and PR for Everglades and Dry Tortugas national parks.

Creatures from birds and turtles to deer and yes, alligators , will likely peek out to see who or what has caused all the ruckus.

“It’s very rare, but if you’re a lucky group, you might get to see river otters,” Miccosukee descendant Alex Tigertail, manager of Tigertail Airboat Tours , said. But he cautions riders to calibrate their expectations. “You can’t really guarantee anything in nature.”

That said, an experienced tour guide will know where the gators and other bucket-list animals hang out; he or she will cut the airboat’s engine to allow for photo ops, leaving you gliding in blissful silence.

“The most significant sensation is gliding over the water,” Gantt said. “It feels different than being on a regular boat.”

This calm affords you an opportunity to savor the breeze and to notice the nuances of nature that surround you: the carpetlike sawgrass prairie, the majesty of the cypress trees, the spatterdock floating atop of the water like lily pads in a children’s book illustration.

The speed and the stillness. The intense wind and the gentle breeze. Ominous alligator scales and the cotton candy pink of the roseate spoonbill. It will all leave you in childlike wonder.

“The Everglades is just an amazing place,” Gantt said. “There’s always more for people to learn about it. To me, it’s fascinating to learn how everything is connected in the web of life.”

What to Bring

Ear protection: Airboats can reach noise levels upwards of 100 decibels. “It is definitely loud. For that reason, we do supply our customers with hearing protection,” said Jack Blanco, tour guide at Coopertown Airboats . If your tour company of choice doesn’t provide protection, bring earplugs or protective muffs, especially for children.

Wind protection: “It also is windy,” Blanco noted. “It’ll make a hot day feel a little cooler or a cold day feel colder.” Airboats cruise around 35 miles per hour, and with nothing shielding you from the wind, consider tying a jacket around your waist in case you get chilly. In addition, sunglasses can double as wind protection for your eyes. And guests with long tresses should bring a hair tie.

Sensible shoes: You’ll be walking on a slippery dock to get to the boat.

Bug spray: Insect repellant will help keep pests away when the boat is drifting. But once the boat takes off, you’ll leave mosquitoes in the dust. “If you can find a mosquito that flies at 35 miles per hour, you let me know,” Blanco joked.

Take a Ride

Ready to catch some air? Check out some favorite Florida Everglades airboat tours.

Central Florida

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures , Kissimmee: South Florida gets all the glory, but you can experience the wetlands and wildlife of the headwaters of the Everglades in Orlando’s backyard with Boggy Creek. The attraction is complete with a 70-foot mine, Native American village replica, and BBQ eatery.

Kissimmee Swamp Tours , Vero Beach: This tour operates out of Middleton’s Fish Camp Too on Lake Kissimmee, so unlike many Central Florida airboat companies, it’s untouched by urban sprawl. Keep your eyes peeled for whooping cranes, deer, wild pigs and of course, gators.

Wild Florida , Kenansville: Part airboat company, part adventure park, Wild Florida showcases the headwaters of the Everglades on their tours, rounding out the fun with a drive-through safari, animal shows and encounters, a petting zoo, and swamp delicacies at the Chomp House Grill.

Capt. Duke’s Airboat Rides , Christmas: Capt. Duke’s invites you and your gang to climb aboard one of their private airboats for a jaunt into the Central Florida Everglades, a thrilling experience that will get you up-close and personal with alligators—and perhaps snakes, bobcats, raccoons, and bald eagles.

Wild Willy’s Airboat Tours , St. Cloud: Wild Willy’s promises their jungle isn’t concrete, but the real deal, complete with enormous alligators, soaring Bald Eagles and the endangered snail kite. Glide across the headwaters of the Everglades in their high-performance airboats on their highly acclaimed, educational tours; afterwards, pose for a picture with one of their resident gators.

Spirit of the Swamp Airboat Rides , Kissimmee: Remember your camera when you go for a spin in the gloriously wild Central Florida Everglades with this tour company that offers private, intimate tours for groups of four or more.

South Florida

South florida, eastern region.

Coopertown Airboats , Miami: Blast through nine miles of sawgrass and hardwood hammocks with the occasional stop at an alligator hole. After your adventure, refuel on gator tail and frog legs at their sit-down restaurant.

Everglades Alligator Farm , Homestead: A heart-stopping airboat ride is merely the appetizer at this theme park. Other activities include reptile shows, gator feedings and a photo op holding a baby alligator .

Everglades Holiday Park , Fort Lauderdale: This South Florida destination features airboat tours as well as kissing-close photo ops with alligators, turtles, snakes and mammals. Don’t miss the utterly unforgettable, spine-tingling Gator Boys Alligator Rescue show.

Everglades Swamp Tours , Fort Lauderdale: Explore the Everglades on a private or group tour with Swamp Tours’ experienced guides to get an insider’s glimpse of the River of Grass.

Tigertail Airboat Tours , Miami: Located on the Miccosukee reservation and operated by a Native American family, you’re guaranteed to get a blockbuster trip with Tigertail, one of only a handful of companies allowed to drive airboats through Water Conservation Area 3-A, deep in the heart of the Everglades.

Sawgrass Recreation Park , Weston: Experience wildlife up close and from afar at this company that operates airboats and features exhibits of rescued animals. Be sure to get a photo op with a baby gator. Nighttime excursions, souvenir and food packages are available.

South Florida, Western Region

Corey Billie's Airboat Rides , Naples: Journey into a 200-acre preserve for a tour that’s “one part education and two parts fun” with native Floridian guides.

Jungle Erv's Airboat Tours , Everglades City: This company’s small airboats are ideal for winding under the mangrove tree canopies on an Everglades expedition. While you’re there, kick back on the Everglades City Boardwalk; hold your breath watching a live alligator show; and visit the Animal Sanctuary.

Speedy's Airboat Tours , Everglades City: With a maximum of six passengers on each of their airboats and access to a private section of the Florida Everglades, Speedy’s is dedicated to giving you the trip of a lifetime. Wooten's Everglades Airboat Tour , Ochopee: Airboat Tours! Swamp Buggy Rides! Alligator Shows! An animal sanctuary! Wooten’s offers them all and more. Make sure to watch the  Live Alligator Show , where you can hug your own alligator. Everglades City Airboat Tours , Everglades City: Everglades Airboat Tours promises a thrilling journey on a twisted path through mangrove tunnels. Their tours are small and personal—just the way they were when this family-owned business began in 1982.

An airboat ride through the Florida Everglades is an epic adventure.

Why the Everglades Matter

In 1947—the year Florida’s Everglades became a national park —conservationist Marjory Stoneman Douglas wrote, "There are no other Everglades in the world. They are, they have always been, one of the unique regions of the earth, remote, never wholly known.”

Indeed, the 1.5 million acres of sawgrass marshes, mangrove canopies and spellbinding wildlife remain a mystery. In spite of, or perhaps because of that fact, generations of visitors have explored this crown jewel of Florida.

With nearly 700 miles of beaches , the Sunshine State has no shortage of natural beauty. But the Everglades are Florida’s pièce de résistance, a one-of-a-kind ecosystem that has enchanted mankind for thousands of years.

During the dedication of Everglades National Park on Dec. 6, 1947, President Harry Truman called the Everglades “an irreplaceable primitive area.”

Often misidentified as a swamp, the slow-moving river that comprises the Everglades is one of the world’s largest wetlands. Its nine distinct habitats accommodate delicate fauna like manatees, Florida panthers and more than 300 species of birds . And it’s the only place on earth where alligators and crocodiles naturally coexist.

So it’s no wonder Floridians and visitors feel a passionate urge to protect the Everglades . But for Native Americans, the land holds even greater significance. There’s evidence that Calusa Indians inhabited the southern tip of Florida for centuries before Spanish settlers began arriving in 1513. During the Seminole Wars of the 18th and 19th centuries, the deepest, darkest corners of the Everglades became a refuge for the Seminole and Miccosukee Indians.

“They knew how to survive out here, so they went deeper into the Everglades,” notes Miccosukee descendant Alex Tigertail, manager of Tigertail Airboat Tours . “The [American] soldiers back then couldn’t survive in the Everglades.”

But if you find an experienced, cautious airboat driver and obey safety rules, Tigertail said, you’ll do more than survive the adventure. You’ll enjoy the ride of your life.

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Everglades Day Safari

Review Highlights

“ Day included an airboat ride, gator viewings, countless birds, lunch and then a national parks boat tour. ” in 6 reviews

“ We stopped at the island of Everglades City to eat a really great lunch that was included in the price. ” in 4 reviews

“ We were lucky, perhaps, in seeing all of the types of wildlife we hoped to see, and had perfect weather. ” in 7 reviews

Location & Hours

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Serving Fort Lauderdale Area

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About the business.

Business owner information

Naturalist-guided, certified ecotour of the Everglades (with pick up service from Fort Lauderdale and Flaming Gardens in Davie). The tour includes an Airboat Ride on the "River of Grass" in Everglades National Park, a Wildlife Drive through Big Cypress National Preserve, Delicious Lunch, a Mangrove Wilderness Boat Ride in Everglades National Park and a Nature Walk through an ancient cypress forest, all led by expert naturalists and biologists in our custom tour vans. …

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Is this small/ young kid friendly?

Probably not, not because of the long times in the van. The nature walk may be hard for youngster too.

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Overall rating

Overall : Wonderful Tour, Amazing wildlife, Knowledgeable Guide - Pete My wife, two teenage daughters and I really enjoyed this tour. It began at the CREW wildlife and environmental reserve. We met our guide, Pete and walked along the wide, flat trails and observed different birds and animals. Pete also pointed out and explained information about the trees, and plants we saw along the way. It was interesting to see wild orchids. Sometimes, we only found the evidence of the presence of some animals, such as mole tunnels or trying to guess the scat. Pete had provided a wildlife checklist so we could check off what we saw. We did observe a Limpkin and heard it's incredibly loud call. From there we drove about 15 minutes to a small marina by Lake Trafford. We had a chance to refresh our water and use the restroom. Then we had a guided tour of the animals at the marina - multiple snakes, including a 23 foot reticulated python which we learned is an invasive species in the Everglades. There were also turtles, tortoises and of course a few alligators. We were able to safely handle some of the animals with Pete's guidance. Ok, holding a juvenile alligator is cool! Next we boarded an airboat and spent an hour exploring Lake Trafford. This was exhilarating and the best part of the tour in my opinion. Pete and Captain Fred knew just where to go to see some huge gators. We also saw a myriad of birds from tiny ducks and bitterns to large grey herons and limpkins. It was a very nice day on the water and we really enjoyed it so we made sure to tip both Captain Fred and our guide Pete. I would definitely do this again, when I have some out of state family members visit.

Business Owner

Jan 5, 2021

Thank you Doc for the detailed and enthusiastic review of the day. I enjoyed having the opportunity to spend time exploring the Western Everglades with you and your family!

Overall it was a pretty neat experience! Julio was amazing and very intelligent/informative! Lots of driving. Majority of day was driving.

Aug 21, 2024

The Everglades is one of our last great wildernesses. We are fortunate that such a vast expanse of relatively untouched land sits between our heavily populated costs. Over 4 million acres of Everglades are our luxury to explore. It does require traveling to get there, and for those that wish to return, more travel, but one of the benefits of having an excellent guide such as Julio is you are provided with extensive cultural and natural historical knowledge of this astounding ecosystem. Until someone invents teleportation - we must drive! I appreciate the feedback.

Great tour.We saw lots of wildlife today. The tour guide was very informative about the wildlife and the history of the Everglades. We also went on a boat ride in ten thousand islands park. We saw dolphins jump out of the water and swim with the boat. The lunch at Everglades city was great too. We were out from 7am to 5pm. A full day of adventure and fun. We highly rate this tour.

Oh boy did I have a blast? The guys were great. The water is great ever gates are fantastic. Lots of wildlife we're grateful. Thanks guys.

Dec 19, 2023

Thank you for the positive feedback!

We went on this Trip on Sunday with Mark,he was a great tour glide he even stop on the side of the road so he can help a Turtle get across the road, two times, we saw gators up close on the walk we took that was really cool,we got to see the smallest post office, Mark took alot of time to make sure we were seeing what he saw,birds ect... the day trip is definitely worth it,would definitely recommend it.

See all photos from Kathy G. for Everglades Day Safari

Apr 6, 2022

Thank you for your great review Kathy! I'm glad you enjoyed Mark's expertise. He does a great job going out of the way to make every day unique and fun.

Our tour was INCREDIBLE! Thanks to our amazing tour guide, Heidi, we learned so much about Florida's birds, alligators, native palms, trees, ferns, and invasive ones too. We were able to see over 100 alligators, manatees, tons of different birds, Atlantic bottle nose dolphins, and some mammals of the Everglades. This trip did not disappoint and was one of our trip highlights!

Had a great time on this tour. If you are looking for a full day tour, this is a great experience. The boat tour at the end is not in the everglades, but rather in the gulf, where we saw dolphins and manatees!

Aug 19, 2022

Thank you for the nice comments. Just to clarify, the Everglades National Park boat tour does take place entirely within the boundaries of the Everglades National Park which extends into the Gulf of Mexico. The Everglades ecosystem does include the mangroves that we visited on the boat!

Great price for a full day of adventure. They picked us up at the hotel took us to a mini mart for drinks n snacks. Then we proceeded to the 1st stop the marsh boats. We saw birds and alligators it was pretty cool and makes me want to go back out and go faster and further. Second stop was a nature walk . It's low water or dry season so we just saw trees. A turtle and a water snake . Lunch was provided and was excellent a local small business. Seafood was fresh and we got to sample alligator which was delicious. Final stop was the boat ride for an hour it was fast ( lasted an hour) but speed fast it was fun. Saw birds an island beach of Pelicans and a few dolphins . Would like to take my long lens out and a private tour to get better wildlife shots. Zap our guide was funny and knowledgeable . Was a great way to spend the day .

See all photos from Amy W. for Everglades Day Safari

Jan 1, 2019

Hi Amy! Thanks for your review. Zak and I are glad that you enjoyed the four excursions, lunch and his knowledge of the Everglades.

I've always wanted to go to the Everglades and today was the day! Our tour guide was named Mark. Mark is beyond knowledgeable - he should curate content for animal planet. It's actually super impressive how much he knows. Mark was attentive to the group's needs and made sure we didn't miss out on seeing or learning about the Everglades ecosystem. Mark loves his job and the environment and it definitely shows and helps make the tour great. In terms of the day - it's definitely an all day event. We were picked up at 720 am and got back around 6. Day included an airboat ride, gator viewings, countless birds, lunch and then a national parks boat tour. We saw gators, turtles, many dolphins, manatees, and so many birds. This tour is meant to give a deeper dive on the Everglades so if you're just looking for a quick airboat ride this isn't for you -- if you want a more immersive experience this one is perfect!

Mar 24, 2022

Thanks for the great review Lauren. The day safari is an all day tour! It's the best way to see all the best parts of the Everglades. We usually get back around 5pm but spring break and the occasional traffic back up can get us back late but I'm glad you enjoyed the tour!

All I can say is amazing!!! Marc was our over all tour guide and was honestly awesome! Very attentive to everyones needs, and very very knowledgeable and really a great tour host! Although we didn't see a ton of animals because of time of year we still saw some and the knowledge and boat rides/walk were entertaining by themselves. If you are that person that wants everything perfect and to see a million animals don't go, don't be that person that is going to leave a bad review because of things out of human control. The weather was going to be iffy so we got to carry ponchos with is but it never rained on us while we were outside of the van or restaurant eating. This was seriously a great day! I learned so much! BRING CASH TO TIP ALL OF THE GUIDES! They try really hard to look for animals or at least give you some local knowledge. You will have your van driver as a guide, the air boat guide and the last speed boat guide. The food was included in the tour but tip your waitress a little extra too! I can't fit more photos in this review but I think you get the idea.

See all photos from Mandy W. for Everglades Day Safari

Aug 7, 2021

Wow! That's such a great review. I know August is one of the toughest months to see an abundance of wildlife but the guides really are great at finding everything they can. I'm glad you appreciated Marc as your main guide. He does a fantastic job and we're happy to have him aboard.

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Everglades Airboat Tours – Florida’s Wild Wetlands

Published: August 20, 2024

by Coralyn Whitener

Have you ever wanted to experience the wild side of Florida? Everglades airboat tours offer a thrilling way to explore one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Imagine gliding over the water, surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of nature. You might spot alligators, exotic birds, and even manatees. These tours are perfect for families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're a local or a tourist, an airboat ride through the Everglades provides an unforgettable experience. Ready to learn more about what makes these tours so special? Let's dive into the details!

Discover the Magic of Everglades Airboat Tours

Everglades National Park, a sprawling wetland in Florida, offers a unique way to experience its beauty: airboat tours. These thrilling rides take you deep into the heart of the Everglades, where you can see wildlife up close and learn about this unique ecosystem. Here are some top spots to check out on your airboat adventure.

1. Sawgrass Recreation Park

Sawgrass Recreation Park is a popular starting point for many airboat tours. Located in Weston, this park offers day and night tours, giving you a chance to see the Everglades in different lights. The park also has an animal exhibit where you can see rescued wildlife.

2. Everglades Holiday Park

Everglades Holiday Park, made famous by the TV show "Gator Boys," offers exciting airboat tours that promise close encounters with alligators. Located in Fort Lauderdale, this park also features live gator shows and educational exhibits.

3. Wooten's Everglades Airboat Tours

Wooten's Everglades Airboat Tours in Ochopee offers a variety of tour options, including private and group tours. This family-owned business has been operating for over 60 years, providing visitors with an authentic Everglades experience. They also have an animal sanctuary with panthers, tigers, and more.

4. Captain Jack's Airboat Tours

Captain Jack's Airboat Tours in Everglades City offers a unique twist with their mangrove tunnel tours. These tours take you through narrow waterways surrounded by mangroves, providing a different perspective of the Everglades. They also offer combo tours that include a visit to their animal sanctuary.

5. Coopertown Airboats

Coopertown Airboats, located in Miami, is one of the oldest airboat tour operators in the Everglades. Their experienced guides provide informative tours that highlight the history and ecology of the area. Coopertown also has a restaurant where you can try gator tail and frog legs.

6. Gator Park

Gator Park in Miami offers airboat tours that are perfect for families. Their tours are both educational and entertaining, with guides who share fascinating facts about the Everglades and its inhabitants. The park also has a wildlife show featuring alligators, snakes, and other creatures.

7. Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours

Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours, operated by the Miccosukee Tribe, offers a cultural experience along with the thrill of an airboat ride. Located in Miami, these tours provide insight into the history and traditions of the Miccosukee people. You might even get a chance to visit a Miccosukee village.

8. Speedy's Airboat Tours

Speedy's Airboat Tours in Everglades City offers small, personalized tours that take you through both grasslands and mangroves. Their smaller airboats allow for a more intimate experience, getting you closer to the wildlife and natural beauty of the Everglades.

9. Jungle Erv's Airboat Tours

Jungle Erv's Airboat Tours in Everglades City offers a mix of adventure and education. Their tours take you through mangrove tunnels and open waters, providing a comprehensive view of the Everglades. They also have a boardwalk where you can explore the mangroves on foot.

10. Airboat In Everglades

Airboat In Everglades, located in Miami, offers private and semi-private tours that cater to your interests. Their knowledgeable guides provide a personalized experience, ensuring you get the most out of your visit. They also offer sunset tours for a magical end to your day.

Experience the Everglades

Everglades airboat tours offer an unforgettable adventure. Gliding through the wetlands, you’ll witness diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. From alligators to exotic birds, the Everglades is a haven for nature lovers. The thrill of speeding across the water on an airboat adds excitement to the serene beauty around you.

Choosing a guided tour ensures you learn about the ecosystem and its inhabitants. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating facts and stories, making the experience both educational and fun. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, these tours cater to everyone.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore one of Florida’s natural treasures. Book an Everglades airboat tour and create memories that will last a lifetime. It’s an adventure you’ll talk about for years to come.

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Media & resources, 2024 annual meeting social events, sunday, october 27, 6:30 – 9:00 pm: welcome reception.

Kick off the 117 th Annual Meeting while catching up with old friends and peers and welcoming our first-time attendees. Enjoy a delicious feast while toasting to the memories from past NASBA conferences.

Monday, October 28

9:30 am – 3:00 pm: guest tour – everglades and safari tour.

Embark on a wild adventure through the Headwaters of the Florida Everglades at Wild Florida! Encounter over 200 native and exotic animals, savor unique swamp delicacies at the Chomp House Grill, and engage with captivating creatures in interactive encounters. Uncover the untouched beauty of pristine marshland on a U.S. Coast Guard certified airboat, spotting magnificent wildlife like eagles, alligators, and more.

• Airboat Tour – 30 minutes Take a thrilling ride on an airboat through the Headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Our U.S. Coast Guard approved airboats can skim across the shoreline while you look for wildlife or disappear into endless beautiful swamps, marshes and rivers. Feel the excitement as you glide on the water surrounded by the wild and untouched beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes.
• Gator Park – 45 minutes Don’t let the name fool you. Our gator park is full of more than 200 native and exotic animals. You’ll find lemurs, bobcats, two-toed sloths, and other wild animals. Of course, you’ll find plenty of alligators in their wild habitats.
• Drive-Thru Safari – 1 hour Travel down gravel paths within our Drive-thru Safari Park and discover more than 150 native and exotic animals roaming freely. During your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of animals often only found around the world. Expanding across 170 acres of untouched scenic landscapes, our wildlife and safari park presents a unique opportunity to bring you up close and personal with wild animals such as giraffes, zebra, eland antelope, scimitar oryx, American bison, mouflon sheep, and more !

Tuesday, October 29

6:30 – 9:30 pm: nasba luau extravaganza.

Say Aloha to your NASBA Family and close out the Annual Meeting with a spectacular Luau at Sea World’s Discovery Cove. You’ll enjoy an evening of tropical flavors, vibrant island entertainment, and memorable moments with fellow attendees.  Come in your most festive Hawaiian attire and get ready for a tropical night of fun and fellowship.

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Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024)

Orlando boat tours are a fantastic activity in Central Florida, no matter the type of boating adventure you choose.

Some of the suggestions below are full-day tours, and others take mere hours. But all are a great way to spend your time in order to enjoy the Sunshine State’s beautiful scenery. And that could mean a wild ride in the Everglades or sailing sunset cruises on one of the Orlando area's attractive lakes.

We are sharing the best Orlando boat tours – private and group options – including scenic pontoon boat tours, airboat rides, kayaking, canoeing, sunset sails, and even boat rentals at Walt Disney World.

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase at no cost to you. We recommend experiences, hotels, products, and services we use and support. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Book a sunset sailing tour in Orlando . It's our favorite type of boat tour, and Florida sunsets often show off for an audience!
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Orlando Airboat Rides 

One of the things Florida is most known for is its famous airboat tours. Sign up for this fun adventure whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, within Everglades National Park, or Orlando on Shingle Creek, on the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. 

You won’t soon forget an exciting airboat ride when you visit the Orlando area, with a chance to see Bald Eagles and other endemic tropical birds, alligators, and crocodiles (maybe even a baby alligator). 

Airboat rides are particularly popular amongst nature lovers. These special boats allow you to glide on the unique marshes and swampland of the Central Florida area. We thoroughly enjoyed our Florida airboat experience. 

Sign up for a 90-minute fun and educational Orlando airboat tour to encounter the real Florida with experienced captains. Alternatively, secure your spot for a 1-hour sunset airboat tour and hope for one of Florida’s famous colorful sunsets. 

Most airboat tours take place rain or shine. Just in case, we recommend traveling to Florida with a poncho or thin raincoat of some sort. Be sure to check in for your tour at least 30 minutes before the experience. 

Orlando Boat Tour on an Airboat with Transportation

This tour includes pick up and drop off in Central Florida (including designated Disney World and Universal hotels), a BBQ lunch, a printed photo, and admission to their animal rescue Wildlife Park, where you can see birds, big cats, and reptiles. 

The entire experience – from transportation to the boat ride – lasts around 7 hours, including the drive to and from the Everglades area. The Florida Everglades are approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive each way from Orlando. Choose from a 30-minute or 60-minute airboat ride when you book your experience . 

Orlando Sailing Tours 

How about enjoying Orlando’s lakes with wind power? Sailing tours are the perfect way to glide on the water. And a sunset sail is incredibly romantic, to boot! 

Private Morning Sail 

Set sail on a 2-hour private sailing tour, starting at 10:00 am. Adventure awaits on Lake Fairview for up to four guests. 

This area is just north of College Park near downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando’s Lieu Gardens. Don’t forget to bring towels if you want, though water is provided (and lakes are calm anyway, so you shouldn’t really get wet!).

Advanced reservations are required.

Private Lake Sunset Sail 

Sail on Lake Fairview, approximately 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, 30-35 minutes from the Disney theme parks (including the Disney Springs area), and 25 minutes from Universal. 

This 2-hour private Orlando boat tour can fit up to four people, and they allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages onboard. We recommend bringing a bottle of wine or champagne! 

We recommend bringing along a wine tumbler set for your sailboat adventure! 

Kayaking Tours

Connect with nature from the comfort of a kayak and get in some exercise too. Orlando boat tour options for kayaking are plentiful. 

Kayak with Manatees

Head 45 minutes north of Orlando for your chance to kayak with manatees! These cute and friendly mammals are famous in the Sunshine State, where they come to enjoy the warm water for the winter. 

Whether you’re a novice kayaking trying it for the first time, or an experienced pro, this tour is for you if you want to see a plethora of wildlife. 

Check out this popular tour with 5-star reviews

Glass Bottom Boat Kayak Tours

If you want to see the fish below the water’s surface without snorkeling, sign up for a glass-bottom kayak tour. See through the bottom of the boat on this Orlando boat tour and have the chance to view the colorful fish and marine plant life beneath you. 

Try a Rock Springs guided kayak eco-tour as you glide on the crystal-clear water for two hours. You’ll learn about the local ecosystem, stop for photos, and have the opportunity to swim in the springs. Opt to jump into the water from a rope swing for a thrill during this adventure. 

You can also opt for a sunset tour in a glass-bottom kayak . Paddle through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes and canals in a peaceful setting. Your knowledgeable guide will point out interesting nature homes along the way and share some history of the area. You’ll also be able to stop for photos where you like! 

This tour is likely to sell out: Reserve Now

Winter Park Evening Clear Kayak Glow in the Dark Tour

If you want to add a fun element to your kayaking adventure, sign up for a Winter Park kayak tour at night with a glow-in-the-dark kayak. The boats are illuminated with nighttime lighting!

They will surely be a good photo opp and fun outing as the lights make the water beneath you glow. 

Another great option is this Neon Night Glow Paddleboard or Clear Kayak experience on Lake Ivanhoe.

This unique boat tour allows you to see Orlando’s skyline at night as you paddle along with the help of your guides, the moonlight, and the colorful lights beneath your kayak or paddleboard.  

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of our favorite Orlando boat tours is in Winter Park. It was established in the 1930s, decades before Walt Disney World opened in Lake Buena Vista.

This pontoon boat tour starts near the well-known Park Avenue area. Set out on your scenic cruise from Lake Osceola to the Winter Park Chain of Lakes as your guide takes you through the manmade canals.

Sail past stunning homes in Winter Park, where you will have breathtaking views of the opulent private homes in the area (which is one of the reasons we enjoy the boat tour).

You will have a chance to see wonderful some of Florida’s beautiful birds, like Blue Herons and large cranes, as you travel on several lakes. 

Each boat holds a maximum of 18 passengers. Be sure to bring cash or a check to buy your tickets because credit cards are not accepted. We advise purchasing tickets in the morning on weekends, even if you plan on going later in the day. It’s a very popular tour, and tickets often sell out quickly. 

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is closed on Christmas Day. Otherwise, tours leave daily on the hour, starting at 10:00 am. The last tour is at 4:00 pm. 

Day Trip Boat Tours from Orlando

While the Orlando boat tours listed above are within 30 minutes, on average, from Orlando, it’s worth mentioning there are more boat tour options nearby within a 2-hour drive. Here are some additional Central Florida boat tour options. 

Mount Dora Lake Tours

One of our favorite destinations from Central Florida is 45 minutes north: the quaint town of Mount Dora . There’s so much to see and do there in the afternoon or morning; a boat tour is the best way to extend your trip to a whole day. 

Take a 2-hour pontoon boat tour with a departure point at the historic hotel, the Lakeside Inn. Enjoy your leisurely cruise around Lake Dora and The Harris Chain of Lakes, including the famed Dora Canal.

The all-weather 25’ boats can cruise rain or shine thanks to their retractable clear covers for the sides of the boat. Choose from one of two daytime tours, or their third option to cruise during sunset. 

Clearwater Beach with Dolphin Encounter Cruise

This 12-hour full-day tour begins with pick-up at 7:30 am. You’ll head west of Orlando to the popular Florida destination (Clearwater Beach), where you will take a cruise to encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. 

While this means that you aren’t guaranteed to spot dolphins, your tour guide will do his or her very best to find them. You may see these beautiful mammals up close by the boat or further in the distance if they appear in the ocean. Part of the fun is the anticipation. 

A one-hour dolphin tour boat ride is sandwiched between hours of free time on a Gulf Coast beach. For only $10 more, you can purchase a wristband for the boat ride that allows you to have unlimited beer, wine, and vodka punch. 

Pickup and drop off are included at one of three major locations of your choice (Disney areas included). This means that all you have to do is sign up for the tour and be at that location for pick-up time. 

Choose from the three pick-up locations listed below:

• Walt Disney World area, on Epcot Resorts Blvd. (northern area of the parks) 
• Walt Disney World area, at Maingate Lakeside Resort in Kissimmee (area of the Disney World theme parks that is further south) 
• International Drive (close to Universal) at Senor Frogs

Clear Canoe Boat Tour Near Orlando at Silver Springs

This clear canoe boat tour is approximately halfway between Orlando and Gainesville at Silver Springs. The drive is approximately an hour and 45 minutes from downtown Orlando. 

You’ll do a self-guided tour after the kayak company representative meets you and gives you a laminated map and some brief instructions. Paddle near Cypress Trees and see turtles, ducks, birds, and a chance to see manatees during the winter season, when they swim to Florida’s warm waters.

Dan and I often like to explore an area freely, on our own. Maybe you’re the same way! If so, this is a great tour for you in the Orlando area, as long as you can rent a car to get to the meeting point or take a taxi/Uber or Lyft there. 

Orlando Boat Tours at Walt Disney World

Did you know that you can rent motorized boats at Disney World? It’s one of the best things to do at Walt Disney World, besides the parks. 

Rent a Sun Tracker® Pontoon boat by the half-hour for up to 10 people. You can also opt to kayak or canoe from Fort Wilderness by the hour. 

One of the most singular boat tours in Orlando, or perhaps anywhere, is an Amphicar boat tour. Be a passenger and the envy of all onlookers in a cool convertible car that drives right into the water. This experience is available at Disney Springs restaurant, The Boathouse.

Lastly, you can book a specialty cruise to see the fireworks. You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to do so! Snacks and soft drinks are included in a memorable cruise on a 25’ boat. 

You can also request ​​for a festive banner and/or balloons to be set up on the boat, which is included in the cost (request at the time of booking). It’s a great thing to do for you and your partner or up to 10 guests total, whether a proposal, anniversary treat, or family reunion. 

What to Bring for Orlando Boat Tours

Florida's heat can be brutal, depending on the time of year. No matter the month, you definitely need to protect your skin from the sun. The sun in FL is strong, year-round. 

Be sure to pack the following if you’ll be on the water in sunny Florida: 

• Refillable water bottle (the ice will stay intact for hours in the MiiR bottle, our favorite insulated wide-mouth bottle) 
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• SPF lip balm
• Eco-friendly bathing suit 
• Rash guard 

Conclusion for Best Orlando Boat Tours

Whether you want to captain a boat yourself, row your way through Florida’s waters in a kayak, see gators on an educational airboat ride, or go on a romantic sailboat cruise around one of Central Florida’s lakes, an Orlando boat is a wonderful Florida activity. 

It will connect you with nature, get you out in fresh air, and allow your body to absorb vitamin D in the Florida sunshine. Sign up for an Orlando boat tour and explore this southern state in a unique and adventurous way. 

Read this next:

• 40 Awesome Things Florida is Known For
• 30 Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks
• Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Helpful Info for a Successful Visit

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