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The 9 best everglades airboat and swamp tours.

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

The Top Everglades Airboat & Swamp Tours

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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 and 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.

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Over 2500 Excellent 5 STAR Reviews!

Family-owned and operated for 11+ years in the great Florida Everglades. The River Of Grass team has over 2500 excellent 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor, Yelp, Google, and Facebook!

What Makes The River of Grass Adventures Everglades Airboat Tour Different!

How you explore the Everglades matters to our team at Everglades River of Grass Adventures. Especially during this COVID-19 pandemic, we want our guests to be safe and stress-free. Our Captains and employees receive daily wellness checks to ensure they are healthy and symptom-free. All traffic areas, including seats, railings, and headsets, are sanitized before and after every ride. Hand sanitizer is available. Our captains wear buff face masks to protect them from the sun, wind, and bugs. We encourage our guests to wear them too. However, face masks are not required for our outdoor activities.

Airboat Charter Company

We are not an Everglades theme park or one of the Everglades National Park airboat tour "roadside attractions." We are a small, private Everglades airboat charter company that explores the Everglades just across the road from the National Park tours. We have no caged alligators or wildlife, and the only "show" on the boat. Everglades The River Of Grass Adventures has been making wonderful memories with people worldwide for nearly 10 years. Awarded TripAdvisor's Hall of Fame Tours for earning a Certificate of Excellence each year for 5 years consecutively, and now approaching 10 years of excellent reviews.

Magical Areas of the Everglades

Explore our backyard on an airboat ride through some of the most magical areas of the Everglades. No two tours are alike. Each captain has their route and will stop throughout the airboat tour to talk with you about the history of the Everglades, and its current events and, of course, show you a mosaic of flora and fauna. There are no caged animals on Everglades River Of Grass airboat tours, and no alligator wrestling shows, just nature at its best, naturally.

Subtropical Paradise

The Florida Everglades is a subtropical paradise. Some of the world's most unique and endangered species call the Everglades home. Alligators, egrets, great blue herons, turtles, crocodiles, whitetail deer, black bears, and even the elusive Florida panther are just some of the wildlife you might see on this Everglades wetland safari with the river of grass airboat ride adventure!

Coast Guard Certified Captains

Whether your River Of Grass Everglades airboat tour is near Miami or Fort Lauderdale, you will explore with seasoned "Gladesmen" naturalists, and United States Coast Guard certified captains experts at delivering safe, educational, thrilling, and memorable sightseeing adventures.

Travel With Us

Traveling through the freshwater wetlands on a small, custom airboat is a fantastic way to experience South Florida's Everglades. Come check out Miami's other wild side and see what makes us, The River Of Grass Adventures, different. We look forward to welcoming you, your family, co-workers, and friends to the beautiful and amazing Everglades river of grass. Please check frequently asked questions for more details.

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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

Did You Find This Post Helpful?

If so, we would love to keep in touch! We enjoy seeing photos and comments about your experiences in Florida! You can follow us on Instagram and we will repost your photos on our feed and comment too! Just tag us at @floridatrippers and hashtag #floridatrippers. We can’t wait to see your travels!

954.260.1096

Florida Everglades Airboat Tours

Explore one of the world’s most unique ecosystems with the florida everglades airboat tours at cypress outdoor adventures, florida everglades airboat rides.

Are you ready for an unforgettable excursion down the “River of Grass”? Experience the unique beauty of the Florida Everglades and its vast wildlife in its natural habitat – all from the safety and comfort of an airboat tour! Cypress Outdoor Adventures offers the best Everglades airboat tours  in Florida. Get in touch with us today to start planning your airboat tour!

Take an Everglades airboat tour during the day! We offer private airboat rides 7 days a week from 7am to 7pm. Book an airboat ride in the early morning to catch the beautiful sunrise over the Florida Everglades or enjoy an early afternoon tour for some fun in the sun. Since all of our Everglades airboat rides are private, you can book a custom tour that works best for you and your group.

Sunset Tours

Enjoy a breathtaking sunset over the Florida Everglades and watch the night come alive around you. Our sunset Everglades airboat tours are the perfect option for those who want to see the American alligator. You can also add 2-hours of bowfishing to your airboat ride for even more excitement. Contact us to add additional bowfishing so that we can make sure weather and water levels are ideal for your tour date.

Take the ultimate nighttime fishing adventure. Our bowfishing airboat tours in the Everglades are sure to get your adrenaline flowing. Bowfishing combines both fishing and hunting to catch a variety of different fish species. Whether you’re a first timer or prop, our tours are perfect for everyone! All equipment is provided, but you’re always welcome to bring your own. Our experienced tour captain will show you the ins and outs of bowfishing in the Florida Everglades.

Airboat Tour Cost

All of our Everglades airboat rides are flat rate charters. We offer quick one-hour airboat tours for those limited on time, and two-hour airboat tours for those who’d like to enjoy a bit more time in nature. We recommend our two-hour Everglades airboat tours for anyone who has the time. You’ll get to see more of the Florida Everglades, have better photo opportunities, and you’re likely to see more alligators and other wildlife on our longer tours.

NOTE:  Due to increased fuel prices, there’s a temporary $10 surcharge per rider. We can also accommodate large parties on multiple airboats with advanced notice. If you have more than 10 riders in your group,  contact us today  for a free quote.

1-Hour Airboat Tour

• Private airboat ride in the Everglades
• Price includes 1-4 riders
• For additional adults: $50 / rider
• For kids 12 years old and under: $25 / rider
• Max capacity for up to 10 riders

1.5-Hour Airboat Tour

• Best suited for children
• For kids 12 years old and under $25 / rider

2-Hour Airboat Tour

The best everglades airboat tours.

with Captain Bill

What is an Airboat Tour?

You may be wondering what an airboat tour even is. An airboat is a flat-bottomed boat that’s propelled by a large, caged fan on the back of the boat. Airboats are also commonly referred to as a fanboat or swamp boat. Standard boat engines with the propeller submerged underneath the water aren’t capable of navigating through shallow waters. This makes airboats the best way to travel through the swampy region of the Florida Everglades.

The Everglades is a natural region of subtropical wetlands in South Florida. It’ the largest (and most unique) subtropical wilderness in the United States, covering a vast area south of Lake Okeechobee all the way down to the Florida Bay. The intricate system of rivers flow near Fort Lauderdale, which is close to  where we offer our airboat tours . Our Everglades airboat tours are an exciting way to explore the unique wildlife and diverse habitat of the River of Grass, where you may see the American alligator and various species of turtles, fish and birds.

Meet Your Airboat Tour Captain

Cypress Outdoor Adventures has been offering private Everglades airboat tours for many years. We aim to provide our customers with a fun, safe and memorable experience while visiting the Florida Everglades. All of our Everglades airboat rides are expertly guided by the experienced and USCG certified Captain Bill. Captain Bill is licensed by the coast guard and grew up in the Everglades, making him one of the most knowledgeable captains around. You can always learn more about Captain Bill here .

Tips for the Best Everglades Airboat Tour Experience

with Cypress Outdoor Adventures

Best Everglades Airboat Tour Time

When the weather is nice, the best time to take an Everglades airboat tour is around dawn or dusk to see the most wildlife. If the weather is cooler, then midday is usually the best time for Everglades airboat tours. 

The best time to see alligators on an Everglades airboat tour is dependent on temperature, time of year, and water level. In the summertime, you’ll see more wildlife in the morning and at sunset. Alligators are cold blooded animals that need to regulate their body temperature. So during our summer months, you’re more likely to see alligators at dawn or dusk. In the winter months when the outside temperatures are cold, then midday airboat tours are typically the best time to see alligators and other wildlife. This is when they’ll be out trying to get as much sunlight as possible.

What To Bring on an Everglades Airboat Ride

In order to have the best Everglades airboat tour experience, we recommend bringing the following items:

• SPF / sun protection
• Polarized sunglasses
• Water & drinks (alcoholic beverages allowed)
• Rain jacket
• Sense of adventure

What To Wear on an Everglades Airboat Ride

We offer Everglades airboat tours year-round. You’ll want to check the weather for your airboat tour dates so that you come prepared. Being comfortable during your Everglades airboat ride makes the experience even more enjoyable. Here’s what we recommend wearing based on our most popular seasons:

Summer Everglades Airboat Tours 

There are two things to remember when it comes to summer airboat tours in the Everglades: the Florida sun is intense, and it can rain frequently. You’ll want to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays, especially during the hottest parts of the day. You’ll also want to bring some protective rain gear to stay dry, such as a poncho and umbrella. We recommend wearing the following for Everglades airboat tours during summer:

• Lightweight jacket
• Flip-flops or sandals

Winter Everglades Airboat Tours

While winter in the Everglades doesn’t necessarily hit freezing temperatures, it can still get pretty cold out on the fanboat. Temperatures can hit as low as the 50’s or 60’s, so you may want to bundle up or wear some extra layers to protect yourself from the wind. As natives to Florida, we never go without SPF. We recommend wearing sun protection during the day, even on overcast days. Here’s what we recommend wearing for Everglades airboat rides during winter:

• Long-sleeve shirt
• Socks and shoes

If you have any questions about what to wear or bring with you on your Everglades airboat tour, feel free to contact us or give us a call for more information.

Why Choose Our Florida Everglades Airboat Tours?

Years Of Experience

Cypress Outdoor Adventures is a dream that I’ve had since I was a child. I was fortunate to grow up in the Everglades. My father would take me out almost every weekend and we would explore the Everglades with family and friends. The life’s lessons and respect learned for mother nature and other Gladesmen, are what made me the person I am today. It built strong bonds with my family and gave me a deep appreciation for nature.

Eco Friendly

On your airboat ride you will encounter different types of wildlife; from the different bird species, different types of turtles and of course the American alligator. As we cruise on your private airboat tour you will also see different types of vegetation from cypress , to sawgrass and different types of flowers. I tell my customers about the history of the glades from its days long ago to the impact man has had on this fragile ecosystem. It’s a great way for family and friends to bond and enjoy each other’s company in a private setting.

Safety First

Whether its a large or small group, we can accommodate your needs. The airboats are meticulously maintained for safety and performance. The airboat engines are performance racing engines that are inspected on a daily basis. When you step onboard one of my boats you know that you were stepping on a show quality vessel.

What is the best Everglades airboat tour?

The best Everglades airboat tour is Cypress Outdoor Adventure’s two-hour airboat ride. You’ll get to see more of the Florida Everglades, have better photo opportunities, and you’re likely to see more alligators and other wildlife on the longer tour.

How much do airboat tours cost?

The cost of our Everglades airboat tours start from just $275. Due to increased fuel prices, there’s a temporary $10 surcharge per rider. Seasonal discounts are also available throughout the year. Give us a call for airboat tour discounts.

How many people can fit in an airboat?

The airboat can comfortably fit up to 10 passengers. We can accommodate larger parties with over 10 riders on multiple airboats. If you have more than 10 people in your group, get in touch for more information.

When is the best time to take an airboat tour to see wildlife?

When the weather is nice, the best time to take an Everglades airboat tour is around dawn or dusk to see the most wildlife. If the weather is cooler, then midday is usually the best time for Everglades airboat tours.

What to wear on an airboat ride?

Being comfortable during your Everglades airboat ride makes the experience even more enjoyable. Here’s what to wear on an airboat ride: 

• Shorts (summer)
• Pants (winter)
• Sandals or shoes

What to bring on an airboat ride?

For the best experience, we recommend bringing the following items on an airboat ride:

See What Our Customers Had To Say

We had a great time exploring the Everglades with Captain Bill. He we very knowledgeable and interesting, and made the entire morning a lot of fun! I would highly recommend.

Captain Bill is amazing!!!!!!! He knows the Everglades like the back of his hand!! We saw a lot of gators and snakes! Bill provided everything we needed to keep our family safe! We are already planning another tour early next year!!

THANK YOU, Captain Bill (Cypress Outdoor Adventures)! We just finished a sunset excursion and had the time of our lives! Our 11 year old and almost-four-year old boys had a blast. We saw about a dozen alligators ranging in size, beautiful birds, heard the bullfrogs and witnessed a gorgeous sunset!

If you’re looking for the best airboat ride in South Florida, honestly – look no further! My husband and I had the most incredible airboat experience with Captain Bill. He is punctual, friendly, beyond knowledgable, and tailored the entire evening to our requests. .

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954.260.1096 Call/Text Capt Bill

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

[email protected]

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The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

Everglades safari t-shirt, experience the beauty of everglades national park while riding an airboat, discover the next level of family fun while our captains navigate through the pristine waters of everglades national park aboard our world-famous airboat tours. you can bet it is one of the safest social distancing options to explore your nature™..

The Original Eco-Experience Airboat Tour

Take an unforgettable journey on an airboat ride through florida's everglades national park, join our expert captains for 30 to 40 minutes of educational family fun in the florida everglades. learn about the unique plants and animals that live in your very own backyard..

Travel Deeper into Everglades National Park Aboard A Private Tour

Go off the beaten path as we journey deeper into florida's everglades national park, as expert guides, our captains have unparalleled knowledge of the trails, plants, and animals. join us for a truly unique and unforgettable experience today.

So much fun!! We did a private tour with LOU, and had an absolute blast!! Thanks to all the staff for being so friendly and knowledgeable! Make sure you go to the alligator show!

Wonderful place, excellent your guide and really awesome Alligator show. Highly recommend!!! Will definitely be back

Wondering What to Do When Visiting the Everglades?

From airboats to camping, we've listed our top picks in our latest article: Top 7 Things to Do in the Everglades!

On Vacation & Need A Ride? We Can Help!

We recommend Xpedition Tours! They provide reliable service to and from our park, from select locations.

So fun!  Beautiful tour flying around the everglades on an airboat!  Wear the ear buds they give you. And you can hold Snappy!

This place is awesome!  We saw a Snail Kite, momma alligator and her nest. The boat ride was sooo much fun. We actually drove by it and turned around just to see the place.

Planning Your Visit? Woo!

Find out everything you can do during your visit to the florida everglades, from airboats to nature walks, wildlife shows to gator bites, we offer family fun in the warm florida sun all year long. we're sure your experience will be unforgettable., ever wonder what that alligator is doing.

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.

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.

We recommend Xpedition Tours! transportation companies in Miami to provide you reliable service to and from our park, from select locations.

Traveling With A Group? Group Rates & Arrangements Are Available.

Group tours of all sizes are welcome to enjoy the adventure, together! Our custom made, twin rotor airboats are the largest in the industy, holding a whopping 45 visitors each!

Meet Our Partners

Park Information

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

Extended Small Airboat Tour

per adult (11+)

4 attractions

50 min tour

2-3 hour visit

Cruise through the wide open grasslands into secluded mangroves on this extended 50 minute tour. This tour gives you a more personalized experience in a smaller airboat that can get closer to mangroves where larger boats can't go.

4 Attractions Included with All Our Tours

• Extended Airboat Tour

Animal Sanctuary

Alligator Show

Hug an Alligator

Upgrade your tour.

Inlcude Mangrove Maze, Grassland, & Buggy

+ Add Swamp Buggy

• Private Airboat Tour

Choose the Right Tour

• On a 50-minute Extended Airboat Tour (the tour you're looking at now) , you'll explore the grasslands and get deeper into the mangroves where the larger boats can't go. Boats seat up to 9 guests.
• On a 30-minute Grassland Airboat Tour , you'll glide through the expansive grassland and mangroves on 259 acres of private land. Boats seat a maximum of 15 guests.
• On a 50-minute Private Airboat Tour , you get the same amazing experience as the Extended Tour, but the entire boat is reserved only for your party. Boats seat up to 9 guests.
• Add a 30-minute Swamp Buggy Tour to explore exclusive grasslands and cypress forests from a raised buggy, which seats up to 22 guests.

We'll split your party onto multiple Extended Airboat Tours, with airboats that seat a maximum of 9 guests. Or you might consider a Grasslands Airboat Tour , with airboats that seat about 15 guests.

For parties of 20 or more, see our group tours page for more information.

• A Private Airboat Tour ensures your party of 9 or less gets an entire airboat to yourself to see the Everglades' famous grasslands and mangrove wilderness.
• On all other airboat tours, you might be seated with other guests, or be split onto multiple airboats if there aren't enough seats on one airboat.

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

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.

Top Questions

• 45 minutes from Naples
• 75 minutes from Fort Myers
• 90 minutes from Miami
• 3 hours from Tampa
• 4 hours from Orlando

Don't use Uber, Lyft, or other ride-sharing services. They can't pick you up when you're done!

• Yes, all ages are welcome on all our tours.
• Any passengers aged 17 or younger must be accompanied by at least one passenger who is aged 18 or older.
• Coast Guard regulations require everyone, even infants on your lap, to buy a seat.
• Consider bringing sunblock, bug spray, and comfortable shoes and clothes.
• You might get a little wet from small splashes and spray.
• If rain is forecasted, we recommend bringing a poncho.
• Many guests see wild alligators, birds, and other wildlife on their airboat and buggy tours, but Mother Nature makes no guarantees, so neither can we.
• You will definitely see alligators and other rescued animals in our Animal Sanctuary , an attraction included with all our tours.
• Our tours run rain or shine, except when there's a thunderstorm.
• We don't refund bookings if you cancel too close to a tour's departure time (check the policy when booking).
• Sometimes we need to delay due to thunderstorms or other unforeseen circumstances. We'll do our best to reschedule or issue a refund.
• Our airboat docks are handicap accessible, but wheelchairs can’t be loaded onto our airboats.
• If anyone in your party is using a wheelchair, please be sure they can move from the wheelchair onto the airboat.
• For everyone's safety, pets and service animals are not allowed in the Animal Sanctuary , near the boat launch, on airboats, or on swamp buggies.
• Service animals are allowed only in the gift shop, restrooms, and picnic areas.
• Grassland & National Park Combo
• Original Combo
• Extended Combo
• Total Everglades Combo
• Private Combo
• Kayak Airboat Combo
• Grassland Airboat Tour
• 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

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.

View Prices & Reviews

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

Group Airboat Tour

At everglades holiday park, a group airboat tour is the best way to see the everglades, everglades group airboat tour at everglades holiday park.

There’s no better way to see the Everglades than on Everglades group airboat tour and there’s no better place to do so than at Everglades Holiday Park. Our group Everglades airboat tours take you deep into this unique wetland, where you’ll see gators, snakes and wading birds in their natural habitat. Led by an experienced guide, Everglades boat tours are both fun and educational – perfect for adults and children of all ages. In addition to an Everglades airboat tour you’ll get full access to our pavilion and the surrounding park, where opportunities for hiking, fishing and other activities are endless when you’re on an Everglades excursion.

What makes a group airboat tour a great way to see the Everglades? On Everglades National Park boat tours, you’ll enjoy unprecedented access to these wetlands. Capable of traveling at speeds up to 60 mph, our boats are fun to ride but shaded to ensure your comfort as you glide along the River of Grass. Take in the unique scenery, enjoy the wind in your hair and keep a close eye out for gators and other inhabitants. An Everglades airboat ride will bring you right into this exciting, unspoiled wilderness.

Get more information about our group discounts.

Contact page form, home of the famous gator boys.

Our group airboat tour is ranked one of the top three attractions in Florida by USA TODAY and 10Best.com, Everglades Holiday Park is also home to the famous Gator Boys - stars of their own hit reality show on Animal Planet. Visit us for group Miami airboat tours and you'll have the opportunity to watch an exclusive show featuring some of the cast members. Informative, fun and exciting, our gator shows provide the chance to get up close and personal with a real-live gator. For a small donation to the Gator Boys Alligator Rescue Fund, you can even get your picture taken with one of these creatures - a unique souvenir that's also helping a great cause!

Group Airboat Tour - Perfect for School Trips, Birthday Parties and Corporate Events

You don't need a special occasion to visit Everglades Holiday Park for a group airboat tour, but choosing us to host your next big event is a great way to make it one to remember! A group airboat tour is perfect for birthday parties, corporate team-building exercises and school field trips - special packages are also available that include everything you need to enjoy a full day in our facilities. In addition to an airboat tour, you'll get full access to our pavilion and the surrounding park, where opportunities for hiking, fishing and other activities are endless. Catered lunches are available, and you can also enjoy spots for picnicking and a cafeteria serving up local favorites such as frog legs and gator bites. For more information about booking a large group airboat tour, an event or a private group airboat ride, contact our office by phone or email.

Booking a Group Airboat Tour

Everglades Holiday Park is conveniently located just a short drive from downtown Fort Lauderdale. If you're staying in town, or elsewhere in the Miami Metro area, visiting us is an easy trip that lets you see all the 'Glades have to offer in one day. If you're considering visiting Everglades Holiday Park with a group of 15 or more friends, we're pleased to offer a group rate for enjoying the Everglades group airboat tour together. However, if you'd like to experience the environment in private, we can reserve private airboat tours for private parties of 2 or more.

Fun For All Ages

Our group airboat tour is offered for groups of 15 or more and are a great way to celebrate birthdays, reunions or just getting together with friends for a day of fun in the sun. Everglades tours can be made for groups as large as 300, but please note, smaller groups will be seated on larger airboats with other groups. If you are looking to explore the Everglades in a boat with just you and your guests, you would rather reserve a private tour. For pricing and more information, call 954-434-8111

Group Discounts

Want to bring an entire group, class, camp, or collection of colleagues or family members to enjoy our airboat tours? Give us a call for group discounts at 954-434-8111 Ext. 104

Safety on your journey

Learn the best ways to be safe during your epic adventure in the Everglades.

Blog Articles

Visiting everglades national park.

The national park is so large, that you end up doing a lot of driving to get from one station to the next. You also end up fighting a lot of crows. That is why we are so excited to offer an Everglades airboat experience right near Ft. Lauderdale,

Decades Of Restoration Work – The Everglades Bridge That Changed it All

Everglades National Park wasn’t established until 1947, and by then, the damage to the Everglades was already noticeable.

10 Surprising Facts About the Everglades

Do you know the Florida Everglades? You might be surprised to learn that America’s wetland is actually a river. Here are 5 surprising facts about the Everglades.

we’ve got the answers

How long are the airboat rides.

We fill our airboat tours with *1-hour of pure excitement and thrills—that’s longer than any other airboat ride in the area. Plan for a full hour out on the water to explore the wetlands and see the amazing sights.

How long is the alligator presentation show?

Our in-demand alligator show courtesy of The Gator Boy Alligator Rescue lasts anywhere between 15-25 minutes. You’ll experience tricks, demonstrations, stunts, and more—plus, you’ll learn a ton of interesting facts about the alligators in the Everglades.

Can I touch a LIVE gator?

We’ll do you one better than that—you can actually hold a baby alligator (and get a picture as proof!) Once the alligator presentation is over, you and your party can pose for a picture with a baby alligator and take home the photo as a keepsake. Of course, this process is totally safe (the alligator’s mouth will be taped shut for protection)—but that doesn’t mean you won’t feel the power and strength of the alligator in your hands.

Are airboat tours dangerous for kids and the elderly?

Airboat rides are a perfectly safe and fun way to tour the Everglades—especially because at the park, we pride ourselves on safety as our top priority. That, and creating a family-fun day of excitement for people of all ages. We proudly employ experienced boat captains who are the most highly skilled navigators—and in fact, have been exploring the Everglades for a huge portion of their lives. What about our airboats? Well, that’s another point of pride—we have the most impressive fleet in the Everglades, each one more equipped and state-of-the-art than the last. At our park, airboat tours and rides are a safe activity for everyone!

Are alligators forced to perform in alligator shows?

Actually, it’s pretty much the opposite. Our alligators are rescued and cared for by The Gator Boys Alligator Rescue team—which means they feed them, care for them, and create a beautiful, natural environment to live in. Every one of our gator shows is animal friendly and truly, many of them are total hams for the audience—something tells us they just really like the spotlight.

Can I bring my baby on an Everglades airboat tour?

Please do! We always encourage parents to bring their little ones aboard the boats to experience the park and enjoy the wildlife. The best part? Children under 3 years old are always free. As an added bonus, your baby will be safe from the sun’s rays—our airboats are covered to protect from the hot South Florida sun. If your baby is sensitive to louder sounds, no problem, we sell earplugs in the General Store which will protect them from the noise of the airboat engines.

@evergladesholidaypark

Everglades boat tours

An Everglades group airboat tour is the best way to go our with your friends and family for a day out exploring the Everglades! If you have a group of 15 or more people, then you’ll get a discounter rate – Just give us a call or fill out the contact form on this website and we will get back to you ASAP to discuss rates.

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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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• See what to bring for Orlando boat tours so you are prepared to deal with the Florida bugs!

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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