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4 of the Best Airboat Rides in Central Florida

airboat tours central florida

Traveling to Central Florida? Here are the airboat tours that you should check out!

Florida, undoubtedly, has some of the most fascinating and fun activities in the world. One of these activities is airboat tours!

Now, you may be asking what an airboat tour is. In short, airboat tours take guests on tours of great bodies of water on (you guessed it!) airboats!

The greatest part about airboat tours in Florida is the wildlife. Florida has beautiful wildlife and vegetation. While on airboat tours, guests can look at the plant-life, animals, and scenery in a way that they never could before.

Now there are TONS of airboat tours in Florida, so I am going to narrow down some of the best in Central Florida for you! If this sounds interesting to you, then keep on reading!

1.  Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

The Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offers four different airboat ride tours for guests. Guests can also do private events and get togethers on site.

2.  Airboat Rides at Midway

Airboat Rides at Midway offers different airboat tours and experiences for guests. Nestled between Orlando and the Kennedy Space Center, Airboat Rides at Midway has a wonderful location and is convenient for traveling guests.

3.  Black Hammock Airboat Rides Orlando

Black Hammock Airboat Rides Orlando has three different airboat tour lengths (30 or 45 minutes or an hour long). Guests can also enjoy free exhibits, a bar, and a gift shop.

4.  Switchgrass Outfitters & Airboat Tours

Switchgrass Outfitters & Airboat Tours offers guests 90-minute long airboat tours with educational information. The tours take place at different times of day and there is even a bird watching tour.

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Deals for humans

Florida resident deals, military, first responder, and teacher deals.

(Four-person max, discount can be redeemed by booking over the phone or being refunded with proof of membership upon check-in. Combos and Half-Day Adventures are excluded.)

FHIA (Florida Hospitality industry association) DEALS

(Three person max)

AAA, TRAVEL AGENTS, SENIOR DEALS

(Discount can be redeemed by booking over the phone or being refunded with proof of membership upon check-in.)

airboat tours central florida

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Sloth Encounter

We put the wild in.

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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.

AN AIRboat tour

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We couldn't have been happier with the sloth encounter that my daughter went to. She is still smiling days later.

Greg noonan, this place is so awesome and gets better and better every year. just did the reptile and porcupine animal experiences and it was unbelievable, the drive through park was awesome. you could stay in your car and be comfortable and really get a close up view of the animals., emona newbold, wild florida airboats & gator park is an absolutely amazing experience for anyone who loves to explore the outdoors and get up close and personal with nature. the airboat rides are thrilling and provide an opportunity to see some of florida's most beautiful and unique landscapes..

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Airboat Rides in Orlando

Experience the Real

Adventure of florida.

Embark on an enthralling adventure with airboat rides in Orlando, Florida.

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Backwoods Air Boat Adventure

Something About Us

Embark on an extreme airboat adventure through the backwaters of Florida down the historical St. Johns River. Bring your camera!! This will be a unique opportunity to be up close and personal to encounter alligators, bald eagles, turtles, a variety of different bird species and so much more.

Ride through the natural habitat through the open waters, marshy grassland, and cypress swamps.

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No. of airboats.

Airboat

If you are visiting Florida, we want to share Florida’s best with your whole family on an exciting Central Florida Adventure with endless miles of beautiful, prestige, wilderness.

Take a thrilling airboat ride where you will encounter an abundance of native wildlife and explore the beautiful swamps and marshes of Florida.

We look forward to sharing Florida's best with you!

Come, Join the Best Florida Airboat Tours With Us!

Whether you are an adventure thrill seeker or wanting a relaxing sightseeing excursion, the St. Johns River is loaded with an abundance of wildlife and an airboat tour is the perfect way to get to experience it all. You will encounter an abundance of native wildlife and explore the beautiful swamps and marshes of Florida. This Central Florida adventure is one the whole family can enjoy! Read more 

$60 Adults  $55 Children

$75 Adults $70 Children

Water Boat Ride

Backwoods Airboat Adventures

Alligator Tours Orlando

You might have seen alligators in aquariums and zoos. But have you seen them in their wild?? Our alligator airboat rides in Florida are led by experienced captains who know all the places to spot gators, from Everglades to the Headwaters – from gator holes to freshwater marshes and swamps. We go above and beyond clichéd airboat tours and ensure you a truly mesmerizing experience. Our captains are fully licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Book an Airboat Ride!

Wilderness Wonder

How Our Airboat Rides in Florida Are Different?

If you are planning to book airport rides near Orlando Florida, look no further! We provide the best airboat tours that let you discover the real Florida in its breathtaking wilderness, untouched by the humdrum of modern living.

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Smaller Boats, Unmatched Excitement

When you are set to explore the wild, it is good to have an intimate experience. Therefore, we use smaller boats, so you can have an exciting tour amidst the tranquility. No more digging through a group of 15-20 passengers! 

Group Boat Tour

An Informative, Guided Tour

Throughout the journey, our captains will give you educational and informative narration of the local ecology through two-way headsets. They also ensure that the passengers are well-versed with the safety guidelines.

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A Real-Life Adventure Experience

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Airboat Rides that Match Your Needs

Are you ready for a mind-blowing adventure? Book an airboat in Orlando, Florida, and set off on a memorable experience of the wild.

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Sunset Airboat Tours Orlando

Want to book the best sunset airboat rides near Orlando, FL ? Look no further than Backwoods Air Boat Adventures! As the sun sets below the horizon, we provide an amazing opportunity to explore the tranquil Everglades and its wilderness for a captivating experience. Picturize… wild alligators, native wildlife, and wading birds around as you ride through the river with the vibrant sky above!! We can vouch it is an experience you will treasure forever.

One Hour Boat Tour

1 Hour Airboat Tour

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1-Hour "Private" Airboat Tour

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Testimonials

Client-1

We had a wonderful airboat ride tour. We saw a lot of alligators, learned some history and experienced all the capabilities of the air boat on land on water and through grass. We saw the awesome alligator infested bald Cedarwoods, Infested with alligators just like in the eerie movies. Chelsea was a great hostess, and a wonderful airboat operator. I highly recommend this tour. This tour was the highlight of our trip to Orlando area.

client-2

What a thrilling adventure !! We saw many large gators, beautiful birds and breathtaking scenery. Chelsea answered our calls and responded back promptly. She made it such a fun trip and stopped a few times to explain the history of the area and the animals. Would definitely highly recommend this trip to everyone. I can check that off my bucket list. Awesome!!

We thoroughly enjoyed our first airboat ride. Chelsea was a great guide, she gave us a lot of background information and pointed out lots of gators, and showed us a gator nursery that she had been watching herself, we were able to see lots of baby gators. If we spotted a gator, she would turn the boat around and try to catch them again for us. We had such a great time, that we will be back.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We cater to our discerning clients with a variety of tour packages, such as –

• 1-hour airboat tour • Private airboat tour • Sunset tours • Group airboat tours • Alligator airboat tour

We use smaller airboats that make it easier to get through nooks and crannies and perfect hiding spots of alligators. For larger groups, we have additional boats to accommodate your needs.

No; everyone can enjoy airboat tours – though kids aged 6 and under must wear life jackets.

The cost will vary based on the type of airboat tour package you choose and the duration. We promise you a wonderful experience at an unbeatable rate.

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Children (2-12): $42.25 plus tax Children (1yr old and under): FREE

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Reserve a captain and a boat for you and your family and/ or business staff.

This safe, exciting, and educational airboat ride is a chance to see the real Florida! Slide across the legendary St. Johns River on USCG inspected airboats. Get an opportunity to see wild alligators, various types of birds, and other wildlife from elevated seating. Your USCG Master Licensed Captain will share his knowledge of the Florida outback through voice-activated headsets. Don't forget to hold "Hollywood" our baby alligator at the end of each tour.

Groups of up to 6 people: $375 plus tax Groups of 7 or more: $62.50 per person plus tax

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Available to groups of 15 or more.

Great for Reunions, Summer Camps, Educational Field Trips, Corporate Events and Church/Youth Groups.

Call for Rates

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Click here to purchase gift certificates

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Join us for an exclusive full-day airboat tour through the renowned St. Johns River Upper Basin Project – a wetland restoration masterpiece! 

*$2,999.00 plus tax for up to six adults. 

Click here to learn more about the St. John's River Upper Basin Project. 

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Come experience an exhilarating adventure on the legendary St. Johns River! We offer Central Florida airboat tours, given by U.S. Coast Guard Master Captains on one of our custom airboats. All our boats are U.S. Coast Guard Inspected and Certified. The river is a natural paradise teeming with wildlife and native vegetation. While you’re here you’ll have the chance to see Florida alligators, bald eagles, otters, blue herons, and other wildlife. Airboat Rides at Midway combines the beauty of nature with the thrill of an airboat adventure!

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Airboat Tours in Orlando, Florida

Take a ride through florida's everglades.

Looking for something other than the concrete jungle? Stop by Wild Willy’s for a thrilling airboat tour and get in touch with Florida in its natural habitat. Glide across the headwaters of the everglades in high-performance 6-passenger airboats and our newly added 14-passenger boat with our licensed and fully insured master captains!

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One-Hour Orlando Airboat Ride

Wild Willy’s One-Hour Airboat Rides are perfect for families looking for unique things to do near Orlando. Book an airboat tour on Lake Tohopekaliga, St. Cloud, to see gators, bald eagles, and much more!

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Glide across the Everglades on a thrilling airboat tour!

Huge alligators, bald eagles, the endangered snail kite, and more await your arrival! We treat them and all of our customers like family. So come on out and surround yourself with nature during one of our popular airboat rides through Florida’s vast everglades! At the end of your educational tour, you have the opportunity to take pictures with our resident alligators: Cricket, Sergio, Blue, and Splash! Come on out and see why we have more airboat ride reviews than anyone in Orlando, Kissimmee, St. Cloud, Tampa, Miami, and even worldwide.

airboat tours central florida

With Over 10,000 Reviews Online, We’re The Most Talked About Airboat Tour Anywhere In The World!

First trip to Florida and this was one of my things to go too. Awesome place for Swap Tours. Great people at the front office with a smile as you walk in. Captain Jim is the man. Very likable and great personality! We got to see an 8’ alligator which was pretty cool. Great job guys!

This was an absolutely great airboat tour. AJ was our guide, who was informative and humorous too! I had a keen interest in birding and he pointed out about 10+ species of birds including 4 bald eagles. We saw about 5-10 alligators during our visit. Would visit again & highly recommend!

Wild Willys was a great Airboat ride through the marshes. Saw several gators and lots of wildlife. The guide was knowledgable about the area and very friendly. The people inside were also very friendly and knowledgable. Definitely recommend.

The one-hour airboat ride was perfect. We saw a variety of wildlife. The speed of the boat (what I really came for) was good, some fast times, some slow times. I chose the 9am time to avoid the sun and heat, and that was perfect too. I highly recommend Wild Willy's.

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  • 1 Hour Airboat Tour
  • 90 Minute Airboat Tour
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airboat tours central florida

Orlando Airboat Tours A Real Florida Experience!

5 Star Rating On Trip Advisor

***SPECIAL NOTES***   We have 6 to 9 Passenger Airboats.  Have more? No Problem, we will start your tour together, see each other out there and return together!  Great way to get pictures!

Reservations Required –  remember to check in 15 minutes before your tour.   Partin Triangle Park  2830 Neptune Rd  Kissimmee, Fl  34744    **Brown Cabin next to the restrooms.

 SPECIAL NOTES–   Please bring hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and water for your tour.     Our airboats are open vessels (not covered) because of where we go to view wildlife, alligators and birds.

We except Debit and Credit Cards ( $4.69 processing fee for credit card)    Due to increased fuel prices, we have temporarily added a 1% fuel surcharge.

Orlando Airboat Tours: Operated by Marsh Landing Adventures

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED 

We offer the closest Airboat Tour and Eco Tour to all of the Central Florida Attractions.  

Here at Orlando Airboat Tours, we run smaller airboats so we can get you into locations the larger, barge type boats can’t get to. Our airboats  are state of the art,  stadium seating open boats which give all passengers an unobstructed, fantastic view of the diversity of wildlife and plant life that call the swamp their home.  Our boats are not covered due to the areas we take our guests.

Our Airboat Adventure Prices are per person:

  • 1 Hour   $55.00 Adults / $50.00 Child
  • 90 Minute  $70.00 Adults / $65.00 Child
  • 2 Hour   $90.00 / $85.00 Child
  • 4 Hour Wilderness Excursion (4 Person Minimum) $175.00 Adult / $165.00 Child
  • Private Tours

Our airboat rides give you the opportunity to experience the real WILD side of Florida.  We want you to see the Florida alligators, wildlife of all kinds, many species of birds, and beautiful flora.

  • Monday – Saturday tours start at 9:00 am, 11:00 am. 1:00 pm,  3:00 pm, and 4:30pm RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
  •  Sundays : Closed

*** You MUST check in at the ticket office 30 minutes BEFORE  your tour time at 2830 Neptune Rd  Kissimmee, Fl 34744 –  Brown cabin next to the restrooms***

Cancellation Policy:  Our tours run rain or shine.  24 Hour notice required for a refund.

Two Hour Airboat Tour

We have smaller boats, so we can get into areas the big barge type boats can’t get to.  For large groups, we have additional boats as needed to accommodate you. The boats depart at the same time and return at the same time. You will have opportunities to see each other and take pictures of each other while you are out in the swamp.

Our captains will stop and talk with you, encourage you to ask questions, let you take pictures, and we also want you to HEAR the wildlife.

We do our tours rain or shine!   We will do a delay if the weather gets bad.  In Florida, if you wait a little bit, the weather gets better!

Not at all. Life Jackets required for kids 6 and under, but all will enjoy our Airboat Tours. Smooth and exciting tour!

Airboat Tours

  • Monday -Saturday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Sundays – Closed

Advanced reservations are required. You can call our ticket office directly from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm,  at 407-572-3561 and someone from our staff will be happy to assist you. Credit cards are required for your reservation and will be charged at the time of booking your tour. There is a $8.69 processing fee. You can also purchase tickets through our website.

Headwaters of the Everglades

Did You Know?

Shingle Creek which is located right here in Central Florida is the Headwaters for the Florida Everglades. Right where we take you on our exciting airboat adventures is where the Everglades start. Come take an exciting airboat ride and see where the largest living estuary in the World starts from a little creek.

Voted "Best" Tour For Central Florida In Orlando Airboat Reviews !

Our ninety-minute ride was everything we had hoped it would been, and it was made even more enjoyable by my comfy bucket seat in the front row (and a carabiner to secure my bag). Captain Wayde was friendly to us guests and, even more importantly to me, respectful of the animal life we encountered. I think that a Marsh Landing Adventures airboat ride is an excellent way to leave one’s everyday world behind and get immersed in Central Florida nature.

Had a fantastic 1hr ride out with Capt Scott what a charmer very funny and knows his stuff for sure, had a wonderful exhilarating ride out into the swamps even had a beer at no charge if you are there in the area its a well worth trip.

We had a boat tour with Captain Chris and honestly if I had the time this holiday I would go again! It was amazing! The marsh was picturesque and full of wildlife. We were even lucky enough to see a few alligators! Our Captain was great ; very friendly and informative! An absolute 10/10.

Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence

We have been voted, in Orlando Airboat Reviews, as the best 90 minute and 2 hour alligator tour in Central Florida.

Be sure to check out the rest of our website to find out more information about the best airboat rides in Florida, purchasing airboat tour tickets online, and making reservations by phone.

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Boggy Creek Airboat Tours

Escape to nature.

Set in an enchanted 32 acre landscaped park with lighted brick pathways along the shore of a beautiful lake where nature is abound. We invite you to experience the ultimate outdoor fun under a canopy of majestic oak trees.  View our juvenile alligators for an up-close and personal view of Florida’s favorite reptile. Watch as they bask in the sun or you can feed our mini-dinosaurs. Experience Lily’s Butterfly Garden, a walk-through enclosure where you can experience the beauty of native butterflies, wildlife and plants of Florida.  Feel like your a miner and see what you can find from semi precious gems, fossils or crystals while sifting through your buckets of soil in our 70 foot long mining slough. View  our authentic Native American village replica featuring the rooms of each member of a traditional Native family and how they survived on the swamps. The village is a living history museum that is perfect for all ages to enjoy. Purchase a delicious meal in our Boggy Bottoms BBQ and enjoy dining lakeside.

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Annual Pass

Enjoy a year of excitement. experience the thrill of airboats, view the beautiful butterfly garden, gator pond and take a walk through history at the native american village.

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Choose From:

Annual park only pass, annual park plus airboat pass.

Tank the Alligator head logo Boggy creek Airboat Adventures

The Best Airboat Tours in Orlando

Choose your airboat experience.

Discover territory that remains unaltered in the wilderness of the Central Florida Everglades. Our captains take you into the breathtaking beauty of nature, including wetlands and wildlife. See alligators, turtles, birds and more in their natural environment. You’ll feel like you’re flying through the wetlands enjoying the best Everglades experience in Central Florida.

$30-$35

1/2 Hour Tour

$50-$55

1 Hour Tour

Explore even deeper into Florida’s natural beauty on this ONE hour adventure….

Seasonal

Private Tour

$58-$68

Sunset Tour

Ride into the sunset on a U.S. Coast Guard approved airboat and see the beautiful view of the sun setting over the lake. You will also have a chance to see wildlife that come out during the day AND at night. This tour has very limited seats so make sure you reserve early!!

$63-$73

$49.41-$93.00

Supreme package.

BEST VALUE: Package includes Lunch, Prospector Gem Mine & Park Admission, Nectar for butterfly feeding, and Souvenir Cup. Add the Supreme Package to a 30 minute, 1 Hour or VIP airboat ride.

Enjoy a wild ride in an airboat and discover the headwaters to the Florida Everglades, just south of Orlando. You will feel like a true miner discovering various gems along our 70-foot mine, experience our Native butterflies, wildlife and plants in our butterfly enclosure. Dine lakeside at Boggy Bottom BBQ. Your choice of 1 side item w/your choice of either a hamburger, hot dog or one of our amazing sandwiches: Pulled pork, BLT, or grilled chicken.

Where to Find The Best Air Boat Tours in Orlando

Boggy creek airboat adventures is located close to disney..

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures are Proud Members of:

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Working Hours

Boggy creek airboat adventures & boggy bottom bbq, 407-344-9550, 7 days a week, thanksgiving, christmas eve, new years eve, are you ready for an adventure.

BUY TICKETS

3702 Big Bass Road, Kissimmee, Florida 34744

Everglades Airboat Tours Orlando

NO RESERVATIONS REQUIRED (GROUPS UNDER 15 GUESTS)

Your adventure, our expertise. airboat tours..

We invite you to be our Special Guest on a Wild Airboat Ride through the Headwaters of the Florida Everglades!

Experience Florida at Gator Airboat Rides

Airboat Adventures Orlando

Adventurous Ride

Gator Airboat Rides is an eco-tourism company in Central Florida with 20+ years experience. We are the closest airboat adventure to all major theme parks and Orlando International Airport. Whether you are visiting Disney, Universal Studios, or the Orlando Convention Center, we are the perfect place to escape the crowds and breathe some fresh, Florida air! Our 30 minute tours are just what you need to top off your Orlando getaway. Get a chance to explore wildlife on our guided tour and enjoy the natural beauty of Florida. Keep scrolling to see the tour description and prices, and purchase your tickets now.

Featured Tickets

Take a boat tour with gator airboat rides in orlando.

Are you looking for something fun to do while you are on vacation in Florida? If so, then you should consider taking an airboat ride. Airboat rides through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades are a great way to get up close and personal with Florida wildlife.  

Gator Airboat Rides, located at 3702 Big Bass Road, Kissimmee, Florida 34744, offers airboat tours in Central Florida. Our airboats are specially designed for comfort and safety, and our experienced captains will make sure that you have a great time on your airboat adventure in Orlando.  

Gator Airboat Rides are the closest to Orlando attractions, and you also get a chance to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Search "airboat tours near me" and you will see we are the most affordable and convenient.

Lowest Prices In Central Florida

Gator Airboat Rides prides itself in offering the lowest prices in Central Florida. Just 6 miles away from Orlando International Airport, and 16 miles from Walt Disney World! You can experience the wild nature of Florida on our tours, with regular sightings of native birds, turtles, flora and fauna, and even the American Alligator! 

If you are looking for something to do while you are on vacation in Florida, be sure to book an airboat tour with Gator Airboat Rides. Call for more information on Airboat Ride tickets in Orlando or order below:

Airboat Tour Packages

Daily, 1/2 hour Tours   9 am - 5 pm

We are a Walk-in attraction!

Adults: $32 (+ tax)

Child (ages 3-12) : $29 (+ tax)

Kids 2 and under, free!

*No reservations unless group is larger than 15 people.

*Last daily tour leaves at 5pm.  

*Average wait time is 15-30 minutes.  

Night Tours

One-hour tour, after sunset. Call for time. *Reservation required.

Come for a night ride to see the alligators when they're most active!

Adults: $63 (+ tax)

Child (ages 3-12) : $59 (+ tax)

Open 7 days a week, 365 days a year!

Lowest Prices! Closest to Orlando Attractions!

Only 16 miles from Disney World and 6 miles from Orlando International Airport.

Only Children ages 12 and under are eligible for Child ticket pricing  

Copyright © 2022, Gator Airboat Rides. All Rights Reserved.

Airboat Tours

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Tom & Jerry's Airboat Rides

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  • From Tampa Bay 75N
  • from Kissimmee & Orlando
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It's A Wildlife Adventure in this Alligator Lagoon on your Airboat Ride!

Birds, turtles, alligators, otters, and much more is what you can find on your airboat ride adventure! 

Scenic Tours of Florida Canals & Lake Panasofkee (321) 689-8918

One the most beautiful and wildlife diverse lakes in Florida. It's the 3rd largest lake in W. Florida with 4,280 of water. An easy drive from Orlando, The Villages, and Tampa Bay areas.

airboat tours central florida

Why Lake Panasoffkee? Escape into the Most Beautiful Canals on this Wild Adventure Airboat Ride

The canals and swamps of the 3rd largest lake of W. Florida provides an incredible backdrop. You are almost certain to see a diverse amount of wildlife as you cruise through the channels of beautiful trees and vegetation. Then buckle up for an epic glide on your airboat ride!

CALL (321) 689-8918

Ready for an epic glide on your airboat ride.

See you later alligator!

68 N Main Terrace, Lake Panasoffkee, FL 33538

(321) 689-8918

Less than 1/2 mile W of I-75 Exit 321 – Easy Drive from Tampa Bay Region, Orlando, Lake County, The Villages

Tom and Jerry's Airboat Rides

Tom & Jerry's Airboat Rides

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An Unforgettable Experience

Howdy and welcome to Switchgrass Outfitters and Airboat tours , one of the most popular and exciting air boat rides in Orlando Florida. Whether you are looking for a scenic airboat eco tour or a once in a lifetime trophy gator hunt, we can accommodate all of your needs and cravings for wildlife exploration. With joyous air boat rides in central Florida that are sure to get you coming back for more, you can get close with some of the indigenous creatures we hold right here, in our backyard.

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With many years of experience, and our passion for the outdoors, you will see how hard we will work to make sure your airboat ride or hunt is a memory you will never forget. Air boat rides in central Florida are extremely popular to tourists and locals alike, and with good reason. We treat everyone as family and offer up some of the best deals around so you can enjoy your day out, have a ton of fun, and still keep your wallet full.

Are you coming down to Florida for your next vacation? Well this is perfect for you and for your family and friends to get up close and personal with some of the most exciting and interesting wildlife you can only see on TV. We are so conveniently located in the heart of central Florida only minutes away from Orlando, Daytona, Cocoa beach, and the Kennedy Space Center, which makes Switchgrass Outfitters a perfect stop along the way during your family vacation. Give your kids something they'll never stop talking about, and treat you and your family to an adventure with one of the greatest air boat rides central Florida can offer. You'll be glad you did!

You need to come take a one of a kind airboat ride and enjoy a great adventure alongside the gators, diverse wildlife, and beautiful scenery of the St. John's River. We offer exhilarating 90 minute Orlando airboat rides that are great for the whole family. During your eco tour we will take you deep into the swamps where the abundance of wildlife is plentiful. Each airboat ride is a unique opportunity to see gators, bald eagles, wild turkeys, deer, hogs, migratory birds, turtles, and all kinds of other critters we come across. As well as cypress swamps, ancient Indian mounds, and beautiful marshes. Our river is untouched with no houses or development and is surrounded by state wildlife parks and protected wetlands. We're extremely happy to give you one of the best air boat rides Central Florida has to offer.

For all the fellow hunters and outdoorsmen, we are also your personal guide service for hunting Florida's unique wildlife. Florida is one state that is packed with game that you cannot chase anywhere else and Florida hog hunting and gator hunting is an experience you just can't pass on. We offer hunting for wild hogs, Gators, Osceola Turkeys, and snipe. Owned and operated by a Seth, he prides himself on maintaining an extremely high success rate for beginners and experienced hunters alike. We offer hunts off Florida's rivers, marshes, and ranches with no pens, ALL FREE CHASE! So come on down to Switchgrass Outfitters and enjoy a day of hog hunting in Orlando that you're sure to never forget!

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  • A-AWESOME AIRBOAT RIDES

The Original Florida Adventure

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  • VIRTUAL RIDE / PHOTOS

A-AWESOME AIRBOAT RIDES | (407) 568-7601

Take a Central Florida Airboat Ride and see Florida Alligators and other native wildlife up-close. This unforgettable adventure is waiting for you right here only minutes away from downtown Orlando. A-Awesome Airboat Rides is located close to all of the Central Florida attractions as well as Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Cocoa Beach, Titusville, The Kennedy Space Center (Cape Canaveral) and Orlando. We will take you on an amazing airboat ride away from the crowds of Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World…

Come explore the beautiful scenery and native Florida Wildlife of the historic St. Johns River right in the heart of Central Florida! An A-Awesome Airboat Ride provides enjoyable and educational experiences exploring the marshes of the Scenic St. Johns River on a REAL air boat ride in the Central Florida Everglades. You will see the unspoiled Florida, in all its splendor!

Enjoy a 90 minute tour, that will take you far away from the crowds, on the St. Johns River and deep into the swamp on your airboat with Captain Gator Bruce. Captain Bruse is a Central Florida Native and is very experienced and knowledgable of the history and the wildlife of the St. John’s River.

See and take pictures of the St. Johns River (the Central Florida Everglades) and native Florida wildlife in their natural habitats from the comfortable seats of Captain Gator Bruce’s custom designed Air Boat. The Airboat has been designed with comfort and safety in mind and includes voice activated headphones so you can hear all about what you are seeing without hearing the noise of the Air Boat engine or the noise of other Air Boat engines that might be on the water.

Unlike some of the other Florida Airboat tours available that take up to 30 people, A-Awesome Airboat rides take a maximum of 6 passengers on each of our Florida Airboat Tours. This allows us to provide you with a much more personalized airboat ride and tour and lets us take you places that the bigger bus like airboats can’t go.

Take a Central Florida Airboat Ride with A-Awesome Airboat Rides and you will get to see Florida Alligators and other Native Florida Wildlife up-close and in person. This unforgettable Florida airboat ride adventure is waiting for you right here in the Orlando Attraction area of Central Florida. We will take you on an amazing Florida Airboat Ride away from the crowds of Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World. Less than an hour from Orlando area attractions and theme parks. Also, only about 15 minutes from the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex.

Come explore the beautiful scenery and native Florida Wildlife of the historic St. Johns River right in the heart of Central Florida! An A-Awesome Airboat Ride provides enjoyable and educational experiences exploring the marshes of the Scenic St. Johns River on a REAL Florida Airboat Ride in the Central Florida Everglades. You will see the unspoiled Florida, in all its splendor!

During your 90 minute round-trip tour wildlife can jump up right in front of you!!! Expect to see native and migratory birds, White-tail Deer, Wild Turkey, Otters, Bald Eagles, Sand Hill Cranes, Herons, Wild Boar, Osprey and plenty of Alligators.

Note: Every effort will be made during your airboat ride to show you just as much of the unspoiled native wildlife as possible. But we can’t make any guarantees on just what you will see during your air boat ride. Each of our air boat rides is unique, we are touring by boat on the St. John’s River and through natural Florida swamps, none of the wildlife you see will be in pens, so we don’t know what we will see on each air boat ride.

Captain Gator Bruce of A-Awesome Airboat Rides is a US Coast Guard Certified Florida Airboat Captain and has been guiding boat tours on the historic back waters of Central Florida since 1997.

It is often said that imitation is the most sincere from of flattery; well take a look around and see how many others are doing what Captain Gator Bruce has been doing for years. Captain Bruce has been an innovator and set the standard on airboat tours and on his web site. He was the first to offer voice activated headphones, was the first to provide virtual tours on the web and now many others are doing the same. So I guess Captain Gator Bruce must be doing something right when so many others want to be like Captain Bruce and A-Awesome Airboat Rides!!!

Go ahead and check out the others, Captain Gator Bruce is confident that you;ll be back, just like most of his customers…it was so much fun they want to go again and again and again.

VIRTUAL RIDE AND PHOTOS

airboat tours central florida

ORLANDO AIRBOAT RIDE RATES

A-Awesome Airboat Ride Boats can accommodate 6 passengers per boat. If you have a large party and need multiple boats we can handle that.

90 MINUTE AIRBOAT TOUR

Maximum of 6 passengers per boat, please call [407] 568-7601 for our best rate.

Rates subject to change

CONTACT CAPTAIN GATOR BRUCE FOR ORLANDO AIRBOAT RIDES

Captain Gator Bruce of A-Awesome Airboat Rides wants to hear from you. If you have any questions, want additional information or are ready to schedule your tour, call Captain Gator Bruce today at:

[407] 568-7601

Captain Gator Bruce is on the waters of the scenic St. John’s River virtually everyday, so the best time to call him is after dark. If you call and are unable to reach Captain Gator Bruce, please leave a message. You are very important to him and he will call you back (usually within 30 minutes) even if he is on the water, he will call you back.

If you are ready to schedule your tour it would be helpful when you call to have the following information available:

  • Number of Passengers
  • Desired Date and Time of Tour

Captain Gator Bruce will do everything he can to make sure you have an enjoyable, safe and memorable tour. He is proud of his these waters and wants to share them with you.

Capt Duke's Airboat Rides

  • Airboat Rides
  • Sunset Tours
  • About Capt Duke's

The Experience

airboat tours central florida

The Thrill of the Sunshine State

No doubt, Everyone loves the thrill of our Airboat Rides & Swamp Tours! Why not take one of our thrilling rides down the historical St. Johns River? You will venture through swamp and marshy grasslands of the Orlando area, only accessible by airboat. As a lifelong Central Florida native; Captain Duke offers a colorful history of the area.

Of course, while you’re on one of our airboat tours you will probably come face to face with alligators, snakes, turtles, birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. As a matter of fact, many alligators are being seen on our tours right now!

We See More Than Gators on Our Airboat Rides!

While many travelers are acquainted with the many theme parks in and around Orlando, we want to showcase another side of Florida. The awe and wonder of nature on the St. Johns River! With a plethora of wildlife in their natural surrounding, making it the perfect airboat tour for the entire family. Obviously many travelers are acquainted with the well-known theme park attractions of Orlando. With this in mind, we want to showcase a different side of Florida that many travelers have yet to experience.

airboat tours central florida

Authentic Florida

Home » Things To Do » 14 Best Airboat Rides in Florida (2024)

14 Best Airboat Rides in Florida (2024)

Last Updated on January 26, 2024

Airboat rides are a great way to see wild Florida. Experienced captains steer airboats and act as tour guides through bodies of water.

Best Airboat Rides in Florida 2023

You can see local wildlife like Florida alligators and species of birds (even bald eagles) in their natural habitat.

Florida Orange Bird on Airboat Ride

If you are looking for an exciting airboat tour, we’re recommending the best airboat rides in the Sunshine State.

There are options in every region of Florida.

women on airboat ride in Sebring

So, buckle up, put on noise-cancelling earphones (usually provided by the tour) and prepare for a thrilling ride.

12 Top Airboat Rides in Florida

Table of contents, wild thang airboat tours – panama city beach, airboat rides in north central florida , crazy fish – jacksonville, ozello boats – crystal river, wild willy’s airboat tours – st. cloud, airboat wildlife adventures – sebring, wild florida – kenansville, airboat rides & gator charters – de leon springs, captain jack’s airboat tours – everglades city, everglades alligator farm – homestead, everglades safari park – miami, gator park airboat tours – miami, additional airboat tours recommended by our readers, airboat rides in northwest florida  .

Wild Thang Airboat Tours

Wild Thang Airboat Tours boasts of having “the most experienced U.S.C.G. master captains in the area.”

Located in Panama City Beach, the company offers 30-minute and 60-minute tours through the bay.

Nighttime airboat ride with Wild Thang Airboat Tours

You might get to see dolphins, alligators, manatees, and more.

They also offer an ultimate night ride – a completely different experience where you take an airboat night tour after the sun sets.

Wild Thang Airboat Tours

Wild Thang Airboat Tours’ operating hours are dependent on tour schedules. Reservations are required. Tickets are available for adults and children 2 and up. Children under 2 are not allowed on airboat tours.

For more information, visit the official website of  Wild Airboat .

Wild Things Airboat Tours Address : 14856 Bay View Cir, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Apalachicola Airboat Excursions – Apalachicola

Driver with Apalachicola Airboat Excursions

Apalachicola Airboat Excursions allows guests an airboat adventure on the Apalachicola Bay, river, and estuary system. You may even see alligators, turtles, and other native wildlife.

They offer 60-minute rides, 90-minute rides, and beautiful sunset cruises.

Alligator on an Apalachicola Airboat Excursion boat toar

Apalachicola Airboat Excursions’ operating hours are dependent on tour schedules. Reservations are required. Tickets are available for adults and children 3 and up.

Apalachicola Airboat Excursions group on an airboat

For more information, visit the official website of Apalachicola Airboat Excursions. 

A palachicola Airboat Excursions Address : 2 Bay Ave, Apalachicola, FL 32320

While you’re in the area, make sure to check out a  Getaway to Authentic Apalachicola .

Airboat Rides in Northeast Florida 

airboat and captain

Crazy Fish takes you on an exciting airboat ride through Jacksonville-area marshes, wetlands, and creeks.

You might even see Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, wild alligators, otters, and birds on their 90-minute eco-tour and airboat adventure. 

Alligator

Crazy Fish is open daily. Reservations are required. Tickets are available for adults and children of all ages.

Crazy Fish Airboat Tour

For more information, visit the official website of  Crazy Fish .

Crazy Fish Airboat Address: 6359 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226

While you’re in the area, make sure to check out our favorite Things to Do in Jacksonville .

Airboats in Central West Florida 

airboat tour in water

See real Florida on an airboat tour on the Crystal River with Ozello Boats in Crystal River, FL . The company offers a great time with 60 and 90-minute tours.

Cruise through a river of grass in only inches of water on Homosassa and Crystal River.

River Adventure Boats

Ozello Boats is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Tickets are available for adults and children of all ages.

For more information, visit the official website of  Ozello Boats . 

Ozello Boats address: 2355 S Ripple Path, Crystal River, FL 34429

While you’re in the area, make sure to   Swim with a Manatee and Experience Authentic Crystal River, the Soul of Florida

Airboat Rides in Central Florida 

airboat docked

Wild Willy’s Airboat Tours is a St. Cloud company that offers 60-minute awesome airboat rides across the headwaters of the Everglades.

Cruise around Lake Tohopekaliga with an experienced guide and see local wildlife like blue herons, alligators, and bald eagles.

Alligator Wild Willy Airboat Tour

They also offer private tours and after-hours tours (seasonally.)

Wild Willy’s Airboat Tours is open daily. Tickets are available for adults and children 3 and up. Children 2 and under are admitted for free.

Wild Willy's Airboat Tours

For more information, visit the official website of  Wild Willy’s Airboat Tours . 

Wild Willy’s Airboat Tours Address:  4715 Kissimmee Park Rd, St. Cloud, FL 34772

While in the area, check out the 10 Best Things to Do in St. Cloud FL (Osceola County)

Airboat ride in Sebring Florida

Airboat Wildlife Adventures  is located in Sebring and is another great option for a Central Florida airboat ride.

They offer 90-minute tours on Lake Istokpoga and Arbuckle Creek. Day and nighttime tours are available. 

They offer unofficial “Spring Break” or “Senior Citizen” style tours. In other words, wild and crazy or mild.

Airboat Wildlife Adventures’ operating hours are dependent on tour schedules. Reservations are required.

View from the boat on Airboat Wildlife Adventures

For more information, visit the official website of  Airboat Wildlife Adventures .

Airboat Wildlife Adventures Address: 4971 US-98, Sebring, FL 33876

airboat tour in water

Wild Florida is an Orlando-area attraction located in Kenansville. Airboat tours take you through Central Florida swamps, rivers, and marshes.

They offer 30-minute tours, 60-minute daytime tours, 60-minute nighttime tours, and 60-minute private tours day and night.

Wild Florida Safari Gator Park and Airboat Tour

Tours include admission to Wild Florida’s Gator Park, which is home to over 200 animals. Other ticketed attractions include a drive-thru safari park and unique animal encounters.

Wild Florida Airboat

Wild Florida is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Tickets are available for adults and children 3 and up. Children 2 and under are admitted for free.

Wild Florida Airboat

For more information, visit the official website of  Wild Florida Airboats . 

Wild Florida Address: 3301 Lake Cypress Rd, Kenansville, FL 34739

If you love alligators, check out the 8 Florida Alligator Parks You Won’t Want to Miss .

Airboats in Central East Florida 

Airboat & Gator Charters

Airboat & Gator Charters is a De Leon Springs company that exclusively offers private airboat tours.

See remarkable sights like sunsets, full moons, and native wildlife.

Airboat & Gator Charters

Enjoy a personal and unique experience of a private tour through the St. Johns River, Lake Jesup, and other bodies of water.

Airboat & Gator Charters

Airboat & Gator Charters operating hours are dependent on tour schedules. Reservations are required.

For more information, visit the official website of  Gator Charters .

Airboat Rides and Gator Charters Address: 760 Tedders Ct, De Leon Springs, FL 32130

Airboat Rides in Southwest Florida 

aerial shot of airboat in water

Captain Jack’s Airboat Tours is a South Florida attraction located in Everglades City . They offer 80 and 110-minute mangrove airboat tours through mangrove tunnels, grasslands, and a cypress forest.

They also have swamp buggy tours where you travel the area in a raised buggy.

airboat tours central florida

Before or after your tour, check out Captain Jack’s animal sanctuary. The sanctuary includes over 100 rescued animals, including alligators, tigers, and otters.

Alligator eating crab

The sanctuary hosts an hourly alligator show where you can learn all about the American alligator. 

Captain Jack’s Airboat Tours is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Tickets are available for adults and children.

Captain Jack's Airboat Tour

For more information, visit the official website of  Captain Jack’s Airboat Tours .

Captain Jack’s Airboat Tours Address: 905 Dupont St, Everglades City, FL 34139

While you’re in the area, make sure to check out our tips for  Exploring the Extraordinary Florida Everglades .

Airboat Rides in Southeast Florida 

Everglades Alligator Farm

Everglades Alligator Farm is South Florida’s oldest alligator farm. The attraction is located in Homestead near the entrance of Everglades National Park .

They offer 20 to 25-minute airboat rides and extended private tours with a 45 to 60-minute tour.

Everglades Alligator Farm Airboat

The tours take you on a fun ride through the Everglades’ sawgrass prairies.

Everglades Alligator Farms Alligator Show

In addition to airboat tours, you can see alligator shows and feedings – both are included in general admission. 

Everglades Alligator Farm is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Tickets are available for adults and children.

For more information, visit the official website of the  Everglades Alligator Farm. 

Everglades Alligator Farm Address: 40351 SW 192nd Ave, Homestead, FL 33034

While in the area, don’t miss the 5 Best Things to Do in Homestead, FL .

Everglades Safari Park

Everglades Safari Park is another great option for Everglades airboat rides, located approximately 40 minutes from Miami.

The park offers 30 to 40-minute airboat rides and private 40 and 60-minute rides.

Everglades Safari Park

All airboat rides include admission to the park’s Wildlife Nature Show. It also gives you access to the Jungle Trail, Observation Platform, and exhibits.

There is also an onsite café and a gift shop to check out. 

Everglades Safari Park

Everglades Safari Park is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Tickets are available for adults and children.

For more information, visit the official website of  Everglades Safari Park . 

Everglades Safari Park Address: 26700 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33194

While in Miami, don’t miss 8 Adventures in Awesome, Authentic Miami .

airboat tour

Gator Park Airboat Tours also offers airboat tours through the Florida Everglades from Miami.

Tours take you through canals and rivers of grass with opportunities to spot alligators, birds, and turtles out in the wild.

Airboat

Airboat rides and a wildlife show are included in admission to the park.

Gator Park Airboat Tours

Gator Park Airboat Tours is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Tickets are available for adults and children 6 and up. Children 5 and under are admitted for free.

For more information, visit the official website of  Gator Park . 

Gator Park Address: 24050 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33194

Camp Holly Airboat Rides & Fish Camp – Melbourne

Camp Holly Airboat Rides sign with alligator on top

Camp Holly Airboat Rides & Fish Camp in Melbourne, FL , was established in 1901. It includes a tiki bar, gift shop, boat launch, and live music.

This place was recommended by several readers and Authentic Florida social media followers. It’s on our bucket list this year. They have a loyal following.

Camp Holly Address: 6901 US-192, Melbourne, FL 32904

Grape Hammock Airboat – Lake Wales

airboat leaving Grape Hammock Fish Camp at sunrise

Grape Hammock Fish Camp is another place we have received numerous emails and messages from our social media readers about.

It’s on our bucket list to check out this year and report back our findings.

Grape Hammock Boat A Cade Lunch old sign on the water

Grape Hammock Fish Camp is a family-owned and operated fish camp on the south end of Lake Kissimmee in Lake Wales .

Address: Grape Hammock Fish Camp, 1400 Grape Hammock Rd, Lake Wales, FL 33898

If you enjoyed this article about the best airboat tours in Florida and are looking for a few other recommendations, check out these suggestions.

  • 5 Best Glass Bottom Boat Tours in Florida
  • 7 Places to Discover in Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands
  • 11 U.S. National Parks in Florida You’ll Love
  • 8 Florida Alligator Parks You Won’t Want to Miss
  • Discover New Adventures in the Manatee Capital of the World

2 thoughts on “14 Best Airboat Rides in Florida (2024)”

Grape Hammock Airboat tours can also be a great option specifically for their amazing guided tour with captain Kevin.

Camp Holly by far should be in top 10!!!

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Central Florida Airboat Tours

Photo of Central Florida Airboat Tours - Cocoa, FL, US. Middle of the tour

Review Highlights

Jacquelyn And Austin F.

“ Captain Bruce was extremely entertaining and friendly, made you feel like you have known him your whole life. ” in 7 reviews

Chris O.

“ We were able to spot some bald eagles and a group of gators sunning themselves. ” in 3 reviews

Sandi L.

“ Bruce also recommended we try the gator bites back at the Jolly Gator Fish Camp Restaurant, and they were delicious! ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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Map

8190 W King St

Cocoa, FL 32926

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About the business.

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Dustin and Ronnie R.

Business Owner

The Space Coast's airboat tour that explores the beauty and nature of the St. Johns River in Cocoa, Florida. Along this ride, you can expect to see many different creatures including alligators, turtles, frogs, countless species of birds, fish, plants, and maybe even Bigfoot . The serene environment will relax you as you take in all that nature here has to offer, and at the same time having the thrill of riding Winding trails, shallow waters, and swamplands on the airboat that will keep you wanting to see more and more. …

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Photo of Diana G.

OMG we had a wonderful time! Dusty was our Captain, he was very funny! He made us laugh! He was so knowledgeable about the area, the plant life, and the wildlife. He knew just how to rouse the alligators to get them to surface. It was so exciting. We felt safe during the entire trip, was not sure what to expect being so close to alligators. We are not in Florida often, but will definitely remember Central Florida in the future. Diana and Mario G from Albuquerque

Photo of Brent B.

5 stars for a heck of an airboat ride experience. My wife and I used to live in Florida, but we moved up to DC due to work a few years ago. One of the few "Florida things" we missed getting to try during our time down there was riding an airboat. Fortunately, we were down visiting her parents during the COVID pandemic and saw that Central Florida Airboat Rides, located in Geneva off Route 46 near Lake Harney, was operating and offering 30 minute rides for $20 and 60 minute rides for $40. After booking 30 minute rides for the family a few days before, we headed over to the venue around noon on a Saturday. The business operates in conjunction with Jolly Gator Fish Camp, so we pulled up to find tons of boats in a huge parking lot. We proceeded up to the boating area and met Captain Bruce. He has been operating the business for decades and owns what was described to me as the "Cadillac of Airboats." After a brief introduction, we hopped on board, put on the ear protectors, and headed out. I discovered over our 30 minute ride that Cadillac is the right way to describe this airboat because it can fly and boy is it smooth when transitioning back and forth from land to water. Captain Bruce took us around the St. Johns River and around a huge marsh area and made it seem like we were riding on a cloud. We encountered rain for a few minutes, which was rough, but he was able to steer us out of it pretty quickly and find alternate routes to avoid the rain. We got to see a couple alligators, some birds, and other various wildlife as we boated around. We then arrived back at our starting point, paid him for his time, and wished him farewell. Overall, a ride with Central Florida Airboat Rides is a great way to see and experience the outdoors in Florida (and is a great and safe activity during the COVID pandemic) for a very fair price. I would highly recommend catching a ride the next time you are in the area.

Middle of the tour

Middle of the tour

Photo of Ray B.

Took an hour tour with Central Florida Airboat Tours. Rod was our captain and did a great job. We saw tons of alligators, several bald eagles, some Roseate spoonbills and several other waterfowl. The airboat ride was great. Rod gave us plenty of great information but also gave us time 2 enjoy the quiet of nature. Highly recommend this tour.

Photo of Central Florida A.

Central Florida A.

Apr 7, 2022

Thank you Ray for your wonderful review! Hope to see you again in the future.

Photo of Kim O.

I've been out with Captain Bruce four times now because each time someone comes to visit, we make sure this is a part of the stay. An airboat tour is the perfect way to see the true Florida; this is a fascinating land of waterways, wildlife and unrefined beauty. To embark on such a tour at the headwaters of Florida's main river, the St. John's, is even better, as its significance takes on an almost maternal feel there. But to experience this in the expert hands of Capt. Bruce is what makes it extra special. Capt. Bruce's first impression might be of a quiet and less than humorless man; the truth is actually much different. Not only is he a memorable and likable gentleman, he's truly adept at what he does, both in piloting an airboat like a dancer and in his knowledge of area waterways and wildlife. And his knowledge is broad. There's not a bird or creature he can't name and has first spotted with an almost bionic eye. What does one see on a Central Florida Airboat Tour excursion? Bald eagles, flamingos, a dozen other bird species, turtles, horses and livestock that call the marshland their home, and plenty of gators (small, large and enormous). Who knows what you'll see? There's a snack bar/restaurant near the dock. The bolder of your group can try gator tail. Do yourself a favor and experience Capt. Bruce's airboat tour - you'll be happy you did and you'll never forget it. Bring your camera!

Photo of Jacquelyn And Austin F.

My husband and I came here while vacationing in Daytona. He had never been on an airboat ride before and let me tell you, we were both impressed! Captain Bruce was extremely entertaining and friendly, made you feel like you have known him your whole life. We booked a longer tour with him on a cooler day so we were not expecting to see a whole lot of wildlife. We walked down to the boat with about 20-30 minutes before our tour and he welcomed us and chatted for a bit before telling us we can get started whenever everyone else is ready! You can tell he genuinely cares about the satisfaction of his guests, even turning around during the tour if any of us pointed something out that we had seen. We ended up observing a ton of gators, enjoying the fun facts he shared and his spur of the moment tricks on the boat! Would definitely come back here before going anywhere else!

airboat tours central florida

See all photos from Jacquelyn And Austin F. for Central Florida Airboat Tours

Photo of Chris O.

Fantastic spur-of-the-moment experience. Saw the Gator restaurant from the highway and decided to u-turn and go there for lunch. The airboat rides are a separate company but Captain Bruce stops right down the hill from the restaurant. After eating, I just went down and asked if we could take a ride. It was just my son and me. We had no reservations and lucky for us the weather was perfect and he had no other reservations. He charged us $50 for a 30 min ride which was appreciated since usually it's 3 minimum for $60 with a reservation. We were able to spot some bald eagles and a group of gators sunning themselves. The ride was great and the perfect way to spend part of an afternoon. I'm now an airboat fan. Can't wait for the next one!

Photo of Allison H.

What an amazing day filled with incredible memories to wrap up our Florida experience! Dustin was a great guide! I have never seen so many crocodiles. The boat was super safe and by far my favorite adventure. Highly recommend getting the full experience from a very knowledgeable team that knows the water like none other. Thank you Central Florida Airboat Rides and Tours!

Photo of Traci H.

My family and I did the one hour ride. We saw so many gators and birds. This was one of the coolest experiences I have ever had! Thank you so much for an unforgettable time!

airboat tours central florida

This was recommended to me by a friend and she was right! This was the best thing we did during our week in Orlando. It was a nice break in the middle of the theme park frenzy. It felt like we were the only ones there (besides the gators, birds and cattle). Did not see another boat or person during our tour. Captain Bruce was fantastic with his narration and boat skills. Was such a blast. I would recommend this to anyone and everyone!

airboat tours central florida

My first time visiting Florida-- I only had 2 days. So my friend and I booked a 1 hour tour and had a great time! Captain Bruce is very knowledgeable and friendly. He made sure we saw many alligators, and tons of bird life. It was beautiful, and really fun to boot. Bruce also recommended we try the gator bites back at the Jolly Gator Fish Camp Restaurant, and they were delicious! Thanks Bruce for making my trip to Florida complete!

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Come Ride the River!!!

(we are not on a lake)

Serving central Florida for 39 years

***reservations only ***.

PLEASE MAKE A RESERVATION

You MUST arrive 30 M INUTES   prior to your reservation to check-in.

Customers not arriving 30 minutes prior will lose their reservation, and it will be given to walk-ins.  

*****  WINTER SPECIAL *****

1 hour adventure.

ADULTS      $54 .95   $41.50 +tax*

KIDS 3-10   $44.95    $32.00 +tax*

(2 and under free)

*All coupons and discounts have been applied to  WINTER SPECIAL

Expires 4-20-2024

 ***** 1 HOUR PRIVATE RIDE *****

***** limited time offer *****.

$75.00+tax   Per Person

— Minimum 4  People —

_______________

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Captain Jack's Airboat Tours

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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

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Everglades National Park Boat Tour

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Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour

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Boardwalk (Included)

Mangrove maze airboat tours.

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

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  • Mangrove Maze Ultimate Combo

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  • Mangrove Maze Airboat Tour

Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Combos

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  • Total Everglades Combo

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Mangrove Tunnel & Grassland Combo

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Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

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Private Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

Mangrove tunnel airboat tours.

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

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  • Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

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  • Private Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

Grassland airboat Tours

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Grassland & Buggy Combo

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  • Grassland Airboat Tour

4 Attractions Included with All Our Tours

When you book direct.

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Animal Sanctuary

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Alligator Show

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Hug an Alligator

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Why Choose Captain Jack’s?

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Local Roots

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Safety & Experience

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Two-Way Headsets

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Alligators & Animals

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Quietest & Comfiest

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Personal & Popular

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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 & Grassland Combo
  • Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo
  • Private Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo
  • Grassland & Buggy Combo
  • Lodging Nearby
  • Total Everglades Stay & Play
  • Animals & Alligator Show
  • Everglades City Boardwalk

Florida airboat flips sending 9 passengers into gator-infested waters, operator arrested

airboat tours central florida

An airboat tour in the Florida Everglades capsized sending passengers overboard on Friday, officials say. This happened when the airboat's driver took a sharp turn to try to see an alligator in the water, according to multiple reports.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said three units responded to a waterway near Coopertown The Original Airboat Tour in the Everglades Friday afternoon. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, nine people and the operator all fell into the water when the boat took a quick turn.

By time MDFR arrived, everyone had climbed out of the water, and only one patient was treated for injuries on the scene.

But the boat's operator was arrested after FWC said he did not have the proper documentation necessary to operate the boat. His employer, Coopertown, did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for comment Monday morning.

Miami tour accidents: More than a dozen injured after tour boat and charter boat crash in Miami waters

Boat passengers say they were afraid of alligators in water, reports state

Passengers told Local 10 the boat operator was trying to get a closer look at a nearby alligator when the airboat flipped.

“My first thought was panic, I was afraid for my wife and family members, and then I thought about the alligator,” passenger Jose Maldonado told Local 10.

NBC Miami said the boat was partially submerged in the water and some passengers were standing on top waiting for help.

Alligator mating season runs from early April until the end of June, when the Sunshine State sees more activity and they become more aggressive.

Contributing: Lianna Norman, USA TODAY NETWORK - Florida

IMAGES

  1. 90-min Everglades Airboat Tour in Central Florida Orlando

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  2. Top Airboat Tours in Central Florida

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  3. Central Florida's Best Airboat Ride

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  4. Alligators Unlimited Airboat Tours

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  5. What To Bring

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  6. Airboat Tours

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COMMENTS

  1. Airboat Tours

    Thank you for visiting, and we hope to see you soon. Later alligator. 1-Hour Airboat Ride $60. 1-Hour Private Airboat Tours $300. A private tour/ride will be reserved for your group only, up to 6 passengers. 2-Hour Private Airboat Tours $500. A private tour/ride will be reserved for your group only, up to 6 passengers. Book a tour with us.

  2. 4 of the Best Airboat Rides in Central Florida

    1. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures. The Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offers four different airboat ride tours for guests. Guests can also do private events and get togethers on site. 2. Airboat Rides at Midway. Airboat Rides at Midway offers different airboat tours and experiences for guests. Nestled between Orlando and the Kennedy Space ...

  3. Top Airboat Tours in Central Florida

    Alligator Cove Airboat Tours. Take an exciting 2-hour airboat ride with Captain Andy of Alligator Cove Tours in Lake Wales. During your tour, you'll glide across the Kissimmee Basin and see Mother Nature at her finest. You won't be passing by large houses or loud party boats because this is a very rural part of Central Florida.

  4. Wild Florida Airboats

    Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park is an absolutely amazing experience for anyone who loves to explore the outdoors and get up close and personal with nature. The airboat rides are thrilling and provide an opportunity to see some of Florida's most beautiful and unique landscapes.

  5. Backwoods Airboat Adventures

    Our alligator airboat rides in Florida are led by experienced captains who know all the places to spot gators, from Everglades to the Headwaters - from gator holes to freshwater marshes and swamps. We go above and beyond clichéd airboat tours and ensure you a truly mesmerizing experience. Our captains are fully licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard.

  6. Orlando's Original and Best Airboat Ride

    Contact Us. Thank you for visiting Airboat Rides at MIDWAY's website! We would love to hear from you! Airboat Rides at Midway. 407-568-6790. 28501 East Colonial Drive Christmas, FL 32709.

  7. Wild Willy's Airboat Tours

    One-Hour Orlando Airboat Ride. From $45. Wild Willy's One-Hour Airboat Rides are perfect for families looking for unique things to do near Orlando. Book an airboat tour on Lake Tohopekaliga, St. Cloud, to see gators, bald eagles, and much more! Book Now.

  8. Kissimmee Swamp Tours

    They offer both inshore and offshore trips starting at $500. Welcome to the #1 Airboat Tour in Central Florida. Come experience the wildlife at the Headwaters of the Everglades on Lake Kissimmee. Come see what we mean when when say, "We're not just another airboat ride." (407) 436-1059.

  9. Everglades Tours & Airboat Rides

    Private Tours. Our airboat rides give you the opportunity to experience the real WILD side of Florida. We want you to see the Florida alligators, wildlife of all kinds, many species of birds, and beautiful flora. Monday - Saturday tours start at 9:00 am, 11:00 am. 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, and 4:30pm RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Sundays : Closed.

  10. Home

    Add the Supreme Package to a 30 minute, 1 Hour or VIP airboat ride. Enjoy a wild ride in an airboat and discover the headwaters to the Florida Everglades, just south of Orlando. You will feel like a true miner discovering various gems along our 70-foot mine, experience our Native butterflies, wildlife and plants in our butterfly enclosure.

  11. Everglades Premier Airboat Tour

    AIRBOAT NATURE TOURS. No Houses, Boat Docks, Marinas, Water Skiers, or Jet Skiers... You are in the headwaters of the FLORIDA EVERGLADES. Book Now. (863) 696-0313. Central Florida's Premier Everglades Airboat Tour! Step on to our AIRBOAT and back in time, and see the Florida Everglades of yesterday!

  12. Home

    Airboat rides through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades are a great way to get up close and personal with Florida wildlife. Gator Airboat Rides, located at 3702 Big Bass Road, Kissimmee, Florida 34744, offers airboat tours in Central Florida. Our airboats are specially designed for comfort and safety, and our experienced captains will ...

  13. Tom & Jerry's Airboat Rides

    Scenic Tours of Florida Canals & Lake Panasofkee (321) 689-8918. One the most beautiful and wildlife diverse lakes in Florida. It's the 3rd largest lake in W. Florida with 4,280 of water. An easy drive from Orlando, The Villages, and Tampa Bay areas. ... Tom & Jerry's Airboat Rides

  14. Switchgrass Outfitters & Airboat tours

    Howdy and welcome to Switchgrass Outfitters and Airboat tours, one of the most popular and exciting air boat rides in Orlando Florida. Whether you are looking for a scenic airboat eco tour or a once in a lifetime trophy gator hunt, we can accommodate all of your needs and cravings for wildlife exploration. With joyous air boat rides in central ...

  15. A-Awesome Airboat Rides

    A-AWESOME AIRBOAT RIDES | (407) 568-7601 Take a Central Florida Airboat Ride and see Florida Alligators and other native wildlife up-close. This unforgettable adventure is waiting for you right here only minutes away from downtown Orlando. A-Awesome Airboat Rides is located close to all of the Central Florida attractions as well as Daytona Beach,

  16. Rides And Rates

    Come Explore the Swamp with us! Available Rides & Rates. Reminder - 20% gratuity is customary for excellent service. 1-Hour Airboat Ride $60/adult & $45/child ages 10 & under. Half-Hour Airboat Ride $45/adult & $30/child ages 10 & under. 1-Hour Private Airboat Tours $300 A private tour/ride will be reserved for your group only, up to 6 […]

  17. The Experience

    As a lifelong Central Florida native; Captain Duke offers a colorful history of the area. Of course, while you're on one of our airboat tours you will probably come face to face with alligators, snakes, turtles, birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. As a matter of fact, many alligators are being seen on our tours right now!

  18. 14 Best Airboat Rides in Florida (2024) • Authentic Florida

    Airboat tours take you through Central Florida swamps, rivers, and marshes. They offer 30-minute tours, 60-minute daytime tours, 60-minute nighttime tours, and 60-minute private tours day and night. Tours include admission to Wild Florida's Gator Park, which is home to over 200 animals.

  19. CENTRAL FLORIDA AIRBOAT TOURS

    16 reviews and 17 photos of Central Florida Airboat Tours "So for my birthday I wanted to do something different. So my girlfriend, buddy and I went on an air boat ride with Bruce our navigator. This isn't one of those 16 person commuter air boats, no sir, this is a 502 V8 500+ horse powered air boat. If you don't know what that means it is equivalent to riding in a sup'd up camaro as opposed ...

  20. Alligators Unlimited Airboat Tours

    Right here in CENTRAL FLORIDA on the KISSIMMEE RIVER. ... This guarantees your EVERGLADES AIRBOAT TOUR to be personal and powerful! ADDRESS. 14400 Reese Dr Lake Wales, 33898. CONTACT INFO. [email protected] 863-696-0313. Visit Website. TripAdvisor Traveler Rating. 1082 reviews. MAR 28, 2024 11:30:13.

  21. Wild Bill's Airboat Tours

    Serving central Florida for 39 years ***RESERVATIONS ONLY *** PLEASE MAKE A RESERVATION. You MUST arrive 30 MINUTES prior to your reservation to check-in. Customers not arriving 30 minutes prior will lose their reservation, and it will be given to walk-ins. ***** WINTER SPECIAL *****

  22. Home

    Take Mangrove and Grassland Everglades Airboat Tours, Swamp Buggy Rides, see Live Alligator Shows and visit our Animal Sanctuary. Everglades City Boardwalk Now Open! 239-695-4400. Book Online. Book Now. Book. create unforgettable Everglades memories at captain jack's! ... —C. from Florida

  23. About Us

    Central Florida Airboat Tours There's Wildlife That Awaits You. The St. Johns River is teeming with wildlife! Our captains are all licensed by the US Coast Guard and have all received their airboat operators certificates, also years of experience driving the airboats ensures a fun ride with keeping everyone safe a top priority. Hunting, fishing, […]

  24. Manatee Adventure, Airboat, Lunch, Wildlife Park with Transport

    Central Florida Everglades Airboat Tour from Orlando. 52. Airboat Tours. from . $99.00. per adult. LIKELY TO SELL OUT* One-Hour Airboat Ride Near Orlando. 160. Airboat Tours. from . $59.13. per adult. Day Trip to Clearwater Beach with Optional Lunch & Transport From Orlando. 83. Full-day Tours. from . $100.00.

  25. 17 Everglades Airboat Tours That Are Worth Taking

    UPDATE: 2023/01/07 22:50 EST BY AARON SPRAY. More Everglades Airboat Tours Worth Taking. There is no shortage of airboat tours to choose from all across the state of Florida.

  26. Airboat flips in Florida Everglades after driver takes sharp turn for

    TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Several people were rescued from an airboat after it flipped on its side in the Florida Everglades Friday afternoon. According to NBC affiliate WTVJ, the boat overturned ...

  27. Florida airboat capsizes, passengers fall into waters with alligators

    0:04. 1:24. An airboat tour in the Florida Everglades capsized sending passengers overboard on Friday, officials say. This happened when the airboat's driver took a sharp turn to try to see an ...