Try Boggy Creek Airboat Rides
Florida Guide > Other Activities
If you are looking for a way to spend a few hours or to get away from the heat on a hot Orlando day, why not try an airboat ride at one of the Boggy Creek locations?
The most convenient location for visitors to the Walt Disney World area is situated in Southport, at Lake Tohopekaliga 19 miles south of the 192. To reach this location leave the 192 at Poinciana Boulevard and travel south passing many of the communities that are popular on the Orlando Villas website. Regular visitors to the Orlando Villas forums will recognize names such as Terre Verde, Indian Point and Crescent Lakes. Leaving the communities behind you will pass through scenery reminiscent of the English countryside, with cattle grazing in the fields.
Boggy Creek is on the left hand side of the highway and is clearly signposted. Plenty of parking can be found directly outside the ticket office. Reservations not usually necessary for the basic 30 minute tour, although tickets can be purchased in advance at great rates from Orlando Park Tickets,
http://www.park-tickets.com alternatively just turn up and purchase them from the Boggy Creek office when you arrive. There is also a 45 minute private tour which does not require reservations. The one hour night tour needs to be booked in advance.
Boats run regularly, every 30 minutes and if you have to wait a short while for your boat you can view the baby alligators in their pen and can even purchase alligator food to feed these babies. There is also a small shop selling refreshments and souvenirs.
Seats on the airboats are on a first come first served basis. There are no “dry” seats although in good weather spray is minimal, lifeboats are optional for adults and compulsory for children and ear mufflers are available and recommended. The captain will give a short safety talk before leaving the dock.
The pace is initially slow as you idle out in to the open waters, passing through reeds and bulrushes, home to various waterfowl. You may also pass slowly along the shoreline where Spanish moss hangs from the trees and dips into the water. Your guide will point out nests, homes of American bald eagles and osprey. Out on the open waters the speed of the craft will increase as you set off on the hunt for alligators. Your guide will usually know where to find them and will impart his knowledge of their habitat and lifestyle to you. Depending upon the weather, and the time of year, the size and number of alligators seen will vary.
On return to the landing dock, be sure to tell the captain if you would like to sit in his seat for a photo opportunity. Back on dry land there are more opportunities to be photographed holding a small alligator. Photographs can be purchased straight away, in various sizes and the proceeds are ploughed back in to alligator conservation. Holding an alligator is an opportunity not to be missed and you may be surprised by its feel and weight. . . . . . . . go on, I dare you! !
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