boat tour of everglades national park

THE 10 BEST Everglades National Park Boat Tours

Boat tours in everglades national park.

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1. 60 min. Everglades Airboat ride & pick-up ,small group +pro guide

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21. Depart from Miami to discover the Everglades with Airboat tour included!

22. Private Yacht Tour W/Captain See the Millionaire's Homes & Miami in a unique way

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24. Miami Full Day Self-Guided Sightseeing Tour w/ Cruise and Everglades Airboat

25. 52' Yacht Rental in Miami Beach with Experienced Captain

26. Up to 34Pax Yacht Party Rental & Boat Party in Miami Beach All In

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29. Full-Day Private Everglades and Miami City Tour

30. Private Tour of Everglades National Park

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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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create unforgettable Everglades memories at captain jack's!

Zip through Everglades City on airboat tours

Venture through a cypress forest on a swamp buggy

Get a chance to see wild alligators, birds & more

Stay safe and comfortable 

See alligators & animals up close

Hold a baby alligator

Take home gifts and memories

Everglades National Park Boat Tour

Mangrove Tunnel & National Park Combo

Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour

Mangrove maze airboat tours.

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

• Mangrove Maze Ultimate Combo

• Mangrove Maze Airboat Tour

Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Combos

• Total Everglades Combo

Mangrove Tunnel & Grassland Combo

Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

Private Mangrove Tunnel & Buggy Combo

Mangrove tunnel airboat tours.

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

• Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

• Private Mangrove Tunnel Airboat Tour

Grassland airboat Tours

Grassland & Buggy Combo

• Grassland Airboat Tour

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Animal Sanctuary

Alligator Show

Hug an Alligator

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Local Roots

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Alligators & Animals

Quietest & Comfiest

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Guests love us.

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

—C. from Florida

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

—J. from Massachusetts

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

—K. from Florida

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

—J.T.

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

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A Guide to Everglades National Park: The Best Boat Tours, Alligator Lookouts, and Local-Loved Fruit Stands

By Matt Kirouac

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Despite the fact that South Beach is barely an hour’s drive away,  Everglades National Park is a vast, immersive wilderness that feels like a world of its own. A far cry from the hustle and bustle of Miami, the mighty River of Grass—so named by conservationist and author Marjory Stoneman Douglas, describing its billowing sawgrass marshes and swampy waterways—protects 1.5 million acres of uniquely Floridian flora and fauna. While climate change and early developers have dwindled these once-mightier wetlands, fed at a trickle pace by Lake Okeechobee in central Florida, it’s still the largest subtropical wilderness in the country. National park status was given in 1947 to protect this delicate landscape from further drainage. 

Nowadays, Everglades, the third largest national park in the lower 48 states, is the only place on Earth where crocodiles and alligators coexist, and alongside rare Florida panthers, manatees, dolphins, sharks, and invasive pythons—in a sea of coastal mangrove forests, labyrinthine waterways, pine flatwoods, murky swamps, and sawgrass marshes so endless that early explorers coined the forever-sounding word “Everglades.”

Below, you’ll find everything you need to know for a visit to Everglades National Park. From the best time to visit to the boat tours that best showcase this wonder, consider this your definitive guide to the crown jewel of Florida's national parks . 

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Everglades National Park's Shark Valley observation tower 

Alligator in Everglades National Park

When to visit Everglades National Park

While most parts of the country see all four seasons, there are really only two in Everglades National Park: dry and wet. During the dry season, from December through March, humidity is at its lowest, rain is rarer, mosquitos wane, and temperatures are comfortably warm, with average highs of 77 degrees Fahrenheit and average lows of 53 degrees. The most popular months for the park’s one million annual visitors, this is also the season when wildlife is most active; animals like alligators, deer, and wading birds congregate around lingering water holes. With increased visitation, though, comes increased demand for campsites, ranger-guided tour slots, rentals for equipment like kayaks and canoes, and parking, thus necessitating advanced reservations across the board. 

The wet season, conversely, transforms the Everglades into a watery wonderland. Aligning with hurricane season, from May through November, this is when thunderous weather is more likely (afternoon downpours are a common, albeit fleeting, occurrence), humidity is over 90 percent, mosquitos and flies are swarming, and temperatures soar to average highs of 90 degrees. Higher water levels also mean wildlife is more dispersed, and ranger-guided programs drop off as some facilities enter a seasonal hibernation. Despite the drastic weather changes, a visit in the summer has its pros too: lusher landscapes, decreased crowds, prime boat tour conditions, and opportunities to spot more alligators in the water, rather than on dry land. 

The best things to do in Everglades National Park

Unlike some of the iconic national parks in the west, with their soaring peaks and deep canyons, Everglades is the type of national park where water is the star. Yes, there are hiking trails, but most are short and all are flat—Florida, after all, is the  flattest state in the country . A majority of the trails are aquatic ones, for paddle sports and boats. Canoeing and kayaking are popular excursions, and guests are able to bring their own , or rent from within the park, at the  Gulf Coast area or  Flamingo . The Gulf Coast teems with tree-lined paddle trails, including the five-mile Sandfly Island Loop and those along Turner River. From the Flamingo area, paddlers have the opportunity to see crocodiles as they wind their way up Buttonwood Canal to Coot Bay, or out into Florida Bay, where Bradley Key is the only island available for landing.

Boat tours and rentals are also available throughout the park, with excursions to the Ten Thousand Islands from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, or back country boat tours to Whitewater Bay from Flamingo Marina. Airboat tours, meanwhile, are operated by three permitted outfitters near Shark Valley:  Coopertown Airboats ,  Everglades Safari Park , and  Gator Park .  

For those who prefer dry land, there are still plenty of options throughout the park. Anhinga Trail, close to the east entrance nearest Miami, is a crowd-favorite 0.8-mile boardwalk loop through a sawgrass marsh, where visitors are practically guaranteed to see an alligator or two (including some those that typically sun-bathe right next to the trail in the dry season). While you won’t see any sharks in the Shark Valley section of the park, located smack dab in the inland midst of the park’s sprawling marshland, you’re highly likely to spot alligators basking along the 15-mile paved loop road that leads to a 70-foot observation tower. Said tower is accessible via narrated tram rides or bike rentals, both from the Shark Valley Visitor Center. In the Flamingo area, at the southern nexus of the Florida coastline, trails include the bay-hugging Guy Bradley Trail, where manatee sightings are common, and the Coastal Prairie Trail, one of the longer treks in the park at 7.5 miles one way along a defunct road to a quiet beach.  

Bakers Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton

Where to stay in Everglades National Park

Camping in the park is a great way to immerse yourself further in the solitude and serenity of this subtropical wilderness. The largest campground in the park, Flamingo Campground is a Wi-Fi-less escape with 274 tent sites and 65 RV sites, along with glamping Eco-Tents. There are no proper lodging facilities in the park, but  houseboat rentals are available from Flamingo Marina, allowing up to six guests to literally sleep on Whitewater Bay. For something more primitive, paddlers and boaters can pitch tents on elevated riverside camping platforms called chickees ( permits are required ). 

Matt Ortile

Kaitlin Menza

Kelsey Glennon

Lauren Burvill

Outside of the park, comfortable accommodations can be found near all of the entrances, including cottage suites at  Port of the Islands Resort near Everglades City, and all manner of chain properties between the main Ernest C. Coe Visitor Center and Miami . A bit more luxe,  Baker’s Cay Resort is a tropical paradise on nearby Key Largo. The Davidson Resorts property draws guests with its bay-front suites, two pools, dock-to-dish dining, a tiki bar, and one of the only sandy beaches on the Keys. 

What to do nearby

An apt pitstop outside the east entrance of the park,  Robert Is Here is the self-described “Disney World of fruit stands,” featuring an array of tropical fruits and a milkshake counter where guests can mix and match produce like guava, mamey, jackfruit, dragon fruit, banana, coconut, and canistel. 

Between Everglades and Miami is another smaller national park that flies a lot further under the radar. One of the most aquatic parks in the country,  Biscayne National Park is 95 percent water, awash with shipwrecks, more nautical wildlife than  Finding Nemo , and the largest coral reef in North America. Guided boat tours take guests to different keys for on-land outings, but most activities are wetter, like snorkel reef tours and stand-up paddle boarding through mangroves mazes at Jones Key. 

North of the park, the  Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge affords more opportunities for dry-land hiking in the Big Cypress Basin. Although panther sightings are rare and unlikely, the refuge allows visitors to trek through their native habitat, including along the 1.19-mile Panther Trail. 

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• 45 minutes from Naples
• 75 minutes from Fort Myers
• 90 minutes from Miami
• 3 hours from Tampa
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• 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.
• Consider bringing sunblock, bug spray, sunglasses, a hat, and water.
• If rain is forecasted, we recommend bringing a poncho.
• We are always on the lookout for manatees, sea turtles, osprey, shore birds, and dolphins.
• You might also spot alligators, raccoons, manatees and more at the Everglades City boardwalk, an attraction that is included with your tour.
• 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.
• Yes. The boat is accessible via a ramp from the dock. The boat's deck has space for wheelchairs next to its bench seats. Learn more about accessibility .
• Pets and emotional support animals are not permitted on the 10,000 Islands Boat Tour, but ADA service animals are permitted. Learn more about our ADA service animal policies .

Meet the Animals of Everglades National Park!

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Everglades National Park | 10,000 ISLANDS BOAT TOUR

• PARK AT A GLANCE
• VISITOR CENTERS
• FLAMINGO AREA
• GULF COAST AREA
• ROYAL PALM AREA
• SHARK VALLEY AREA
• BOAT LAUNCHES
• GUIDED TOURS
• PICNIC AREAS
• WILDLIFE VIEWING
• DIRECTIONS / CONTACT

10,000 Island Boat Tour

The 10,000 Islands Boat Tour leaves from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center at Everglades National Park and runs year-round. This tour lasts 1.5 hours and takes you six miles out to the Gulf of Mexico through the islands in Chokoloskee Bay. See the Everglades Florida Adventures website for the current tour price, schedule, and to make reservations. You can also make a reservation by calling (855) 793-5542. Guest Services, Inc. is the authorized concessionaire that runs the tours.

Entering the 10,000 Islands at Chokoloskee Bay

The tour’s biggest draw is the chance to see dolphins. In fact, you might as well call it a “dolphin spotting tour,” because that’s what everyone on the boat wants to see, though sharks and manatees are also a thrill. On the tour I went on, we saw dolphins right out of the gate and plenty more all the way across the bay. The Florida Bay Boat Tour , which is held down in the Flamingo Area , is basically the same tour, and I saw plenty of dolphins there as well. By the time I was done, I’d seen so many dolphins that they might as well have been dogs. You get to the point where you don’t even want to bother standing up to see them. The guide did tell me that if it has been stormy, the dolphins are harder to find, so book your tour during a spell of nice weather if possible.

Dolphin playing in the wake of the tour boat

Bird watchers will also delight at the vast array of species that can be seen in the bay—pelicans, herons, osprey, bald eagles, cormorants. I saw my first bald eagle on this trip.

Cormorant drying its wings

White pelicans

The islands are called the 10,000 Islands (there’s actually about 5,000 more), and half the reason for such a large number is because some aren’t any bigger than a few yards across. It is interesting to see islands that are nothing more than one mangrove tree growing in the middle of the water.

Three of the 10,000 Islands

If you have already done the Florida Bay Tour and saw enough dolphins to be content, then there is no reason to do both tours unless you have time and money to spare, or simply love dolphins. Likewise, if you paddled out to the islands in Chokoloskee Bay and were fortunate enough to see dolphins and manatees up close and are happy with that, no need to spend time here. Seeing dolphins and other wildlife is definitely the main attraction of the 10,000 Islands Boat Tour.

See the Gulf Coast Area Wildlife Photos web page for a complete gallery of all animals I saw while in the Gulf Coast Area.

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Smallwood Store Boat Tour

Fun & intimate everglades sightseeing boat tours, real deal everglades trips with local experts, eco, island and everglades national park sunset tours.

Come and experience Florida’s last frontier and the abundance of wildlife it has to offer. There are many options to choose from including our Everglades Eco, Fakahatchee Island and the historical Bloody Watson day tours. If you’re around in the afternoon, why not hop on our Sunset Cruise and enjoy the sun setting over Chokoloskee Bay while flocks of birds fly over to roost in the Rookery, truly a photographer’s dream. With over 300 species of birds this is a bird watcher’s paradise . You can also expect to see a spectacular variety of other wildlife including dolphins, manatees, gators and much more. Once you’ve had fun on the water, visit our historic Smallwood Store Museum & Gift Shop – ranked by TripAdvisor as the number one attraction in the area. So, what are you waiting for? Come tour Everglades National Park by boat with us!

Everglades Eco Tour

Bloody watson tour, fakahatchee island tour, sunset cruise, fun for all ages, spectacular wildlife viewing, local expert knowledge, why customers love our tours, tripadvisor.

Fabulous – the untouched, natural beauty of this area is so precious. We saw dolphins jumping, many different birds including roseate spoonbills, a huge stingray jumped very high out of the water. This tour is definitely worth the ride down to Chokoloskee Island. (…)

Smallwood Boat tour with Tristan. What a spectacular area, made even more amazing with our guide/driver, Tristan Daniels. Tristan can give you the history of this land of 10,000 islands in a way you won’t find in a book. He knows and respects this area he grew up in—we will be back and definitely as for him again.

Tristan was fabulous! He’s very knowledgeable and personable. He knew where we would see dolphins, a manatee, and multiple different birds. The one hour tour was a fantastic experience. I highly recommend sailing with Tristan.

My son and a friend of mine and myself went to the Smallwood store. Corey was amazing. We learned so much history about the everglades. He was very friendly and knew so much about such a beautiful place. We decided to take a boat tour with Corey. We made the right choice. We loved it so much that we are going again. One week later. And Corey is definitely always going to be our tour guide.

For six generations, Smallwood Store Boat Tours has provided an expertly-guided experience of the Everglades on the southernmost tip of Chokoloskee Island. Visitors from all over the world enjoy our comfortable, quiet and shaded 6-passenger boats daily, allowing them to experience the Everglades and its wildlife in all its natural beauty. We pride ourselves on being a Florida-owned business that cares for its environment and our boats are USCG approved with first aid and safety equipment on board.

Museum & Gift Shop

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Get in Touch!

Planning a trip to the Everglades? Don’t hesitate to get in touch and let us help you with your itinerary and logistics.

The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

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

The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Ride

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

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

40 minute Private Eco-Adventure Airboat Ride

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

60 minute Private Eco-Adventure Airboat Ride

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

60 minute Private Sunset Airboat Tour

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

The Original Eco-Adventure Airboat Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Private Eco-Adventure Tour

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

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

Private Jungle of Wilderness Tour

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

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

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

Searching For The Perfect Deal? Look no further!

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

On Vacation & Need A Ride? We Can Help!

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

Top 7 Things to do in the Everglades

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

History of Airboats

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

Ultimate Guide: Animals of the Everglades

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

The Ultimate Guide to Everglades National Park

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

Park Information

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

Number of Children (10-15) travelling?

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

THE 10 BEST Everglades National Park Boat Tours

Boat tours in everglades national park.

• Hiking Trails
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Biking Trails
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Bayside Marketplace
• Art Deco Historic District
• Dolphin Water Sport
• Miami Design District
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 60 min. Everglades Airboat ride & pick-up ,small group +pro guide

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3. Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Experience with roundtrip transfer

4. Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours

5. Everglades National Park Biologist Led Adventure: Cruise, Hike + Airboat

6. 2Hr Private Boat Rental in Miami Beach with Captain and Champagne

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9. Everglades National Park Biologist Led Hike, 2 boat trips + lunch

10. Miami Combo: City Tour, Biscayne Bay Cruise and Everglades Airboat Ride

11. Everglades Tour in Miami

12. Four Hour 45 Yacht Tour in Miami Beach with Captain and Champagne

13. Everglades Express Small Group Tour from Miami with Airboat Ride

14. 2Hr Private Boat Rental Miami Beach see the Homes of Millionaires & Celebrities

15. Everglades Airboat with or without pick-up

16. Boat & Yacht Tour Amazing Sandbar Adventure, Water Toys & Snorkel

17. 50' Yacht Rental in Miami Beach with Captain and Champagne

18. The Ultimate Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show and Transfer

19. Private 4-Hour Exciting Everglades Tour

20. Depart from Miami to discover the Everglades with Airboat tour included!

21. Private Yacht Tour W/Captain See the Millionaire's Homes & Miami in a unique way

22. 4Hr 45' Private Yacht Tour in Miami Beach, Captain & Champagne

23. Miami Full Day Self-Guided Sightseeing Tour w/ Cruise and Everglades Airboat

24. Guided Airboat Ride & Tram Tour in Everglades

25. 52' Yacht Rental in Miami Beach with Experienced Captain

26. Up to 34Pax Yacht Party Rental & Boat Party in Miami Beach All In

27. Miami: Everglades Airboat Ride with City Tour and Cruise Add on

28. 52' Yacht Activity in Miami Beach with Boat Rental and Party

29. Full-Day Private Everglades and Miami City Tour

30. Private Tour of Everglades National Park

What travellers are saying.

Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Photography Expedition - 3.5 Hours

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"The Quiet Alternative to Airboats"

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Things to Do by Everglades National Park Boat Assisted Kayak Eco Tour in Naples, Florida

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Biscayne National Park Institute at Coconut Grove

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3400 Pan American Dr

Miami, FL 33133

Coconut Grove

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Amenities and More

About the business.

The true beauty of Biscayne National Park is that it offers a different experience for each visitor and we can help you gain a deeper connection with the park’s history and habitats. Programs range from a few hours to a day in length, and highlight the park’s amazing wildlife, rich history, and awe-inspiring marine ecosystems. Join us for guided and exciting educational eco experiences that can include snorkeling, wildlife watching, and exploring the islands. …

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100% recommend them for all your tours and experiences of Biscayne National Park. I'm not sure how fast their experiences normally book up, but we came during a high tourism season, so we were lucky to still get a spot on the Boca Chita Key Tour a couple weeks in advance. We had wanted to do one of their snorkeling tours, but that was all booked up - so definitely plan your trips with them in advance. Their Boca Chita Key Tour was a great way to experience the big hits that Biscayne National Park has to offer. We were lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins swimming around while boating in. Stiltsville was so unique with an interesting history, so it was really cool to get to see these houses closer up. And Boca Chita Key is beautiful with an easy walking trail and calm, blue waters perfects for dipping into. Since it's only accessible by boat, even though we went during a high tourism season, there were was not that many people there. Much better for exploring and enjoying nature. Steffon and Emily were INCREDIBLE on our trip and made it so much fun. Emily was so knowledgeable about Biscayne National Park and was so fun to listen to as she talked about its history and all the fun stories behind it. Not to mention that the two of them seemed to really enjoy their job, which made the tour all the more fun. They do a good job of balancing the size of the tour groups - big enough to be effective for them, but still small enough that there was plenty of extra space on the sold-out boat so everyone was not crammed together and the ride was enjoyable. Not to mention, it was only about $85/person - which we didn't think was too bad considering the only way to see most of the park IS by boat. Definitely plan plenty of time to get there because parking can be a bit confusing and is then a short walk. And keep in mind that where you meet is NOT at the visitor center, but at a Marina about an hour away from the visitor center. If you want a great experience while exploring Biscayne National Park, the Biscayne National Park Institute is definitely the way to go.

We enjoyed the excursion to Boca Chita. Bot Captain Jeff and naturalist, Emily, were really helpful, informative, and fun. My husband got confused and it took us longer to find parking, they tried to contact him and waited for us patiently. Very kind of them Emily is very knowledgeable and was accessible and friendly to all. They made the whole experience really enjoyable. I highly recommend the Biscayne National Park Institute

See all photos from Adriana F. for Biscayne National Park Institute at Coconut Grove

Very nice tour with captain Hermes and naturalist Juan. It's a slower pace than what my wife and I usually do but was an easy paced tour and exposed us to the history of the park, which is not that old, and somewhat strange. Florida national parks are unlike the other national parks. The trip itself was a good choice for the exposure to and experience the park.

We very much enjoyed our cruise to Stiltsville and Boca Chita Key! Jana and Captain Mo were both awesome and very knowledgeable. It was very cool to learn about the history of the places we saw, and it very much made us wish we were around in the heyday of both places! We are from Cleveland and Captain Mo brought up that the founding mother of Miami, Julia Tuttle, was from Cleveland, so it was really cool to learn about that piece of history. We had a small group of five for our cruise, so it was basically like having the boat to ourselves. It was really awesome and the other two parties were very friendly and we all enjoyed each other's company. When cruising from Stiltsville to Boca Chita, we saw a pod of dolphins! It was so incredible to experience that and see the dolphins swimming alongside our boat. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip and would highly recommend it. Thanks, Jana and Captain Mo! :)

Really enjoyed our paddle boarding adventure!! Marty was the best! Definitely recommend 10/10

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