Which is best alligator (boat) tour originating from Orlando/central FL?
We have been to the Everglades.
Next week, my family and I will be taking my mother-in-law for the first time to Orlando. On one of the days, we want to show her some alligators in a natural habitat. My wife and I have been to Gatorland, and although one can see a number of alligators, we do not feel they are in a natural environment.
Which boat tours, originating from central FL (not too far from Orlando) would you suggest where the chances of seeing the alligators is high.
Around Columbus Day weekend, what time of day can you see alligators in a complete profile, perhaps lying on the river banks?
Next week, my family and I will be taking my mother-in-law for the first time to Orlando. On one of the days, we want to show her some alligators in a natural habitat. My wife and I have been to Gatorland, and although one can see a number of alligators, we do not feel they are in a natural environment.
Which boat tours, originating from central FL (not too far from Orlando) would you suggest where the chances of seeing the alligators is high.
Around Columbus Day weekend, what time of day can you see alligators in a complete profile, perhaps lying on the river banks?
Boggy Creek Airboat Rides http://www.bcairboats.com/ is close to Orlando and does a decent job. However, your best chance of seeing gators would be at dusk or dawn - possibly even their night tours, although taking photos would be much more problematic then. Airboat rides are also available at the Lone Cabbage Fish Camp http://www.twisterairboatrides.com/ which is located at the Orange County/Brevard County Line at the St. Johns River on SR 528 (AKA "The Beachline"). This location is farther away than the Boggy Creek.
I have taken guests to both locations and they have not been disappointed. Cannot really say which is "best", however neither will compare with the Everglades. My suggestion would be to call each and have them tell you about what your chances of seeing gators would be. I am assuming you want to see more than just one? If you want to see a lot of gators, Gatorland remains your best bet.
The one place in Florida where I have seen more and bigger gators than anywhere else in the state is at Cape Canaveral and KSC. The bulk of the property is a wildlife refuge, and you stand an excellent chance of seeing a large number of gators and other wildlife (deer, bald eagles, manatees, dolphins, and more).
If you take the "Then and Now" tour, which covers more ground than the regular tour, you stand the best chance of seeing more animals, as well as a good bit of history.
Boggy Creek Airboat Rides http://www.bcairboats.com/ is close to Orlando and does a decent job. However, your best chance of seeing gators would be at dusk or dawn - possibly even their night tours, although taking photos would be much more problematic then. Airboat rides are also available at the Lone Cabbage Fish Camp http://www.twisterairboatrides.com/ which is located at the Orange County/Brevard County Line at the St. Johns River on SR 528 (AKA "The Beachline"). This location is farther away than the Boggy Creek.
I have taken guests to both locations and they have not been disappointed. Cannot really say which is "best", however neither will compare with the Everglades. My suggestion would be to call each and have them tell you about what your chances of seeing gators would be. I am assuming you want to see more than just one? If you want to see a lot of gators, Gatorland remains your best bet.
How about the Aquatic Adventures Airboat tours - see tripadvisor link:
