Airboat tours

Question

Hi, I am looking for an airboat tour in the Shark Valley area. I have no interest in a reptile show and I don't want to hold an alligator- I just want an airboat tour. We are travelling in December and we are 2 adults, no kids. Suggestions?

Answer

If you are focused on the airboat experience in the Shark Valley area of Everglades National Park and want to avoid shows or handling alligators, there are a few operators and options to consider. Shark Valley itself is more known for its tram tours and biking paths, but nearby areas just outside the park have airboat tours on the Everglades’ waterways.

Some options for purely airboat tours without gimmicks:

Everglades Safari Park: Located near Shark Valley access, this park offers standard airboat tours ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. They focus on wildlife viewing and scenic rides.
Gator Park Airboat Tours: Just outside the Everglades National Park entrance, they provide airboat rides focused on natural scenery and spotting birds and alligators from a distance. No shows are mandatory, so you can simply enjoy the ride.
Coopertown Airboats: Traditional Everglades airboat experience emphasizing wildlife and wetland scenery. They have small tours suitable for couples and avoid forced photo ops with animals if requested.

Tips for your December visit:

Book in advance as winter is peak tourist season.
Wear layered clothing since mornings can be cool, but the airboat ride itself can be windy.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from sun reflection off the water.
Check each operator’s website or call ahead to ensure the tour avoids shows or handling if that is a priority.

Overall, focusing on tours slightly outside Shark Valley proper will allow you to enjoy a traditional airboat experience without distractions or shows, giving you an authentic glimpse of the Everglades ecosystem.

Airboat tours

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