scenic boat tour in winter park

• Join us for an 18 passenger boat tour on the pristine Winter Park chain of Lakes
• Tours Leave Every Hour from 10am-4pm
• Last Tour Leaves At 4:00 p.m.

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• Scenic Boat Tour – A Lovely Form of Entertainment

Scenic Boat Tour of Winter Park Florida offers a unique, informative and relaxing experience for anyone looking for some entertainment while visiting Orlando or Winter Park. You can sit back and enjoy the views of large waterfront mansions and learn about some of the residents past and previous.

Scenic Boat Tour is a different pace from the popular Disney experience offering you culture, history an all around enjoyable experience. Winter Park is a fun town with plenty of exclusive shopping and the boat tour is just minutes away with tours leaving at every hour.

Enjoy and fun and affordable entertainment.

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Scenic Boat Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Scenic Boat Tour - Winter Park

• 312 East Morse Boulevard Winter Park, FL 32789
• (407) 644-4056

Relaxing, narrated, one-hour cruise through three of the seven lakes and two narrow manmade canals of historic Winter Park. The only 'true' way to see the beauty of Winter Park. The dock, less than 5 minutes from Park Avenue, Central Florida´s popular, upscale shopping district, is conveniently located on the East end of Morse Boulevard on Lake Osceola.

• On any given tour, participants may observe large cranes swooping waterside to snag a large fish or a lazy alligator languishing on a nearby bank.
• Every tour guarantees plenty of swaying palms, towering cypress trees, lush ferns and a variety of flourishing sub-tropical flowers.
• Breathtaking views of opulent private homes and exquisite estates sprawling along the shores are also a key feature of the scenic cruise.

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Scenic Boat Tour

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Review Highlights

“ Our captain Tom was very knowledgeable and told us many interesting stores, that of Rollins College , Mr. ” in 26 reviews

“ Starting off in Lake Osceola , the boat goes over to Lake Virginia, back to Osceola and over to Lake Maitland. ” in 10 reviews

“ Very charming way to see one of Orlando 's hidden gems, the chain of lakes that sits in the middle of Winter Park. ” in 26 reviews

Location & Hours

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312 E Morse Blvd

Winter Park, FL 32789

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Easy, Inexpensive and Exciting, Winter Park's Scenic Boat Tour in a Natural Attraction! We offer a 1 hour guided tour through the chain of lakes in Winter Park, FL. Tours leave every hour on the hour from 10 am until 4 pm. See beautiful homes, wildlife and learn some history of Winter Park. Adventuresome for the first time visitors seeking flora and fauna or savvy Orlando travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path vacation experience won't be disappointed when they discover the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. Every tour guarantees plenty of swaying palms, towering cypress trees, lush ferns and a variety of flourishing sub-tropical flowers. Breathtaking views of opulent private homes and exquisite estates sprawling along the shores are also a key feature of the scenic cruise. …

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Do you need to make reservations for the tour? Or is that just for parties of 10 or wheelchair access?

Large parties need reservations

How is the tour for kids, ages 11 and 9?

Well, it depends. It is fun because you are on a boat and the boat goes through some narrow canals and goes fast at times. I imagine the narration won't be too exciting to younger kids. It is only an hour, so it depends on their attention span I… more

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241 reviews

What a fun little adventure right in the middle of Winter Park. We were a group of four friends on a girls weekend looking for some local flavor. The boats leave every hour and for $20 you can't go wrong. Find out about the chain of lakes surrounding the area and see some amazing homes and scenery and Rollins College. Our driver was Wendell and he had the stories and jokes to make the hour go by fast and enjoyable. If you're wondering where the rich live this is a view into the backyards of gorgeous lakefront estates. The stories are interesting and the views are great. Depending on the temps it can windy or cooler on the water. Highly recommend!

Captain Tom "Cruise" made our Saturday so much fun! From telling the best dad jokes to giving us incredible history fun facts of the area, this is definitely a perfect activity for friends, couples or solo!

After a couple of days at Universal, my mom, stepdad, and I decided to spend a day in Winter Park. Our last activity before dinner was a scenic boat tour on the Winter Park chain of lakes. It was amazing, such a wonderful experience - especially on a beautiful day! I highly recommend it - but here are some details I think are important to share. All tours are first come, first serve. Tours leave every hour between 10am and 4pm. It's a popular thing to do on a weekend day when the weather is nice. We showed up twenty minutes before the tour we wanted to be told they only had tickets for the last two tours of the day. So we bought tickets for the last tour of the day, left did some other things, and came back later! Our boat driver was friendly and funny and shared a lot of great info about the lakes system! It was gorgeous out on the lakes and the narrow canals for the boats to pass through were amazing. What a great way to spend an hour in Winter Park!

See all photos from Alexis B. for Scenic Boat Tour

A must do if you are in the area! I have seen tons of "hidden Florida" videos and blogs and this Scenic Boat Tour in Winter Park is ALWAYS on the list! A true gem. And hour tour through 3 lakes and 2 canals with wonderful local and historic facts to entertain. We happened to go on a gorgeous day! They can sell out for time slots and it's cash only- my advise, pick a time and go first thing in the morning to book your slot. Parking is limited, and a bear- so arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially if you are meeting other there- make sure your entire party arrives early to park. We had 2 groups get pushed because they weren't all present for boarding. This company has things down- they are smoothly running tours in and out between 10am and 4 pm. We had 4 boats going out when we toured. I think we could easily do this tour again in the future! Wonderful staff and great fun on the water!

See all photos from Crystal O. for Scenic Boat Tour

This boat tour has been around for quite a while (apparently the oldest attraction in FL) I remember doing this tour as a kid too. The tour takes you through the Winter Park Chain of lakes on a pontoon boat and points out some notable homes and architecture. We went with a group for the Holiday lights edition of this tour. Many of the homes on the various lakes are quite large and expensive, and naturally many of them do quite a nice holiday light decoration lakeside. Out group required 3 boats that went and followed one another through he tour. Our tour guide was fervently and personable. The whole tour was about and hour long and waste quite enjoyable to see some fantastic lights and large trees through huge windows. I recommend the boat tour for sure, but idk you are doing a night version for the lights - its is pretty nice!I he tour also visits Rollins. College front he lakeside and makes note of the architecture there too. t tends to be a little cooler on the water, so dress appropriately. It was a little windy the night we went....I was fine with Jeans and a long sleeve dress shirt, but honestly I could have stood to have another layer on heaven here in FL! Just be aware of the weather and dress appropriately.

See all photos from Steven H. for Scenic Boat Tour

5 Stars for a wonderful way to spend an hour in Winter Park! The Winter Park Boat Tour runs 364 days a year (all but Christmas day) and as the weather cools down, this is the time to enjoy it. What: This is a pontoon boat tour of the channel of lakes around Winter Park. It takes your through small, charming channels that are surrounded by boat houses and gorgeous homes, as well as the open lakes where you get to see how the 1% live. Besides gawking and picking your dream home, the guide will take you on a voyage through history to point out notable sites (ex: Mr. Rogers' home). The tour guides clearly love their jobs because they are always so funny and informative! How: You don't have to make a reservation for these tours, just show up by the small dock (plenty of parking) and go to the ticket window to purchase your $15 ticket to ride. From there they will call you up to join the next tour. My understanding is they can do private tours for groups, but I may be wrong about that. My suggestion? Don't go during the hot summer months. There is no covering and you will burn. I opted to go on a beautiful day (highs in the low 70s) and it could not have been more amazing. Also- hold on to your hats!

Great boat tour led by our boat driver and tour guide the Great Lee, the Magnificent...he's been a resident of Florida for over 20 yrs and had a wealth of knowledge about the history of the Lakes surrounding winter park located in Central Florida. Glad we came. Make sure to bring a hat for shade, hand towel, and a few bottled waters in a small storage bag to help keep them cool. You will need it due to the sun and heat.

Snap shot going through a canal

You've seen it on foot. You've seen it by car. Now experience Winter Park's undying charm aboard a water vessel led by expert tour guides who have resided here since the dawn of time. This is probably my most recommended activity in central Florida. I still remember my first time being introduced to this boat tour. I walked onto this boat a little tipsy from day drinking and was led on an hour excursion of every nook and cranny of Winter Park. Historical tidbits, weird Winter Park history, celebrity sightings, and dad jokes galore. Plus a new perspective of Winter Park's beauty. Super affordable. Departs every hour. Perfect in every season. Beautiful sunsets. If you're not sold yet there's something wrong with you. Respectfully.

A wonderful afternoon adventure. Found this place on Instagram, and I am so glad we did. Parking is a challenge. However, you can find parking once a boat returns from a tour. Getting there At the end of the road, there are plenty of small shops to explore as you wait for your tour. Once you arrive, if you can't find parking have one person go up and pay for the tour and then go park. Usually, the most recent one is sold out, and you have to wait 30 minutes to an hour for the next tour. Paying They do take cards. Straightforward payment options. I recommend wearing a hat as there is no cover on the boat, and on a sunny day or even overcast, it gets very warm on the boat. Waiting to go. There are seating areas around and a bathroom. I recommend walking around while waiting. You will be seated for an hour, so getting tired from walking before going is nice. Lucky for us, there was a farmers market that day. We were able to get some local food and juice before heading out. The boat is on time departure so don't be late coming back. The tour The boat tour guide is very knowledgeable and friendly. If you enjoy looking at multi-millionaire homes, you will enjoy this tour. Overall, we loved it and recommend you check it out.

Lovely boat tour of lakes and canals in Winter Park. Skipper Mickey was very thorough on our tour, and gave us lots of history tidbits about the beautiful houses on the water. I loved hearing about Mr. Rogers and his history in the area. Fun for nature and history lovers alike.

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• Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

WINTER PARK SCENIC BOAT TOUR

312 East Morse Boulevard Winter Park, Florida 32789 Tel: 407-644-4056

By   Mike Miller    Updated April 8, 2024

The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is a one-hour tour you will enjoy whether it's your first time or hundredth time.

The attraction began its operation in 1938.  It's first trip was led by Captain Tom and dubbed the "Venice of America" tour.

Today it is one of Florida's most interesting off-the-beaten-path experiences.

What makes it unique is the route the tour boats take through Lakes Osceola, Virginia, and Maitland.

Although its location in Winter Park is only ten minutes north of downtown Orlando  in Central Florida, and a quick 5 minute walk from busy Park Avenue, the tour route feels like a completely different world. 

It's one of the best ways to enjoy a taste of both worlds.

You will see tropical trees such as large palm and beautiful cypress trees, lush ferns, tropical flowers and many tropical birds along the route.

You will also see some of the most spectacular mansions in the state along the route.

Some of these mansions have been owned by movie stars or other famous people and the guide will point them out.

The Winter Park chain of lakes includes seven lakes, with the larger five being connected to each other by narrow beautiful canals.

These canals were built by lumber interests in the late 19th century to float logs harvested from the surrounding forests to the sawmill locations.

WINTER PARK SCENIC BOAT TOUR: CELEBRITY HOMES

The scenic boat tour begins at their headquarters in Winter Park at the end of Morse Boulevard on Lake Osceola.  

The tour will have you relaxing in one of six 18-passenger pontoon boats.  Your tour guide will begin by showing you some famous structures in Winter Park history along the lake shore.

You will leave the boat house on Lake Osceola and head south into Lake Virginia through a beautiful narrow canal canopied by ancient oaks, banana, cypress, and palm trees, ferns and just about anything else that grows in this part of Florida.  

The northern shore of Lake Virginia is home to the picturesque campus of Rollins College.

After touring Lake Virginia, the boat heads back north through the same canal and into Lake Osceola for a leisurely cruise along the shoreline and a glimpse into the many historic mansions and exquisite estates.  

Another beautiful winding canal takes you north into Lake Maitland where you will see Kraft Azalea Gardens and the breathtaking views of opulent private homes.

Many of the grand homes are on the Isle of Sicily , a man made peninsula that juts into the center of the lake.

The tour guides are locals who know the area well and make the one hour cruise interesting.  

Along with the beautiful scenery, many times nature cooperates in the tour by showing you large cranes hunting for fish or a lazy alligator swimming along the shoreline.

WINTER PARK SCENIC BOAT TOURS FEES & HOURS

Tours leave every hour from 10 AM to 400 PM; current admission fees (2024) tax included are $20 for adults, $10 for children (ages 2 through 11) and kids under 2 ride free. 

The tour is open for business every day of the year except Christmas.

LOCATION OF WINTER PARK SCENIC BOAT TOURS

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Scenic Boat Tour - All You MUST Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Everything You Need to Know About the Winter Park Boat Tour

by Erika Jeffrey | July 29, 2022

If you’re looking for a way to shake up your typical outing in Orlando, you don’t have to travel far or spend a lot of money. People love strolling through the charming town of Winter Park on any given day, but there’s a way to see it from another angle — by boat!

The Scenic Winter Park Boat Tour has always been a family-owned operation since its humble beginnings in 1938. They’ve come a long way from the wooden boats they started out with. Now they have a fleet of six 18-passenger pontoons that allow tourists and locals alike a different vantage point of popular Winter Park.

We ventured down to the docks to experience the ride and got all the tips from the friendly staff. Here’s what to expect:

• Where to find the Winter Park Boat Tour.
• How to book a ride and how much does the tour cost
• How long does it last and where do you cruise
• What kind of nature you can expect to see
• What to wear and what to bring
• When is the best time to visit

This relaxing boat one-hour ride is such a fun way to catch a glimpse of three of the seven Winter Park chain of lakes. The narrated cruise makes for a fun date, friend’s outing, or simply a fun excuse to get out on the water to get to know the town a little better.

Where exactly is the Winter Park Boat Tour?

The dock where you pay and check in is conveniently located just steps from the bustling Park Avenue of Downtown Winter Park. East Morse Road leads right up to Lake Osceola where the boats await. 

There is 3-hour street parking available — however, if you show up later in the day, parking tends to fill up so you may have to find a spot anywhere in the Park Avenue area and walk over.

How much does the Winter Park Boat Tour cost?

There are fun boutique shops and eateries close to the docks where you can grab a bite before or after your tour. If you’re shopping in the upscale district before your ride, be sure to save $16 for your boat fare. Children 2-11 years old are $8 , and kids under 2 are free. 

That said, there is no shade and you have to be seated throughout the entire one-hour ride. Also, kids under 5 must wear a life jacket the entire time so use your best judgment on whether your kid can handle those conditions.

They used to be cash-only, but now accept major credit cards and even Apple Pay.

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How do I book a ride on the Winter Park Boat Tour?

Tours leave the dock every hour on top of the hour starting at 10 am. The last ride is at 4 pm. They do not take reservations unless you have a group of 12 or more, in which case you’d call ahead to make arrangements at 407-644-4056. 

It is a first come, first serve basis. So, if you know you want to make a certain time slot, be sure to arrive nice and early to put your name down.

Tours are NOT rain or shine.

If there is lightning within 10 miles, the trip is canceled and you will be bumped to the next available boat, or will have to return another day. If you’re from Florida you understand that lightning is NO JOKE and they do this out of the safety of riders and their staff.

How long is the Winter Park boat tour and where does it go?

The hour-long boat ride is narrated by locals that really make the tour. They know who has lived where, the history of the area, and have some funny jokes up their sleeves. 

They cruise three of the seven Winter Park chain of lakes and squeeze through a couple IG worthy canals. It’s always a nail-biter when a kayaker or SUP boarder shares the canals, but the friendly guides always make sure to make room for their water-loving allies. 

What can you expect to see on the ride?

Florida is known for its swaying palms and sandy beaches, but there’s more to marvel at while cruising the shorelines of Winter Park. While you’ll see your fair share of palms and lakeshore beaches, you also get a hefty dose of towering cypress trees, grand oaks, lush ferns, and a variety of pretty sub-tropical flowers. 

It’s fun to imagine what it must be like to own one of the many opulent mansions and estates dotting the shores. Lusting over their expansive gardens and impressive architecture is a fan favorite on this tour.

Critter-wise you can expect to see anhingas, great blue herons, egrets, osprey, red-shouldered hawks, barred owls, ibis, other water-loving birds, and the occasional gator. Alligators are not big fans of the amount of action on the lake, so the chance of seeing one is slim.

What should you wear and bring with you?

There are quite a few bridges and low limbs to duck under throughout the tour, so the boats never put up a canopy. That means lots of sun. You should remember to:

• Wear a long sleeve shirt or sunscreen
• Put on sunscreen on your face and neck
• Wear sunglasses
• Wear breathable clothes and comfy shoes – sandals are fine
• Dress warm in the cooler months

You are welcome to bring a cooler along as long as it’s small. Please note that they do not allow alcohol on board. Water, other drinks, and hats are sold at the ticket window.

When is the best time to take the Winter Park Boat Tour?

As you might have guessed, winter is the busiest time of year for the Scenic Winter Park Boat Tour. Especially the time right before Christmas. 

The cooler months are popular among the snowbirds and people wanting to enjoy the lower temps, so be sure to show up early to claim your spots.

The least busy day of the week is typically Monday — unless it’s a holiday.

The busiest slots tend to be any time after lunch, so the early bird gets the worm!

Additional Details You Should Know Before You Go

The fine folks at the Scenic Winter Park Boat Tour are always looking out for their guests and put safety first. Their mantra “watch your step” followed by “no standing” echoes throughout the day. All boats have life jackets and guides are well versed in how to operate their pontoons.

If you’re on the hunt for a different way to spend some time with your friends or family, this is the ticket. It’s an affordable way to explore the natural side of Winter Park and get to know her from a fresh perspective. And just remember, watch your head as you pass under those fern-dressed branches!

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Home » Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour Is A Hidden Gem

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour Is A Hidden Gem

Adventurous first time visitors seeking flora and fauna or savvy Orlando travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path vacation experience won’t be disappointed when they discover the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour.

Located on Lake Osceola in the quiet suburb less than 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, the boat tour offers hour-long, guided cruises through three of the seven lakes and two, narrow manmade canals on the tranquil Winter Park chain.

On any given tour, participants may observe large cranes swooping waterside to snag a large fish or a lazy alligator languishing on a nearby bank. An occasional water skier or racing shell full of crew members from the areas private liberal arts college, Rollins, are also enjoyable sideshows for tour goers.

Every tour, however, guarantees plenty of swaying palms, towering cypress trees, lush ferns and a variety of flourishing sub-tropical flowers. Breathtaking views of opulent private homes and exquisite estates sprawling along the shores are also a key feature of the scenic cruise.

The dock, less than 5 minutes from Park Avenue, Central Florida´s popular, upscale shopping district, is conveniently located on the East end of Morse Boulevard on Lake Osceola.

The Scenic Boat Tour offers a fleet of  18 passenger pontoon boats. Admission with tax is $20.00 for adults and $10.00 for children ages 2 through 11 –  under 2 are free.

Cash or Check Only! Operating hours are 10am to 4pm daily except Christmas.

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Winter Park’s Scenic Boat Tour full of surprises as oldest Orlando attraction

It was a beautiful day in the neighborhood, one of the Orlando area’s finest.

Never expected to cross paths with the past of the celebrity who made the first part of that phrase famous, though, when we set out on the Scenic Boat Tour on the Winter Park chain of lakes.

It was just one of the surprises on a Mister Rogers sort of outing which falls into the category of fun for the whole family. Among the numerous extravagant and historic lakefront homes highlighted by the tour guide is one that Fred Rogers called home while a student at Rollins College before he became famous for his iconic children’s television program “Mister Rogers Neighborhood.”

Of the many attractions in Central Florida, the boat tour may be the most authentic. Whether or not it is the oldest in operation (according to our guide), it has maintained popularity across several generations since 1938.

It’s just a five-minute stroll downhill from the bistros and boutiques of Park Avenue to the 18-passenger pontoon boats that leave every hour (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) from the docks at the east end of Morse Boulevard on Lake Osceola.

Tour details : Price is $14 for adults, $7 for ages 2-11. They accept cash or checks only, no credit cards. They take reservations only for groups of 10 or more. Also, be aware that there is no covering on the boats, so hats and sun screen are recommended.

One of the best ways to experience Fort Lauderdale is by taking the water taxi.

They do run multiple boats as dictated by demand. Four were filled for the 3 o’clock tour on a Saturday in April 2018, and a similar gathering of passengers was packed around the boat house for the day’s last tour when we returned.

The 12-mile tour loops through the three largest of the five lakes in the Winter Park chain (Osceola, Lake Virginia and Lake Maitland), which are joined by narrow canals that wind past residents’ backyards and boathouses under canopies of giant trees – among them majestic oaks and cypress standing 500 years and longer.

The boat ride and scenery were pleasant enough, and the vastness of the chain was a surprise. It was the history lesson about Winter Park and entertaining commentary by our guide that made the outing memorable.

That seems to be the consensus of those who have reviewed the tour on social media travel sites. The guides who run the boats are retirees from varied backgrounds who seem to delight in telling tales of an area with a colorful past.

History abounds on Winter Park lakes

Many reviewers mention the Fred Rogers story, standing out as a recognizable personality from the industrialists and Rollins College presidents who have made their homes on the lake shores. It’s also unexpected.

Really, Mister Rogers lived here?!

As our guide told it, Rogers was from a wealthy family and his parents purchased a red-brick lakeside mansion for him while he studied music composition at Rollins College, where he graduated magna cum laude in 1951. The guide mused about the potential for wild college parties that were likely never held at Mister Rogers’ house.

It’s a curiosity, but there are better stories on the lake tour. Such as the historic Capen House, circa 1885, that was moved by barge from one side of Lake Osceola to the other to become part of the Albin Polasek Museum. They cut it in half and transported it in two parts, each weighing 100 tons.

There was an anecdote about a Venician-style house that was originally built abutting the lake as if on a Venice canal. That changed after the owner came home and saw his kids leaping out of second-story windows into the lake. He had a buffer of land filled in between the house and the water so that now it sits back slightly, out of jumping distance from the lake.

While the tour is a tourist attraction, the lakes are a playground for residents. Jet Skis are commonplace flitting about the waterways, and waterskiing is a popular activity here.

It turns out the Winter Park chain of lakes was the cradle of waterskiing in Florida beginning in the 1920s when skiing pioneer Dick Pope Sr. put on exhibitions to promote real estate sales. Pope went on to turn Cypress Gardens into the “Water Ski Capital of the World.” (Alas, the once-prominent Central Florida attraction, where Esther Williams once filmed a movie, is now Legoland).

Pope’s son, Dick Pope Jr., was a Rollins College student who became a four-time world champion, winning one of them on his home lake in Winter Park. Rollins College remains a national power in collegiate waterskiing, training on Lake Virginia as Pope did.

Mansions have stories to tell

The hour went quickly as the guide sprinkled fun-filled facts and humorous observations to enliven the scenery. He pointed out the solitary cypress tree that is an island to itself in Lake Maitland and is decorated with Christmas ornaments that the tour captains hang on it.

The guide pointed out the 17,000-square-foot manse that former NBA player Horace Grant had built on the Lake Maitland shore in 2000 when he played for the Orlando Magic. The house was constructed to fit a 6-foot-10 basketball player’s lifestyle and specifications. So after Grant moved on and sold it, the new owner had to have various fixtures lowered and also converted the basketball court into a ballroom.

There was a larger property, which at 30,000 square feet appears more like a resort than a residence. While the tour captains have their own ways of highlighting lake attractions, our guide noted that it was a passenger who put this one in perspective.

The passenger’s young son wanted to know what 30,000 square feet meant. The captain paused his commentary to wait for the reply.

It means, the father said, “that we could fit our house 15 times into that one.”

• Capen House
• Fred Rogers
• Lake Osceola
• Orlando attractions
• Rollins College
• Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

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Scenic Boat Tour

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SCENIC BOAT TOUR (Winter Park) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Scenic Boat Tour

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Scenic Boat Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

Introduction.

Text-to-speech Audio

The longest continuously running tourist attraction in Central Florida, the Scenic Boat Tour was established in 1938.

After canals were dug between the town’s lakes, cruising the chain of lakes has been part of Winter Park life. In 1938 The Scenic Boat Tour began motoring visitors and residents through the tropical canals and around Lakes Osceola, Virginia, and Maitland. Still in operation, the tour takes visitors past Rollins College, Kraft Azalea Gardens, the beautiful homes on the Isle of Sicily and throughout the other residential areas.

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Scenic Boat Tour

Attractions & Tours Park Avenue Merchants

• 312 East Morse Boulevard Winter Park FL 32789
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Kristy hightower, kristy hightower owner scenic boat tour.

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Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024)

Orlando boat tours are a fantastic activity in Central Florida, no matter the type of boating adventure you choose.

Some of the suggestions below are full-day tours, and others take mere hours. But all are a great way to spend your time in order to enjoy the Sunshine State’s beautiful scenery. And that could mean a wild ride in the Everglades or sailing sunset cruises on one of the Orlando area's attractive lakes.

We are sharing the best Orlando boat tours – private and group options – including scenic pontoon boat tours, airboat rides, kayaking, canoeing, sunset sails, and even boat rentals at Walt Disney World.

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase at no cost to you. We recommend experiences, hotels, products, and services we use and support. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Book a sunset sailing tour in Orlando . It's our favorite type of boat tour, and Florida sunsets often show off for an audience!
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• See what to bring for Orlando boat tours so you are prepared to deal with the Florida bugs!

Orlando Airboat Rides 

One of the things Florida is most known for is its famous airboat tours. Sign up for this fun adventure whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, within Everglades National Park, or Orlando on Shingle Creek, on the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. 

You won’t soon forget an exciting airboat ride when you visit the Orlando area, with a chance to see Bald Eagles and other endemic tropical birds, alligators, and crocodiles (maybe even a baby alligator). 

Airboat rides are particularly popular amongst nature lovers. These special boats allow you to glide on the unique marshes and swampland of the Central Florida area. We thoroughly enjoyed our Florida airboat experience. 

Sign up for a 90-minute fun and educational Orlando airboat tour to encounter the real Florida with experienced captains. Alternatively, secure your spot for a 1-hour sunset airboat tour and hope for one of Florida’s famous colorful sunsets. 

Most airboat tours take place rain or shine. Just in case, we recommend traveling to Florida with a poncho or thin raincoat of some sort. Be sure to check in for your tour at least 30 minutes before the experience. 

Orlando Boat Tour on an Airboat with Transportation

This tour includes pick up and drop off in Central Florida (including designated Disney World and Universal hotels), a BBQ lunch, a printed photo, and admission to their animal rescue Wildlife Park, where you can see birds, big cats, and reptiles. 

The entire experience – from transportation to the boat ride – lasts around 7 hours, including the drive to and from the Everglades area. The Florida Everglades are approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive each way from Orlando. Choose from a 30-minute or 60-minute airboat ride when you book your experience . 

Orlando Sailing Tours 

How about enjoying Orlando’s lakes with wind power? Sailing tours are the perfect way to glide on the water. And a sunset sail is incredibly romantic, to boot! 

Private Morning Sail 

Set sail on a 2-hour private sailing tour, starting at 10:00 am. Adventure awaits on Lake Fairview for up to four guests. 

This area is just north of College Park near downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando’s Lieu Gardens. Don’t forget to bring towels if you want, though water is provided (and lakes are calm anyway, so you shouldn’t really get wet!).

Advanced reservations are required.

Private Lake Sunset Sail 

Sail on Lake Fairview, approximately 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, 30-35 minutes from the Disney theme parks (including the Disney Springs area), and 25 minutes from Universal. 

This 2-hour private Orlando boat tour can fit up to four people, and they allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages onboard. We recommend bringing a bottle of wine or champagne! 

We recommend bringing along a wine tumbler set for your sailboat adventure! 

Kayaking Tours

Connect with nature from the comfort of a kayak and get in some exercise too. Orlando boat tour options for kayaking are plentiful. 

Kayak with Manatees

Head 45 minutes north of Orlando for your chance to kayak with manatees! These cute and friendly mammals are famous in the Sunshine State, where they come to enjoy the warm water for the winter. 

Whether you’re a novice kayaking trying it for the first time, or an experienced pro, this tour is for you if you want to see a plethora of wildlife. 

Check out this popular tour with 5-star reviews

Glass Bottom Boat Kayak Tours

If you want to see the fish below the water’s surface without snorkeling, sign up for a glass-bottom kayak tour. See through the bottom of the boat on this Orlando boat tour and have the chance to view the colorful fish and marine plant life beneath you. 

Try a Rock Springs guided kayak eco-tour as you glide on the crystal-clear water for two hours. You’ll learn about the local ecosystem, stop for photos, and have the opportunity to swim in the springs. Opt to jump into the water from a rope swing for a thrill during this adventure. 

You can also opt for a sunset tour in a glass-bottom kayak . Paddle through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes and canals in a peaceful setting. Your knowledgeable guide will point out interesting nature homes along the way and share some history of the area. You’ll also be able to stop for photos where you like! 

This tour is likely to sell out: Reserve Now

Winter Park Evening Clear Kayak Glow in the Dark Tour

If you want to add a fun element to your kayaking adventure, sign up for a Winter Park kayak tour at night with a glow-in-the-dark kayak. The boats are illuminated with nighttime lighting!

They will surely be a good photo opp and fun outing as the lights make the water beneath you glow. 

Another great option is this Neon Night Glow Paddleboard or Clear Kayak experience on Lake Ivanhoe.

This unique boat tour allows you to see Orlando’s skyline at night as you paddle along with the help of your guides, the moonlight, and the colorful lights beneath your kayak or paddleboard.  

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of our favorite Orlando boat tours is in Winter Park. It was established in the 1930s, decades before Walt Disney World opened in Lake Buena Vista.

This pontoon boat tour starts near the well-known Park Avenue area. Set out on your scenic cruise from Lake Osceola to the Winter Park Chain of Lakes as your guide takes you through the manmade canals.

Sail past stunning homes in Winter Park, where you will have breathtaking views of the opulent private homes in the area (which is one of the reasons we enjoy the boat tour).

You will have a chance to see wonderful some of Florida’s beautiful birds, like Blue Herons and large cranes, as you travel on several lakes. 

Each boat holds a maximum of 18 passengers. Be sure to bring cash or a check to buy your tickets because credit cards are not accepted. We advise purchasing tickets in the morning on weekends, even if you plan on going later in the day. It’s a very popular tour, and tickets often sell out quickly. 

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is closed on Christmas Day. Otherwise, tours leave daily on the hour, starting at 10:00 am. The last tour is at 4:00 pm. 

Day Trip Boat Tours from Orlando

While the Orlando boat tours listed above are within 30 minutes, on average, from Orlando, it’s worth mentioning there are more boat tour options nearby within a 2-hour drive. Here are some additional Central Florida boat tour options. 

Mount Dora Lake Tours

One of our favorite destinations from Central Florida is 45 minutes north: the quaint town of Mount Dora . There’s so much to see and do there in the afternoon or morning; a boat tour is the best way to extend your trip to a whole day. 

Take a 2-hour pontoon boat tour with a departure point at the historic hotel, the Lakeside Inn. Enjoy your leisurely cruise around Lake Dora and The Harris Chain of Lakes, including the famed Dora Canal.

The all-weather 25’ boats can cruise rain or shine thanks to their retractable clear covers for the sides of the boat. Choose from one of two daytime tours, or their third option to cruise during sunset. 

Clearwater Beach with Dolphin Encounter Cruise

This 12-hour full-day tour begins with pick-up at 7:30 am. You’ll head west of Orlando to the popular Florida destination (Clearwater Beach), where you will take a cruise to encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. 

While this means that you aren’t guaranteed to spot dolphins, your tour guide will do his or her very best to find them. You may see these beautiful mammals up close by the boat or further in the distance if they appear in the ocean. Part of the fun is the anticipation. 

A one-hour dolphin tour boat ride is sandwiched between hours of free time on a Gulf Coast beach. For only $10 more, you can purchase a wristband for the boat ride that allows you to have unlimited beer, wine, and vodka punch. 

Pickup and drop off are included at one of three major locations of your choice (Disney areas included). This means that all you have to do is sign up for the tour and be at that location for pick-up time. 

Choose from the three pick-up locations listed below:

• Walt Disney World area, on Epcot Resorts Blvd. (northern area of the parks) 
• Walt Disney World area, at Maingate Lakeside Resort in Kissimmee (area of the Disney World theme parks that is further south) 
• International Drive (close to Universal) at Senor Frogs

Clear Canoe Boat Tour Near Orlando at Silver Springs

This clear canoe boat tour is approximately halfway between Orlando and Gainesville at Silver Springs. The drive is approximately an hour and 45 minutes from downtown Orlando. 

You’ll do a self-guided tour after the kayak company representative meets you and gives you a laminated map and some brief instructions. Paddle near Cypress Trees and see turtles, ducks, birds, and a chance to see manatees during the winter season, when they swim to Florida’s warm waters.

Dan and I often like to explore an area freely, on our own. Maybe you’re the same way! If so, this is a great tour for you in the Orlando area, as long as you can rent a car to get to the meeting point or take a taxi/Uber or Lyft there. 

Orlando Boat Tours at Walt Disney World

Did you know that you can rent motorized boats at Disney World? It’s one of the best things to do at Walt Disney World, besides the parks. 

Rent a Sun Tracker® Pontoon boat by the half-hour for up to 10 people. You can also opt to kayak or canoe from Fort Wilderness by the hour. 

One of the most singular boat tours in Orlando, or perhaps anywhere, is an Amphicar boat tour. Be a passenger and the envy of all onlookers in a cool convertible car that drives right into the water. This experience is available at Disney Springs restaurant, The Boathouse.

Lastly, you can book a specialty cruise to see the fireworks. You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to do so! Snacks and soft drinks are included in a memorable cruise on a 25’ boat. 

You can also request ​​for a festive banner and/or balloons to be set up on the boat, which is included in the cost (request at the time of booking). It’s a great thing to do for you and your partner or up to 10 guests total, whether a proposal, anniversary treat, or family reunion. 

What to Bring for Orlando Boat Tours

Florida's heat can be brutal, depending on the time of year. No matter the month, you definitely need to protect your skin from the sun. The sun in FL is strong, year-round. 

Be sure to pack the following if you’ll be on the water in sunny Florida: 

• Refillable water bottle (the ice will stay intact for hours in the MiiR bottle, our favorite insulated wide-mouth bottle) 
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• SPF lip balm
• Eco-friendly bathing suit 
• Rash guard 

Conclusion for Best Orlando Boat Tours

Whether you want to captain a boat yourself, row your way through Florida’s waters in a kayak, see gators on an educational airboat ride, or go on a romantic sailboat cruise around one of Central Florida’s lakes, an Orlando boat is a wonderful Florida activity. 

It will connect you with nature, get you out in fresh air, and allow your body to absorb vitamin D in the Florida sunshine. Sign up for an Orlando boat tour and explore this southern state in a unique and adventurous way. 

Read this next:

• 40 Awesome Things Florida is Known For
• 30 Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks
• Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Helpful Info for a Successful Visit

The post Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024) appeared first on Sometimes Home: Couples Travel .

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Nick Schroeder’s perfect day includes a show in South Paris and vintage shopping in Biddeford

The communications manager for Space and member of Mad Horse Theatre Company would also make Rockland and several Portland shops part of the itinerary.

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Nick Schroeder, 42, of Portland, is communications manager and multidisciplinary programmer for Space, a nonprofit arts venue in Portland. He’s also an actor, director and ensemble member with Mad Horse Theatre Company in South Portland. A native of Old Orchard Beach, he’s worked as a journalist and editor at several local publications.

As much as I like bopping around the state by myself, I’ll spend my perfect Maine day with my partner, Mallory, and our nearly 3-year-old toddler. The kid’s in the stage of life where she asks why to just about everything, and that question makes for good conversation.

Getting dressed (finding pants, socks, etc. and negotiating their deployment) can take a while in my house, so we’ll put on WMPG to keep the energy loose. I’ll pour a good cup of coffee, Speckled Ax Early Riser preferred , in my clunky travel mug. Then we’ll get things cracking at that one real good climbing tree in the park for a little proprioceptive rinse. The branches are real low to the ground and I don’t have to worry about my kid taking any nasty falls.

The Palace Diner in Biddeford. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Will Zu Bakery still have croissants by now, or is that too much morning meandering? The neighbors tend to swarm the little West End spot – how is it this good? – and it can quickly sell out. If that’s the case, we’ll drive south. Actually, scratch that – Mallory will drive this leg, and I’ll bike. Our destinations will be the same, Palace Diner (in Biddeford). I’ll have the omelet du jour and those great big potatoes, and maybe a bite of my kid’s pancake – the dad handbook clearly states that you must eat your children’s leftovers. We’ll all poke our heads inside Biddeford Vintage Market and see what new vendors they’ve got (my aunt Barb runs the place with some friends) before making a quick spin into Color.Sound.Oblivion to check their newly stocked records.

The Basico – an arepa stuffed with chicken, cheese and pico de gallo – with a side of pan de bono and a cup of verduritas (spicy green sauce) from Maiz in Portland. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

With family who live nearby, I’ll be able to ditch the bike and hop into the car, heading north. We’ll stop in Portland to grab a couple of arepas for the road from the outrageously good Colombian food restaurant Maïz, and head to South Paris. In this fantasy, the Celebration Barn has a perfectly timed matinee show, and true to form, it’s equally enchanting for kids and adults.

The Celebration Barn in South Paris. Andree Kehn/Sun Journal

After that, we’ll drive to Rockland (here’s where the kid naps) and head to a beach (any beach) before I pop into Curator , one of few consignment shops that bothers to stock nice stuff for tall fellas. Then it’s over to Rock City Cafe for a refill and a poke around Hello Hello Books behind the cafe. Last time, I found a nice used paperback of a Judy Chicago biography. Will I get this lucky again?

A stack of books at Print: A Bookstore in Portland. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

Returning to Portland, we’ll have had our fill of driving and Raffi sing-alongs. It’s time for our A-list East End retail trifecta – Ferdinand  for handmade wonders, Starry Eyes  for snazzy kids’ stuff, and Print: A Bookstore (more books!).

For dinner, the ideal is Asmara , the great Eritrean gem, where we as a family can share big communal plates of colorful food using only our hands as utensils. After we put the kid to bed, I’ll text a friend, and if his kid’s asleep, too, we can sneak out for a little nightcap at the Continental and discuss the news.

How would you spend your perfect Maine day? Send your itinerary, in 500 words or less, with a little about yourself, to [email protected] .

A Belhaven beer, a Negroni and a pint of Guinness at The Continental in Portland. Brianna Soukup/Staff Photographer

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