2 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of the Chain of Lakes
Description
Take an award winning tour of the Chain of Lakes in Winter Haven! Awarded the Certificate of Excellency & Travelers Choice awards every year since 2018. Experience true southern hospitality as you explore real Florida aboard a brand new Pontoon boat with a local guide with over 40 years experience. Your guide will take you on adventure like no other through the incredible beauty and rich history of 5 to 7 historical lakes of the famous Chain of Lakes. You will be able to capture amazing photos of the wildlife and lush tropical landscaping that line the shores of this rich resource. Possible sitings include alligators, otters, blue heron, turtles, osprey, anhingas and more! You will also learn about the history of Cypress Gardens and take a nostalgic look at the famous Florida pool as you glide by and peek into a moment in history where the southern bells once stood on the famous Cypress Gardens bridge. This tour is perfect for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike!
Tour Options
Itinerary
We will cruise by the famous Chain of Lakes Park where the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians once held their spring training.
Take a tour past the historic Cypress Gardens and famous Florida shaped pool from the movie "Easy to Love" with Esther Williams. You will get the history and catch a glimpse of what remains from the water side.
You will explore Winter Haven Florida's famous Chain of Lakes. Home to over 50 lakes with over 24 connected and known as the Water Ski capital of the world! You will even visit the lakes where Elvis Presley, Johnny Carson and many more have skied!
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We can accomodate one non-transferrable wheelchair guest per tour. Pick up location would change to the boat launch next door to restaurant for wheelchair access. YOU MUST CALL TO BOOK A WHEELCHAIR GUEST BECAUSE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS MUST BE MADE WHICH INCLUDES ENSURING AVAILABILTY OF A SPECIFIC BOAT AND AN ALTERNATE PICK UP LOCATION. WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILTY CANNOT BE BOOKED DIRECT WITHOUT CONTACTING US TO ENSURE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS ARE AVAILABLE.
- Traveller tip: In the summer months from late May to September it is recommended to book in the morning when the wildlife is most active and the temperature is more comfortable. Summer is rainy season for Florida and rains are more likely in the afternoon.
- ALL GUESTS MUST ARRIVE 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE TIME. .Restrooms do not open until 11:30am; please plan accordingly. Lunch or dinner reservations are available upon request.
Reviews(424)
Bryce was an excellent navigator and guide. He worked hard to keep us out of the hot sun by constantly raising and lowering the canopy which was necessitated by the low bridges we went under. Being from Florida, we were familiar with the different species of birds. We did enjoy seeing the homes built around each lake.
Great experience for us. If you are looking for a relaxing time on the water, learn some local history and see some wildlife then this is the tour for you. Our captain - Sage - was so friendly and knew her stuff. Appreciated the map and the water. Looking forward to planning another tour of the northern lakes
We had a wonderful 2 hour sunset cruise around several lakes in Winter Haven. It was a perfect evening, especially weather-wise, and the cruise did not disappoint. Sage was our driver and she was friendly, engaging, and entertaining as she told us about the lakes, any wildlife we saw, and history in the area. She answered our questions and gladly took pictures. I would recommend this tour with Sage as the driver!! Dinner at Harborside prior to our cruise was delicious as always.
A really good trip with Rue Denton which was good at telling about the area and finding birds. Can warmly recommend
We actually took the 2 hour sunset cruise. It was an excellent cruise through at least five of the lakes. Sage was an amazing captain and tour guide. It was an informative, scenic, and tranquil evening. A perfect way to escape the craziness of Orlando. We also enjoyed a lovely dinner at the Harborside restaurant before the cruise.
We did the 3 hour lunch cruise it was over 100 degrees with moving on the water it wasn’t that bad.Sage our guide was a book of knowledge and very nice. We’re definitely going back for the sunset cruise.
Great time had by all. Brice was knowledgeable and friendly with great insights. Comfortable seating.
Our second adventure together was an absolutely delightful experience from start to finish. We truly cherished every single moment and made wonderful memories that we will hold dear for years to come. Our guide, Captain Rue, was nothing short of exceptional; his expertise and extensive knowledge about the area were evident throughout our journey. He shared fascinating insights and stories that not only enriched our understanding but also enhanced the overall enjoyment of the trip. Given how thoroughly we enjoyed this excursion, we are already looking forward to returning for our third adventure soon, eager to explore more and create even more unforgettable experiences.
We picked a perfect time for the event-8:00 am. It wasn't too hot and we experiened a relaxing boat ride. Our tour guide was exceptional and very knowledgeable about where to find the wildlife and the names of the various animals we saw during our 2-hour event. He gave us a little history on the homes in the area too. We really enjoyed our guide and the tour and are planning to bring the rest of the family when we return to Orlando.
We had an amazing tour guide - Saige. I will definitely request Saige on the next tour as well. It was a very beautiful and peaceful boat tour. The beautiful different types of birds that I had never seen before. Just an amazing experience.
