Grasshopper Airboat Tours

Become an alligator hunter for a day at he Grasshopper Airboat Eco-Tours. Float through the heart of alligator habitats, watching the massive reptiles from a comfortable seat two feet above the waterline. Relax and soak up the scenery of the marsh as "Captain Rick" weaves tales of alligator adventures and points out other forms of native Florida wildlife.

The chill that runs up your spin as you take that first big step onto the airboat never fully leaves your body during the excursion. Visions of snapping 'gators dance in your head as you survey the size of the boat. While the airboats are just a few feet longer than some of the Sunshine State's largest reptiles, you are completely safe. Binoculars and an ear protection headset are provided for each passenger. You will want to hold tightly onto your camera strap as the boat tilts and speeds through the water.

Wildlife Spotting

You will rarely need the use of your zoom lens to capture an alligators sharp teeth. In addition to 'gator sightings, you can also expect to see Bald Eagles, Great Egrets, Osprey and river cows. The serenity of the Cypress trees and hanging Spanish Moss lulls you into a relaxed state during the airboat cruise. The sharp slapping sounds of an alligator's tail jolts you back to a hyper-alert state, as you crane your head for a better look. Utilize all of your senses to fully enjoy a trip along the St. John's River and adjacent waterways. Listen for the sound of rustling reeds and the squawking of Red Shouldered Hawks, and you are sure to get a long look at least a 'gator or tow.

Although land-based attractions featuring alligators offer the chance see organized shows and perhaps even handle a small 'gator, the experience of viewing the reptiles in the wild is a treat you don't want to miss. You have to be quick and ready to look in multiple directions at once when "Captain Rick" catches a glimpse of an alligator and prompts you to look in a specific area of the marsh or Cypress Swamp. The guided tours successfully blend the best aspects of an outdoor classroom with adventure s you make a brief stop by an alligator nest or huddle close to a group of river cows crossing the waterway.

Fast Paced Adventure

While exciting, the tours can sometimes turn gruesome at a moments notice. The unscripted lives of wild animals unfold before your eyes, just like an old episode of "Wild Kingdom." You could be getting ready to snap a photo of a cute river calf swimming next to it's mother one minute, only to have your camera viewer fill with images of thrashing and blood the next. When an alligator is hungry, it will feed, whether a group of tourists is passing by or not. Bare this fact in mind when traveling with young children.

Tour Amenities

Grasshopper Airboat Tours provide complimentary sodas during the waterway journey. Hold onto your sun shading hat during the ride, as the boat reaches speeds in excess of forty miles per hour. Plan on spending at least hour on the tour when working an excursion into your vacation agenda.