You can find everything you need to rest and recharge your batteries in Florida. The Sunshine State has sunny skies and white sand. It has azure waters and a host of restaurants offering the most delicious food. You’ll also enjoy exploring its subtropical wilderness.
Most visitors to Florida’s head to its many theme parks to enjoy the rides. But if you prefer nature and real animals, you can go on airboat rides in Florida. Companies like Swamp Fever Airboat Adventures can give you a tour of the state’s beautiful lakes.
Airboats are the best way to explore shallow waters and observe the wildlife. You might even see an American alligator or two. This flat-bottomed boat has been around since World War I. It’s a popular sight in Florida and Louisiana. But it’s also used in places like Nebraska and Siberia. These boats are not only efficient on calm, shallow waters, but they’re also great on ice. Are you planning on trying airboat rides near Orlando? This post will tell you what you need to know about them.
Top Things to Know About Airboats
- It’s good any time of the year. There’s no such thing as peak season when it comes to airboat tours. You can have a good time with them in summer or during the winter months. Of course, Florida’s winters are not as harsh as Alaska or Minnesota. The lower temperatures only make it more pleasant to go outside.
- Airboats are fast but very safe. Airboat rides in Orlando are also designed to hit high speeds in the water. This gives the captain time to get you into the very heart of the lakes or marshes. The high speeds don’t make the ride less safe though. Every captain places safety first. Passengers are also reminded to follow that adage as well. You’ll also get a warning and enough time to secure yourself before the captain blasts off.
- Airboats are loud. These boats use engines designed for speed. The engines are also attached to a large fan connected to a propeller. This design allows the boat to move across various terrains without any problems. But it also makes it loud. You don’t have to worry about your eardrums though. Airboat tour operators provide ear protection for every passenger. The captain will also slow down the boat at certain times so you can hear the tour.
How to Keep Safe during Your Airboat Adventure
Florida has a bustling ecotourism industry. The state is a popular destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and the like. Florida does have beautiful animals and amazing plant species. The best way to have a unique and natural experience is to experience the swamps or lakes. While an airboat ride is safe, you should still take the necessary precautions. Here’s what you should do:
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Wear the Right Clothes
One of the best ways to keep yourself safe during an airboat ride is to wear appropriate clothing. This will depend on the weather. Shorts, a t-shirt, sneakers, or flip-flops are ideal during the summer months. You should also bring a poncho with you as rain is common during summer. You need different attire in winter. Jeans and a long-sleeved shirt is best. Make sure you have a windbreaker with you. The boat’s fast speed can make the ride more chilling than thrilling.
Mosquitoes and bugs are common in the swamps. Light-colored clothing will make you less attractive to them. You should also avoid wearing perfume or cologne. It could attract bugs and repel wildlife.
You should also keep your hair under control. Tie it back into a ponytail if it’s long enough. If it’s not, a bandana or hat can help tame your hair. You don’t want to spend the whole time trying to keep your hair from flying in your face.
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Wear Sunscreen
Florida isn’t called the Sunshine State for nothing. It enjoys more sunny days than other places. While sunny weather means warmth and positive thoughts, the UV rays can harm your skin. It’s a good idea to put on sunscreen before getting on an airboat. You should also have a wide-brimmed hat for shade. Sunglasses can also make it easier to see things.
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Cover Your Ears
As mentioned earlier airboat rides can be quite noisy. Children and some adults find loud noises disturbing and annoying. Take steps to protect your ears. Good airboat companies will provide you with something to protect your ears. You can also use your own ear protection or earplugs.
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Stay Hydrated
Florida’s sunny days mean hotter than usual weather. This could become a problem especially if you’re not used to the heat and humidity. Make sure you always have a large bottle of water with you and you keep yourself hydrated. You don’t want to experience heat exhaustion. You should also be mindful of the dangers of heatstroke.
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Bring a Medical Kit
It’s always a good idea to always have an emergency kit on hand when you travel. Make sure you have a kit with all the medications you take. Put in any items you might need to deal with bites or injuries. Antiseptic cleaners, bandages, and the like can save lives. A good airboat tour operator will also have the essential medical provisions onboard. But it’s always good to be ready for any situation.
Have the Time of Your Life
Florida has everything you need for a great vacation. A trip with Swamp Fever Airboat Adventures makes your trip even more memorable. We are one of Florida’s best airboat tour companies. We can show you the best of Florida’s natural environment. Our tours last a full one hour. You can choose to go with your family or join another group. Our captains will make you have a safe and great time. You can book your tour here or call us at 352-643-0708.
