So, the flights, hotel, and transportation are all booked, so what will you do once you get to the Sunshine State? Some travelers may prefer a hands-on approach to vacation planning; however, jam-packed schedules may get in the way of that. Travel agents are a great resource for planning out adventures like a theme park visit or an airboat ride in the Everglades at Wild Florida. Or, they may want to get a second opinion on what they should do while on vacation.
To help you pick the best airboat ride in Florida for you and your family, here are five questions you should ask your travel agent when planning your vacation.
1. “WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BOOK MY AIRBOAT RIDE NEAR ORLANDO?”
You’ll be able to see wildlife in Central Florida throughout the year, but gators can be a little tougher to spot during hotter months. However, that does not mean you won’t see an alligator at all in the summer. These months are prime for mating, nesting, and hatching seasons.
What about cold days, you ask? You’re all set. Gators are unable to regulate their internal temperature, so like most reptiles, they sunbathe to keep warm.
2. “WHERE DO AIRBOAT RIDES IN THE EVERGLADES TAKE PLACE?”
Believe it or not, Florida holds the title of having the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, which, as you can imagine, means there is a lot of ground (or swamp) to cover. While Wild Florida is located in the headwaters of the Everglades, there are airboat tours in the Everglades all across the state. So, when you speak with your travel agent, try to keep the location of your hotel and other accommodations in mind.
3. “IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE TO DO AT THIS LOCATION? OR ANYTHING NEARBY?”
As we mentioned earlier, Wild Florida isn’t the only airboat company located in Florida, but that certainly doesn’t mean they are all the same! When planning your trip with your travel agent, be sure to check with them to see if there are any adventure packages or other activities at the location. That way, you can prioritize your time and decide if you want to dedicate a whole or half a day of your vacation to ecotourism.
At Wild Florida, you and your family can enjoy the Gator Park, which is included in the purchase of any airboat ride. Inside, you’ll be able to see animals native to Florida and those found around the world, all for FREE!
4. “ARE MY TICKETS REFUNDABLE? CAN I USE THEM FOR A FUTURE TRIP FOR A FEE?”
Life truly is unpredictable, no matter how much you plan. Be sure to check with your travel agent about an airboat company’s refund or reschedule policy. This way, you’ll be prepared for unexpected sickness, bad weather, or any other vacation bumps down the road.
5. “WHAT ARE THE SAFETY FEATURES AND RULES FOR AIRBOAT RIDES IN THE EVERGLADES?”
Along with making sure you have a great time exploring the natural side of Florida, safety is a primary concern while you’re on your airboat ride. Since Wild Florida is located on Lake Cypress—considered navigable waters—they follow the U.S. Coast Guard’s rules and regulations when it comes to boat safety. They have monthly airboat inspections, hearing protection, and life vests available before and during your airboat ride. These are just a few of the airboat safety procedures Wild Florida has in place.
It’s important to note that even the best airboat rides in Florida may have different safety features in place. So, remember to ask your travel agent to book you with a company that prioritizes safety!
Are you excited to see gators on your airboat ride in Orlando? Now that you’ve run through these questions and answers, call your travel agent to be sure you and your family can get on an airboat ride when you make it down to Florida! If you choose Wild Florida, be sure to walk through the Gator Park after hanging out on Lake Cypress to see even more wild and exotic animals.