Te Anhinga Spirit offers trips down the Ocklawaha River in the company of an experienced local captain. The trip can be tailored to your specific needs, whether it is to fish, learn about the environment or for a special occasion. Facilities are basic, but the 24-foot pontoon boat has sun and rain protection and a bathroom on board. It has a six-person capacity.
16275 NE 149th Ave,
Fort McCoy, FL 32134
352-546 5718
captainerikasfloridaboatcharters.com
The Fort King Army stockade, a Seminole Indian village, a riverboat dock and train depot dating from the 1880s and an authentic Florida homestead are some of the sights you’ll see on the Fort King River cruise in Silver Springs Nature Park. The area has 10,000 years of history and interactive exhibits and a working archaeological dig help put it into context. Boats are basic but comfortable with sun protection.
5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd.
Silver Springs, FL 34488
352-236 2121
silversprings.com
The Silver Springs Nature Park offers sights of osprey, heron and basking alligators as it drifts past tall, bald cypress trees. The cruise includes a stop at a wildlife post where naturalists can answer questions and offer information about breeding programs and wildlife rehabilitation. The boats are simple, but comfortable, small river cruisers.
5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd.
Silver Springs, FL 34488
352-236 2121
silversprings.com
The Silver River Spirit offers a free cruise in a very basic, glass-bottom, eight-man boat. The 3.5 hour tour takes in three miles of the Silver River departing from the Ocala Boat Club in Silver Springs. Cruises are seasonal and can get booked up, so early online-booking is advisable. Time is allowed for a free lunch and swimming, and there are towels on board for passenger use.
9570 NE 28th Ln
Silver Springs, FL 34488
352-236 3227
glass-bottom-boat.com
