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4/26/24 — 4/28/24 4/26/24 — 4/30/24 4/26/24 — 5/2/24 or
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Gulf Airboat Ride & Dolphin Quest - Homosassa Book Now 21 Available Book Now 15 Available Book Now 20 Available Book Now 13 Available Book Now 12 Available Book Now 24 Available Book Now 22 Available
Gulf Airboat Ride & Dolphin Quest - Homosassa

Gulf Airboat Ride & Dolphin Quest - Homosassa

Our most popular ride takes you beyond the Safari and zooms through backwaters, estuaries and passed the Historic Indian shell mounds. Feel your troubles slip away and keep your eyes peeled as we search for dolphins together!

Our most popular ride takes you beyond the Safari and zooms through backwaters, estuaries and passed the Historic Indian shell mounds. We will then glide through saltwater marshes leading  to the clear, shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Sponges, corals, and fish fly by as birds beckon from the islands around. Keep your eyes peeled on the horizon, sometimes dolphins surprise us as they play and frolic in the area! Go ahead, let out a Howl at the Gulf and feel your troubles slip away! 

The meandering madness of this tour will knock your socks off! If you are looking for adventure and were born to be wild….then this is the boat ride for you! Brace yourself, hold-on, feel the speed explode beneath you as we twist and turn through the mangroves, canals and backwaters of Homosassa! 

Air boats explore areas that other boats simply can not go and will leave your head buzzing with excitement! Wildlife abounds as we glide off the beaten trail and head back in time to the beauty of ‘Old Florida’s Nature Coast’! Remember, we are never guaranteed to see wildlife on any tour, but our Captains do their best to live up to your expectations!

Feel alive again as our USCG Captain operates in confidence for an adrenaline rush that leaves many with goosebumps! Ride, slide, glide! Let out a whooping Yee-Haw! Hold on to your hat and find your smiling adventure seeker amid the birds, dolphins and fish. For families and thrill-seekers alike, exploring the backwater salt-marshes where other boats can not delivers a Pure Florida Experience that will take your breath away!  

  • 1.5 hour tour
  • Led USCG Master Captain and eco-tour guide
  • Bottled water is available complimentary
  • Join a group tour or book for a private excursion
  • Minimum of 3 paid seats to operate, if you've booked 2 people and no one else has booked, we will offer other tour times or offer the 3rd seat at a discounted rate
  • Tour departs from River Safaris
    Meeting point:

    10823 W Yulee Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448


Available 7 days a week. Please call for booking if within 24 hours. Parties of 2 people, please call to book, as our minimum to operate is 3 people. 


What to Bring


We provide you with everything you need to enjoy this adventure, but there are a few things that we recommend. Sunscreen and insect repellant are a good idea, as are sunglasses for eye protection. During the cooler months, dress accordingly! Pants, jackets, even a small blanket will help to keep you warm. We provide you with bottled water and headgear for ear protection. Airboats are loud! If you wear a hat, you may have to hold onto your head, so we don’t recommend it!


Tour Information


If you have never taken an airboat ride....get ready for an adventure! You will start at our airboat facility. You will meet our Master Captain and tour guide at the launch location and head out into the waterways of Homosassa for a roaring good time. Keep your eyes open, there is so much natural beauty to take in while you zoom along!


How fast do airboats go?


Racing airboats can reach speeds of over 130 mph, of course this can be very dangerous! Our airboat is much safer....while it is fast, we will not go over 45 to 50 mph. It doesn’t go quite as fast on land as on water, and we always use caution!


What should I expect to see?


Every day is different when it comes to wildlife, and we highly recommend the morning ride if you hope to view wild animals. The variety of birds will amaze you, we often have dolphin sightings, sometimes manatee, and on a very good day, we may even spot a gator or two!!


Where does the Airboat tour start from? / Where do we meet our Captain?


You will meet your airboat captain at 10823 W Yulee Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448. 

Please arrive at the dock 15 minutes before your scheduled tour departs. 
Maps and directions to both locations are included in the map links below and your booking confirmation email.
map

How long is the drive from River Ventures in Crystal River to River Safaris in Homosassa?


The drive is approximately 15 minutes from our shop in Crystal River. 

Maps and directions to both locations are included in the map links below and your email confirmation.

map

What ages can ride on the airboat?


There is no maximum age for air boating, but relatively good health is recommended. Children should be over 5, and accompanied by an adult.


Can I ride the air boat if I’m pregnant?


This can be a bumpy ride, so we recommend getting advised by your Doctor before you book your Airboat trip.


Do we go out rain or shine?


A small amount of rain will not stop us, but the speed can make the rain more powerful. Long sleeves or rain parkas are a good idea if there is more than a sprinkle. We would also give you the option to reschedule if the weather makes you uncomfortable. High winds, heavy rain, lightning; any conditions that our Captain deems unsafe would cause us to cancel or postpone. People often travel long distances to participate in our tours, so we only cancel when absolutely necessary!


Should I book a reservation?


Reservations are always recommended here at River Ventures. Our boats often fill to capacity and the air boat only seats 6. If you are hoping to take a ride, at least call us so we can let you know what availability looks like. We welcome walk ins, however; we hate to disappoint so reservations are a super idea!


Cancellation Policy

Reservations cancelled five calendar days prior to Tour, Charter or Rental arrival date will receive a full refund less the booking fee of 4%. Any Tour, Charter or Rental cancelled by River Safaris or River Ventures due to inclement weather or other conditions beyond our control shall receive a 100% refund.



Reservations cancelled less than the time period or conditions outlined above will be offered a chance to reschedule (based on availability) or receive a voucher for the Tour, Charter or Rental for the full amount paid. Vouchers have no expiration and may be used towards any Tour, Charter, or Rental. If this should happen we make every effort to notify you as soon as possible. We determine cancellation by the date the reservation of a boat rental is made. Make your reservations early to avoid this happening to you!




  • Duration : 90 Minutes (approx.)
From USD $74.00

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The Spectacular Scenic Safari Airboat - Homosassa Book Now 18 Available Book Now 6 Available Book Now 18 Available Book Now 12 Available Book Now 12 Available Book Now 24 Available Book Now 18 Available
The Spectacular Scenic Safari Airboat - Homosassa

The Spectacular Scenic Safari Airboat - Homosassa

This one hour trip is the perfect introduction to air boating! Slide through palm covered canals, twist around mangrove covered islands and breathe in the salty air while nature dances all around you!

This one hour trip is the perfect introduction to air boating! Slide through palm covered canals, twist around mangrove covered islands and breathe in the salty air while nature dances all around you! We’ll take you across portions of Battle Creek, Sam’s Bayou, Salt River and the Little Homosassa, even exploring Shiver’s Bay before returning to our home dock. Affordable for the whole family and fun for all ages, this fun ride will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated!

If you are looking for adventure and were born to be wild….then this is the boat ride for you! Brace yourself, hold-on, feel the speed explode beneath you as we twist and turn through the mangroves, canals and backwaters of Homosassa! 

Airboats explore areas that other boats simply can not go and will leave your head buzzing with excitement! Wildlife abounds as we glide off the beaten trail and head back in time to the beauty of ‘Old Florida’s Nature Coast’! 

Feel alive again as our USCG Captain operates in confidence for an adrenaline rush that leaves many with goosebumps! Ride, slide, glide! Let out a whooping Yee-Haw! Hold on to your hat and find your smiling adventure seeker amid the birds, dolphins and fish. For families and thrill-seekers alike, exploring the backwater salt-marshes where other boats can not delivers a Pure Florida Experience that will take your breath away!  

  • 1 hour tour
  • Led by USCG Master Captain and eco-tour guide
  • Bottled water is available complimentary
  • Join a group tour or book for a private excursion
  • Minimum of 3 paid seats to operate, if you've booked 2 people and no one else has booked, we will offer other tour times or offer the 3rd seat at a discounted rate
  • Tour departs from River Safaris
    Meeting point:

    10823 W Yulee Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448

Available 7 days a week. Please call for bookings within 24 hours of tour. Please call to book parties of 2 so we can easily accommodate as our minimum to run is 3.


What to Bring


We provide you with everything you need to enjoy this adventure, but there are a few things that we recommend. Sunscreen and insect repellant are a good idea, as are sunglasses for eye protection. During the cooler months, dress accordingly! Pants, jackets, even a small blanket will help to keep you warm. We provide you with bottled water and headgear for ear protection. Airboats are loud! If you wear a hat, you may have to hold onto your head, so we don’t recommend it!


Tour Information


If you have never taken an airboat ride....get ready for an adventure! You will start at our airboat facility. You will meet our Master Captain and tour guide at the launch location and head out into the waterways of Homosassa for a roaring good time. Keep your eyes open, there is so much natural beauty to take in while you zoom along!


How fast do airboats go?


Racing airboats can reach speeds of over 130 mph, of course this can be very dangerous! Our airboat is much safer....while it is fast, we will not go over 45 to 50 mph. It doesn’t go quite as fast on land as on water, and we always use caution!


What should I expect to see?


Every day is different when it comes to wildlife, and we highly recommend the morning ride if you hope to view wild animals. The variety of birds will amaze you, we often have dolphin sightings, sometimes manatee, and on a very good day, we may even spot a gator or two!!


Where does the Airboat tour start from? / Where do we meet our Captain?


You will meet your airboat captain at 10823 W Yulee Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448. 

Please arrive at the dock 15 minutes before your scheduled tour departs. 
Maps and directions to both locations are included in the map links below and your booking confirmation email.
map

How long is the drive from River Ventures in Crystal River to River Safaris in Homosassa?


The drive is approximately 15 minutes from our shop in Crystal River. 

Maps and directions to both locations are included in the map links below and your email confirmation.

map

What ages can ride on the airboat?


There is no maximum age for air boating, but relatively good health is recommended. Children should be over 5, and accompanied by an adult.


Can I ride the air boat if I’m pregnant?


This can be a bumpy ride, so we recommend getting advised by your Doctor before you book your Airboat trip.


Do we go out rain or shine?


A small amount of rain will not stop us, but the speed can make the rain more powerful. Long sleeves or rain parkas are a good idea if there is more than a sprinkle. We would also give you the option to reschedule if the weather makes you uncomfortable. High winds, heavy rain, lightning; any conditions that our Captain deems unsafe would cause us to cancel or postpone. People often travel long distances to participate in our tours, so we only cancel when absolutely necessary!


Should I book a reservation?


Reservations are always recommended here at River Ventures. Our boats often fill to capacity and the air boat only seats 6. If you are hoping to take a ride, at least call us so we can let you know what availability looks like. We welcome walk ins, however; we hate to disappoint so reservations are a super idea!

Cancellation Policy:

Reservations cancelled five calendar days prior to Tour, Charter or Rental arrival date will receive a full refund less the booking fee of 4%. Any Tour, Charter or Rental cancelled by River Safaris or River Ventures due to inclement weather or other conditions beyond our control shall receive a 100% refund.


Reservations cancelled less than the time period or conditions outlined above will be offered a chance to reschedule (based on availability) or receive a voucher for the Tour, Charter or Rental for the full amount paid. Vouchers have no expiration and may be used towards any Tour, Charter, or Rental. If this should happen we make every effort to notify you as soon as possible. We determine cancellation by the date the reservation of a boat rental is made. Make your reservations early to avoid this happening to you!

  • Duration : 60 Minutes (approx.)
From USD $57.00

Enter Number of Participants *

Choose a Time *

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THE DIAMOND DUO - VIP Swim with Manatee Tour AND Gulf Airboat Ride and Dolphin Quest × × Book Now 22 Available Book Now 25 Available Book Now 7 Available Book Now 12 Available Book Now 16 Available
THE DIAMOND DUO - VIP Swim with Manatee Tour AND Gulf Airboat Ride and Dolphin Quest

THE DIAMOND DUO - VIP Swim with Manatee Tour AND Gulf Airboat Ride and Dolphin Quest

First, take our luxury VIP swim with manatee package and follow it up with an air boat ride that will take your breath away! Add them together for the perfect way to spend your day! Luxury Combination of our two most popular tours.

If you want a full day of adventure, boy o boy, do we have the plan for you! If you are coming to Crystal River for the manatees, then why not stay for an air boat tour on the beautiful Homosassa River? We can set it all up for you, and take care of the details from beginning to end! We always recommend an early manatee tour, and then we will set you up on the next available air boat that coordinates with the end of your manatee experience. Our air boats run from our River Safari location about a 20 minute drive South of Crystal River and is the perfect compliment to the manatee snorkel tour. Transfer between locations is not included. Time between tours could be up to 1.5 hours, please call for exact times and availability for airboat tour.


TOUR #1: VIP Swim with the Manatee Tour - Crystal River


Enjoy the unique privilege that is exclusively ours here in Citrus County Florida by swimming with the manatees in the spring-fed King’s Bay Wildlife Refuge! Crystal River is home to the world’s largest population of endangered manatee during the winter season, and even a small population the warm months.  Having the chance to encounter these curious, gentle giants in their natural habitat is an adventure that your family will never forget! 

Embark on your journey with a Coast Guard Certified Master Captain who will be your in water chaperon, educator and photographer. Your tour will run three hours from start to finish and everything you will need is included for one price. You will begin at our full-service tour facility, where you will be educated about the animals in a classroom type setting and receive tips for your snorkel tour to make the most of your day. You will be taught the in’s and out’s of ‘passive interaction’ as this ensures that the animals enjoy the experience as much as we do! You will then be suited up and transported to the dock, where a Coast Guard certified covered pontoon will be waiting for you. This rich estuary will amaze…..birds, fish and wildlife abound! Submerge yourself in the manatee’s world! Finish your adventure by viewing your Captain’s photos back at our facility and be sure to visit our one-of-a-kind gift shop! Our well-informed staff will direct to other local attractions, restaurants and answer of your questions before you are on your way.

Be treated like royalty on our Komfort Kruiser and see the Wildlife Refuge in style! Customized, luxury pontoon seats up to six and offers you a comfortable, more personalized 3 hour excursion! 

  •  3 hour tour from start to finish
  •  Masks, snorkels, and wetsuits included
  •  Coffee, tea, hot cocoa, juice, water and Captain’s cocktails included
  •  Photo package available at the end of your tour
  •  Maximum capacity of 6 people
  • Tour departs from River Ventures; Meeting Point - 498 SE Kings Bay Dr. Crystal River, FL 34429

Tour #2: Gulf Airboat Ride & Dolphin Quest - Homosassa


The meandering madness of this tour will knock your socks off! If you are looking for adventure and were born to be wild….then this is the boat ride for you! Brace yourself, hold-on, feel the speed explode beneath you as we twist and turn through the mangroves, canals and backwaters of Homosassa! Keep your eyes peeled on the horizon, sometimes dolphins surprise us as they play and frolic in the area! Go ahead, let out a Howl at the Gulf and feel your troubles slip away! 


Feel alive again as our USCG Captain operates in confidence for an adrenaline rush that leaves many with goosebumps! Ride, slide, glide! Let out a whooping Yee-Haw! Hold on to your hat and find your smiling adventure seeker amid the birds, dolphins and fish. For families and thrill-seekers alike, exploring the backwater salt-marshes where other boats can not delivers a Pure Florida Experience that will take your breath away!  

  • 1.5 hour tour
  • Led USCG Master Captain and eco-tour guide
  • Available Private or Semi-private
  • Bottled water is available complimentary
  • Join a group tour or book for a private excursion
  • Tour departs from River Safaris; Meeting Point - 10823 W Yulee Dr. Homosassa, FL 34446
  • We will schedule your airboat tour for a convenient departure time and contact you after booking with the exact time of this portion of your tour, the airboats are scheduled to depart at 9am,11am,1pm,3pm and 5pm(when daylight allows). Scheduling depends on manatee tour return time and availability. 


  • Duration : 5 Hours (approx.)
From USD $153.00

Enter Number of Participants *

Choose a Time *

Book Now
THE ENDANGERED EXPRESS - 'The OG' Swim with Manatee Tour AND Gulf Airboat Ride and Dolphin Quest × × Book Now 52 Available Book Now 30 Available Book Now 28 Available Book Now 72 Available Book Now 83 Available
THE ENDANGERED EXPRESS - 'The OG' Swim with Manatee Tour AND Gulf Airboat Ride and Dolphin Quest

THE ENDANGERED EXPRESS - 'The OG' Swim with Manatee Tour AND Gulf Airboat Ride and Dolphin Quest

Come to Crystal River for the manatee, and stay for an air boat tour on the Homosassa River. Exclusive two tours in one. We'll set it all up for you, and take care of the details.

If you want a full day of adventure, boy o boy, do we have the plan for you! If you are coming to Crystal River for the manatees, then why not stay for an air boat tour on the beautiful Homosassa River? We can set it all up for you, and take care of the details from beginning to end! We always recommend an early manatee tour, and then we will set you up on the next available air boat that coordinates with the end of your manatee experience. Our air boats run from our River Safari location about a 20 minute drive South of Crystal River and is the perfect compliment to the manatee snorkel tour. Time between tours could be up to 1.5 hours, please call for exact times and availability for airboat tour.

TOUR #1: Swim with the Manatee Tour - Crystal River


Enjoy the unique privilege that is exclusively ours here in Citrus County Florida by swimming with the manatees in the spring-fed King’s Bay Wildlife Refuge! Crystal River is home to the world’s largest population of endangered manatee during the winter season, and even a small population the warm months.  Having the chance to encounter these curious, gentle giants in their natural habitat is an adventure that your family will never forget! 

Embark on your journey with a Coast Guard Certified Master Captain who will be your in water chaperon, educator and photographer. Your tour will run three hours from start to finish and everything you will need is included for one price. You will begin at our full-service tour facility, where you will be educated about the animals in a classroom type setting and receive tips for your snorkel tour to make the most of your day. You will be taught the in’s and out’s of ‘passive interaction’ as this ensures that the animals enjoy the experience as much as we do! You will then be suited up and transported to the dock, where a Coast Guard certified covered pontoon will be waiting for you. This rich estuary will amaze…..birds, fish and wildlife abound! Submerge yourself in the manatee’s world! Finish your adventure by viewing your Captain’s photos back at our facility and be sure to visit our one-of-a-kind gift shop! Our well-informed staff will direct to other local attractions, restaurants and answer of your questions before you are on your way.

This encounter with our endangered manatee is done on a covered pontoon and is perfect for all levels of snorkel experience. Don’t miss the boat!

  •  3 hour tour from start to finish
  •  Masks, snorkels, and wetsuits included
  •  Bottled water included on board
  •  Photo package available at the end of your tour
  •  Pontoon boats hold up to 12 people, but the average is 8
  • Tour departs from River Ventures; Meeting Point - 498 SE Kings Bay Dr. Crystal River, FL 34429

Tour #2: Gulf Airboat Ride & Dolphin Quest - Homosassa


The meandering madness of this tour will knock your socks off! If you are looking for adventure and were born to be wild….then this is the boat ride for you! Brace yourself, hold-on, feel the speed explode beneath you as we twist and turn through the mangroves, canals and backwaters of Homosassa! Keep your eyes peeled on the horizon, sometimes dolphins surprise us as they play and frolic in the area! Go ahead, let out a Howl at the Gulf and feel your troubles slip away! 


Feel alive again as our USCG Captain operates in confidence for an adrenaline rush that leaves many with goosebumps! Ride, slide, glide! Let out a whooping Yee-Haw! Hold on to your hat and find your smiling adventure seeker amid the birds, dolphins and fish. For families and thrill-seekers alike, exploring the backwater salt-marshes where other boats can not delivers a Pure Florida Experience that will take your breath away!  

  • 1.5 hour tour
  • Led USCG Master Captain and eco-tour guide
  • Available Private or Semi-private
  • Bottled water is available complimentary
  • Join a group tour or book for a private excursion
  • Tour departs from River Safaris; Meeting Point - 10823 W Yulee Dr. Homosassa, FL 34446
  • We will schedule your airboat tour for a convenient departure time and contact you after booking with the exact time of this portion of your tour, the airboats are scheduled to depart at 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm(when daylight allows). Airboat tour scheduling time is dependent on return from manatee tour and availability. 


  • Duration : 5 Hours (approx.)
From USD $123.00

Enter Number of Participants *

Choose a Time *

Book Now