Cruising the St. Johns River is one of the most relaxing and interesting things to do in Florida.
I have had the privilege of meandering along the gentle currents of the St. Johns River, and I can attest that few activities rival its charm.
As such, in this article, I will highlight the top 6 St. Johns River Boat Tours and Cruises that you should consider.
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#6. St. Johns River Eco Tours
Enjoy a boat tour along St. John’s River aboard the most eco-friendly boat on the river.
Operating from the Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort, the tour enables tourists to see alligators, manatees, and birds and take nature pictures.
#5. St. Johns River Cruises
This company operates from Blue Spring State Park and provides one-and-a-half-hour tours on St Johns River.
The rides are eco-friendly, and you also get to see wildlife like manatees and alligators.
There are two sizes of pontoon boats: the 60-passenger and 47-passenger, depending on the size of the group or whichever is available at the time.
#4. Blue Heron River Tours
With a capacity of 49 passengers, Blue Heron River Tours operates daily between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The knowledgeable captain indulges the tourists and tells them all about old settlements in the area.
You will also see different vegetation and wildlife, like birds, alligators, and manatees.
#3. St. Johns River Airboat Tour, LLC
This family-owned airboat is open daily between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. and has several shifts throughout the day.
If you can book a sunset cruise, that would be best as the views are pristine.
The captain will take you to spots where you can see alligators and birds such as herons, ibis, eagles, turkeys, and vultures.
Take a boat trip on the Saint John’s River, see local wildlife from an airship, and learn about nearby wetlands with this GetYourGuide tour.
#2. Rivership Barbara-Lee
Take a three-hour cruise on a Rivership Barbara Lee paddle boat along St. Johns River.
This tour company provides a feel of party beaches in Florida with its live entertainment, scenic views, and relaxing atmosphere.
It also offers its famous sticky buns for lunch and a selection of cuisines for dinner.
#1. Astor Bridge Marina & Boat Tours
The marina offers different boat tours on St. Johns River: scenic tours, sunset cruises, and wildlife-watching trips.
The tours are one or two hours long, depending on the type of cruise. It is advisable to book early to confirm availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about the St. Johns River?
The St. Johns River has one of the lowest drops in elevation, giving it a rank among the ‘laziest’ rivers in the world.
As such, its headwaters are only 27 inches higher than its ending. It drops only an inch per mile through its 310 miles.
Can you boat on St. Johns River?
Yes, you can boat the entire length of St. Johns River. Other activities that visitors can take part in in the river include kayaking and swimming, especially during summer.
Where does St. Johns River begin and end?
The St. John River starts inland at the Veron Beach Area of Indian River County. It converges north of Jacksonville at the Atlantic Ocean.
How far can you boat on the St. Johns River?
The river stretches over a distance of 310 miles, making it the longest in Florida. You can boat for whichever distance you want within this stretch or the whole length of the river if the conditions allow.
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Final Words
Ensure you make the most out of the cruising along St. Johns River.
Take pictures to take home as mementos, and most of all, prioritize your safety. The tour companies may provide you with the utmost safety while onboard their boats, but you can never be too safe while on water.
For that reason, it is advisable to consider appropriate travel insurance options before embarking on your adventures.
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