Airboat Safari

The big agenda item of the day is to head back out US 41, also known has Tamiami Trail to find us an airboat ride. The Tamiami Trail was for Tampa to Miami, construction started in 1915 and officially opened in 1928. We stopped at Gator Park just long enough for Crystal (aka Gator Girl) to get a really overpriced hat. There was just something about the place we decided to hit the next one down the road.



We ended up at Everglade Safari, bought some tickets, saving money on them because my National Park Senior Pass covered the fee for entering Everglades National Park.



We had to hang around a bit before we hit the water, so I wandered around and grabbed some snaps





We finally boarded and hit the Everglades on our quest to see wildlife and alligators. You would have thought we were in NYC boarding a subway during rush hour the way the folks clamored to get on the boat. We ended up in the back, which was all right with me. They did give us ear plugs for the ride, since the twin V8's powering the boat didn't come equipped with mufflers.



Our Captain did stop a few times to give us some history and background information on the Everglades. He did come to a particular spot, slowing for us to spot the obligatory alligator photo opportunity.





Once he got the alligator, he headed back in and the boat ride was over. I am guessing the ride was 30 to 45 minutes, which in the scheme of things was more than enough time. How long can one look at water, sawgrass and lily pads. Back at the dock Everglade Safari has a little show about alligators and you can even hold one.







After the show and the touchy feely session we headed into the lunch room for some fried alligator. Maybe that was what the farm was all about. All in all it was a great experience. From here we headed into Miami for some more sight seeing.