The wetlands cover more than 800 sq. miles. Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States—a place where land and water blur into one. The Florida Everglades is best explored from the water, as opposed to most national parks.
Nearly one-third is navigable waterways. Narrow channels wind their way through dense mangroves, while countless islands dot the Florida coast. “The boating here is like no other.” The vast network of waterways is comprised of marshes, mangrove forests and slow-moving river systems. Boatmart in a blog post. The more remote areas are only accessible via airboat, canoe, or kayak.
How can you get out on the water even if you are not an experienced boater or paddler? What are the things you should know before you go, and which tours can be taken by first-time visitors to the area? You’ll find all the information you need here.
Where to Rent A Boat
Rent your own boat head to Flamingo Marina You’ll also find fuel and supplies. For a free powerboat rental within Everglades National Park, you will need to fill out the park’s online application. Boater Education Program Get your certificate. Keep in mind that a powerboat rental is not the best option for exploring deep into the park. powerboat rentals are only allowed Coot Bay & Whitewater Bay
How to Book a Boat Tour
Visitors who don’t wish to navigate a vessel or explore further into the park may want to consider booking a guided boat tour. There are three airboat tour companies that operate in the park—Coopertown, Everglades Safari Park, and Gator Park—along with some more traditional boat tours. Some of these tours travel through the park’s famous Ten Thousand Islands. the expansive Florida BayOthers venture into Florida’s backcountry.
Everglades National Park Boating: What you need to know
The park offers a free Boater Education program for anyone interested in captaining a boat. Boaters must print out their certificate and bring it along with them whenever they operate a vessel inside the park. The park has several maps This guide is intended to help boaters better understand where and how they can travel on a boat. information on manatee protection zones Where can you find out more? motorized boats are currently prohibited.
