Airboats are also known as a planeboats, swamp boats, bayou boats, or fanboats. They are a flat-bottomed watercraft propelled by an aircraft-type propeller and powered by an engine. Airboats have become very popular in tourism and they are commonly used for fishing, bowfishing and hunting. In the 1930s airboats became well liked in the United States since they were individually invented and used by some Floridians, the ones living in or around the Everglades. Some Floridians who invented their own airboats include frog hunter Johnny Lamb, who built a 75-horsepower airboat in 1933 he called the “whooshmobile” and Chokoloskee Gladesmen Ernest and Willard Yates, who built an airboat in 1935 they steered via reins attached to a crude wooden rudder.
Airboats are iconics in the Everglades, and they can go anywhere whether it’s shallow or deeper waters.
Airboats are considered safe for riders, wildlife, and plant life.
Airboats don’t redirect natural water currents or alter surface hydrology as much as regular boats.
Airboats, unlike regular boats, don’t cause soil and organic particles in the water to rise up and affect plants, fish, and other wildlife in the water.
Airboats do not have any moving parts under the water, which makes it safer in the water for fish and plants nearby.
Airboats are stable. On an airboat tour, you get a great view of your surroundings because of the raised seating.
Airboats can travel at different speeds to handle different situations. They can easily handle dense vegetation, sandbanks, dam walls, floating grass islands, and rocks in the water. They’re the perfect ride for a day at the Everglades.
Embarking on an airboat ride or tour in the Everglades is an unparalleled experience that immerses you in the natural wonders of this unique ecosystem. The thrill of gliding through the marshes, encountering fascinating wildlife, and witnessing the Everglades’ captivating beauty will create memories that last a lifetime.
Everglades Tours at Ride the Wind
Come explore the Everglades safely in a fully private Everglades airboat. It’s a truly unique experience that you can’t miss. Contact us today to book your trip!
