Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour: Where Authentic Takes Sail
On a nice day, follow the signs "Scenic Boat Tour" to the very end of East Morse Boulevard in Winter Park. It may seem completely inconspicuous, but hidden down by the waters of Lake Osceola is the dock for the Winter Park Boat Tour, a guided tour through the parts of Winter Park not visible by automobile. The "Winter Park Navy", established in 1938, consists of several 18 passenger open-air pontoon boats lead by knowledgeable and local guides. The tour cruises through three of the chain of seven lakes. The lakes are connected by a series of canals built by lumberjacks during the 1890's when the area was heavily forested. These canals are so narrow and covered with such old dense vegetation that they are almost more fun to be in than the open water. Out on the open water, however, your guide will point out historical or architecturally significant homes and native plants and critters. The 60 minute tours leave on the hour between 10AM and 4PM every day but Christmas. Be sure to bring cash or check only ($10/Adult and $5/Child). To be honest, I expected to show up on a Sunday afternoon and find another five or so people waiting to take the tour. I was pleasantly surprised however to find that my 3:00 tour filled four boats completely. This is a great way to take a fresh look around Winter Park. Residents of Winter Park very proudly see their town as one that shines as its own, not as an Orlando suburb. After the cruise, be sure to stroll two blocks up to Park Avenue for a stroll. Address: 312 East Morse Blvd. Winter Park, FL 32789 Phone: 407-644-4056 Website: http://www.scenicboattours.com/ Views: |
