The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour has operated since 1938 from a dock at 312 E Morse Boulevard, a short walk from Park Avenue in Winter Park. The one-hour guided cruise travels through three of the Winter Park chain of lakes and the narrow hand-dug canals that link them, passing mansions, cypress-lined channels and Rollins College. Pontoon boats carry up to 40 passengers, and the captain narrates the history of the lakes and the estates. Tickets cost about $20 USD for adults and $10 USD for children, and departures run hourly on the hour from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, except Christmas Day. Reservations are not required, so arriving 20 minutes early works well, especially on winter weekends. The boats are covered, and the trip runs in light rain. Look for herons, ospreys, turtles and occasional alligators along the shore. Restrooms are at the dock, and street parking and nearby garages serve the area. The tour suits all ages and ability levels, but boarding involves stepping onto a boat.
| Price | About $20 USD per adult and $10 USD per child (ages 2-11); confirm current rates at scenicboattours.com |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 hour |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | Year-round; departures every hour on the hour, roughly 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Christmas Day |
| Address | 312 E Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789 |
Activity facts
- Where
- Winter Park Chain of Lakes
Equipment
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Light jacket in winter
Location
312 E Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
28.5979, -81.3468 View on map
Highlights
- Hourly 1-hour cruise through the Winter Park chain of lakes
- Hand-dug canals and lakefront mansions
- Operating since 1938
- Short walk from Park Avenue
Tips for visiting
- Arrive 20 minutes before departure on weekends.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen; the canopy gives partial cover.
- Check the website for weather cancellations.
- Sit on the shaded side in summer.
- Pair the cruise with lunch on Park Avenue.
When to visit
Year-round; departures every hour on the hour, roughly 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Christmas Day.
Accessibility
Boarding involves a step down to the boat; ask the operator about assistance for wheelchair users.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take?
Plan for 1 hour.
How much does it cost?
About $20 USD per adult and $10 USD per child (ages 2-11); confirm current rates at scenicboattours.com.
When is the best time to go?
Year-round; departures every hour on the hour, roughly 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Christmas Day.
Is a reservation needed?
No, tickets are sold at the dock, though weekends in winter can sell out.