Night Airboat Tours Near Orlando
As the sun drops below the cypress trees, the St. Johns River transforms. The heat fades. The swamp wakes up. This isn't just a tour in the dark. It's a completely different ecosystem experience.
While most visitors only see Florida during blazing afternoon sun, the real action happens after twilight. Daytime basking gators become active hunters. Owls replace eagles in the sky. The air cools significantly. The chorus of pig frogs and insects replaces the birdsong.
314 Five-Star Reviews | 90-Minute Tours | 30 Minutes from Orlando
If you think you've seen the swamp, think again. The signature moment of every night tour is the "eyeshine." When we shine our spotlight across the water, you won't just see darkness. You'll see dozens of glowing red-orange dots staring back at you.
This phenomenon is caused by a reflective layer in the alligator's eye called the tapetum lucidum, which helps them see in low light. It allows us to spot gators from hundreds of feet away.
Because alligators are nocturnal hunters, guests often see more alligator activity at night than during the day.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife that sleeps while tourists are awake. We frequently spot barred owls (listen for their distinct "who cooks for you" call), black-crowned night herons, and raccoons fishing at the water's edge.
The first thing you'll notice is the volume. The swamp is surprisingly loud at night. You'll hear the deep grunts of pig frogs (which really do sound like pigs), chirping crickets, and the splash of garfish breaking the surface.
There's something primal about gliding through dark water with only a spotlight cutting through blackness. Cypress trees cast long, dancing shadows. Look up and see a sky full of stars above the river.
Dinner and a movie is fine, but an airboat ride under the stars is a story you'll tell for years. It's thrilling, intimate, and unlike any other date night in Orlando.
If you've already done a daytime airboat tour, you haven't "been there, done that." The night tour offers a completely fresh perspective on the same river.
Orlando summers are hot. By booking a night tour, you escape the humid midday sun. Temperatures on the river can feel 10-15 degrees cooler after sunset.
There's an undeniable adrenaline rush when you step onto a boat in the dark. It's an adventure that feels wild and untamed, without actually being dangerous.
Yes. While the environment is wild, your safety is never left to chance. Captain Seth has navigated these specific waters for over 15 years, many of those hours logged at night.
Our private 6-passenger boats are equipped with high-powered lighting systems for safe navigation and wildlife spotting. You're not exploring unknown territory. You're riding with a USCG Master Captain who knows every turn of the river.
Bring bug spray since insects are more active at night. However, as long as the boat is moving, the breeze keeps most pests away. We also suggest a light jacket. Even in summer, the air can feel brisk at speed.
Varies by sunset
(typically 7:30-8:30 PM)
90 minutes
$65 per person
Private tours for up to 6
28500 E Colonial Dr, Christmas, FL 32709
(30 minutes from Orlando)
"We booked this because it was too hot during the day to do anything outside. Best decision we made. The temperature dropped at least 15 degrees once the sun went down, and seeing all those glowing eyes was incredible."
Rachel T.
TripAdvisor
"My husband and I did this as a date night alternative to the usual Orlando stuff. Captain Seth made it fun and informative. The highlight was when he cut the engine and let us just listen to the swamp sounds."
Amanda K.
TripAdvisor
"Completely different from the daytime tour we did last year. The kids were fascinated by spotting gator eyes with the flashlight. We saw way more activity at night."
The Garcia Family
TripAdvisor
You'll likely see more active alligators. During the day, gators mostly sleep and sunbathe. At night, they're hunting. The spotlight makes them easier to spot than in daylight camouflage.
Comfort is key. We recommend closed-toe shoes and long pants. Even if it was 90°F during the day, bring a windbreaker or hoodie. The combination of no sun and the boat's speed makes it cooler than you expect.
Yes! Kids love the "treasure hunt" aspect of looking for glowing eyes with the spotlight. We generally recommend night tours for children aged 5 and up since it requires sitting still in the dark for 90 minutes.
You can try, but it's challenging. Flash often reflects off water or mist. The best way to capture the moment is to put the phone down and soak in the experience.
Because we only run one or two night tours per evening, spots fill up quickly, especially April through September. Book at least a week in advance.
Night tours are limited and are our most popular option during summer months. Don't miss your chance to see the wild side of Florida.
90-minute private tours | $65/person | 30 minutes from Orlando
Switchgrass Outfitters & Airboat Tours
28500 E Colonial Dr, Christmas, FL 32709
Family-owned and operated since 2009
