Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: All age groups are welcomed.
• Health limitations: For expectant mothers: We do not place restrictions for expectant mothers; the decision is left up to each individual. However, guests should take the following into consideration: the airboat will be traveling over the water for a minimum of 30 minutes and while typically a very smooth ride can be a bit bumpy in high wind conditions. Additionally for most of the year it is very warm outside so heat and hydration need to be considered. Therefore, we do ask that you consult a doctor prior to your visit. Please ensure that you explain the nature of the attraction and activities you plan to enjoy to receive a proper assessment.
• Physical limitations: To participate in the boat tour, passengers must be able to take a step down into the boat or have a family member help them.

Who can you accommodate for?

• Children: All participants must pay to participate, children included. We advise parents that our boats are very noisy and we provide ear plugs for everyone riding. All children aged six and under must wear a life jacket which we provide. Guests over the age of six may also obtain and wear a life jacket if they wish. It is a safe and smooth enjoyable ride.
• Pets: Pets are allowed on park grounds only under the full control of their owners on a leash. Working service animals are permitted, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act but discouraged from partaking in the boat ride as it can be rather stressful for animals.
• Individuals with disabilities: We have limited accessibility for guests who are handicapped. If you are able to comfortably take a step down into our boats or have a family member help you into the boat, you will be able to enjoy a boat ride. If you are apprehensive about having to get into the boat comfortably, you can still enjoy our animal exhibits for a discounted cost. Sawgrass Recreation Park welcomes service animals at the park under the care and responsibility/liability of the owner.
• Languages: We have transcripts of our captains’ general speeches in several languages. Request one in the gift shop to share with your foreign guests.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: 1 hour
• What’s included: Exhibits entrances, ear protection, and onsite complimentary parking
• Who will be present: This is a private guided tour, by a highly trained, experienced captain. You will be on a boat that can fit up to 15 passengers.
• Spectators: No spectators are allowed, everyone must have a ticket/reservations
• Photo/ video: • Be sure to bring your camera, so you can capture the excitement of meeting a baby alligator
• Specific rules to follow:
  • Communicate with respect. Harassment, obscenity, hate speech, racism, offensive gestures, or otherwise abusive treatment of any other guest, staff member, or volunteer will not be tolerated.
  • Respect the animals and grounds. Respect all fences and barriers. Do not enter animal habitats, climb fences, feed animals, or toss items into habitats or gardens.
  • Trust our expertise. Human behavior in general can affect animal welfare. If a staff member or volunteer asks you to comply with a policy, please do. It’s in the interest of the animals in our care.
  • Follow local and federal laws. This includes applicable public health guidelines, especially those pertinent to the potential transmission of zoonotic disease (bacteria and viruses that can travel between humans and animals).
  • Any guest found in violation of the above code of conduct will be asked to change their behavior. If the behavior continues, the guest may be asked to leave park grounds. Sawgrass Recreation Park reserves the right to involve law enforcement, change membership status, or take other steps as needed.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: Tours are weather dependent. In the event a named tropical storm or hurricane approaches South Florida if necessary staff will contact guests to reschedule any park adventures booked. The park will not apply any cancellation or change fees for this service.
• Arrival: Plan to arrive 30 minutes in advance of your departure time
• Parking: There is no charge for parking and there is plenty of parking space available
• What to wear: Clothing comfortable for weather conditions.
• What to bring:
  • Camera
  • Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drink to the park. There is a gourmet food truck on site from 10am-4pm.