The St. Johns River is the spine of the corridor; the ROLHC derives its name from the River. But there is not a road that winds along the river’s edge, so travelers have to get out on the river to really appreciate why it is designated as one of only fourteen American Heritage Rivers.
One of the best ways to experience the St. Johns River is to take a boat tour. From bird watching, to alligators, manatees, and otters, this is the way to get up close and personal with life on the River.
The Rivership Barbara Lee is an authentic, sternwheel paddleboat that leaves regularly from its homeport on Lake Monroe on Sanford’s waterfront. The double-decker paddleboat cruises Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River with the luxury of comfortable seating and a full-kitchen and restaurant. With a variety of types of tours (some at sunset, some with bands, and dances) the Barbara-Lee offers a unique way to experience the river.
St. Johns Rivership Co.
433 N. Palmetto Avenue, Sanford, FL 32771
(888) 235-1266 | (321) 441-3030
This tour leaves regularly from the Highbanks Marina in Debary. This is the most eco-friendly sightseeing boat cruise on the St. John’s River. This eco tour is on the curriculum for Rollins College, Winter Park. Narrated by Jeannie Bell and it’s a great way to see the southern and central part of the river. Call the owners, Doug Little or Jeannie Bell at (800) 979-3370 to book a tour.
St. Johns River Eco Tours
488 W. Highbanks Road, DeBary, Florida, 32713
(386) 626-9004
Blue Heron River Tours is the only daily cruise on both the St. Johns River and the Hontoon Dead River. Offering daily eco-nature tours, photographic expeditions, educational labs, sunset cruises, and seasonal cruises. This tour operates out of Hontoon Landing Resort and Marina, DeLand, right across the river from Hontoon Island State Park.
Blue Heron River Tours
2317 River Ridge Road, DeLand, FL 32720
(386) 873-4843
This tour leaves from inside Blue Spring State Park. It is a two-hour narrated nature and ecological cruise on the beautiful and historic St. Johns River. See the Real Florida..naturally.
St. Johns River Cruises
2100 West French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
(386) 917-0724
For the more adventurous, Captain Joshua is an alligator-hunting guide who knows where to find alligators. Expect to see plenty of wildlife such as wild hogs, deer, and many species of birds. Captain Joshua also offers bow-fishing charters. Bow fishing is a fun and exciting sport for all ages! The non-stop, year-round action and fast pace make for a fun and exciting charter. Launching from DeLeon Springs.
Airboat & Gator Charters
Lake Woodruff Area, De Leon Springs, FL 32130
(386) 747-0631
This 50-minute eco/history boat tour runs out of De Leon Springs State Park. It cruises from Deleon Springs along the Spring Garden Run. Travelers learn about the area’s rich history. Call Captain Frank for more information.
Fountain of Youth Eco/History Tours
2990 W. State Road 44, DeLand, FL 32720
(386) 736-5953
The 156-mile River of Lakes Heritage Corridor is a Scenic Highway which unfolds along the magnificent and historical St. John’s River in Central Florida.
© 2023 River of Lakes Heritage Corridor.
