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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our airboat tours, ocean adventures, booking, safety, and policies — all in one place.

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General Questions

6 questions
What is All Out Water Excursions?

All Out Water Excursions is a Florida-based guided water adventure company offering two distinct experiences: airboat tours through Florida's freshwater wetlands (alligators, wildlife, backcountry), and ocean adventures on the Gulf Coast (shelling, dolphin tours, island hopping, sunset cruises, and snorkeling).

We operate across Central and Gulf Coast Florida with licensed local guides, small groups, and tours for every type of visitor — from families and couples to bachelor parties, corporate groups, and serious wildlife enthusiasts.

Where are you located?

We operate from 8 locations across Florida:

  • Airboat Rides: Lakeland, Orlando, Ocala, Rainbow River, Weeki Wachee
  • Ocean Adventures: Tampa, Tarpon Springs, St. Petersburg

Exact launch and meet-up addresses are provided after booking confirmation. Contact us if you need to confirm a specific location before booking.

Are your guides licensed and certified?

Yes. All guides are locally licensed and experienced. Airboat captains hold required Florida state certifications. For the Gator Hunting Tour, all guides are FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) licensed and all hunts are conducted in full compliance with Florida state law.

Our guides are local Floridians who know these waterways, seasonal patterns, and wildlife behavior in depth — not hired seasonal staff.

What is the minimum age requirement?

The minimum age for all tours is 5 years old. Children under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign the liability waiver. We supply life jackets in all sizes.

Some tours are better suited for families than others — island hopping, shelling, dolphin cruises, and the standard wildlife airboat tour are all great choices. If you're unsure, contact us and we'll help you pick the right fit.

The Gator Hunting Tour has a minimum age of 18 due to Florida FWC regulations.

Do I need experience to book a tour?

No experience is needed for any of our standard tours. All airboat tours and ocean excursions are guided and narrated — you're a passenger, not a crew member. Just show up, and your guide handles everything.

The Snorkeling & Scuba tour welcomes beginners for snorkeling with gear provided. Scuba diving portions require your own certification card and personal gear.

How do I contact you quickly?

The fastest way is to call or text 352-587-3422. For non-urgent questions, use the contact form and expect a reply within one business day (often much sooner).

💡 For last-minute bookings or same-day questions, always call or text — the form is best for advance planning.

Airboat Tours

8 questions
AirboatWhat airboat tours do you offer?

We offer 8 airboat tour packages:

  • Wildlife Tour — 1 hour, $60/person. Our most popular tour. Gators, birds, wetlands.
  • Sunset Photography Tour — 2 hours, $85/person. Timed to golden hour for photographers.
  • Alligator Tracking Expedition — 2 hours, $95/person. High-gator-activity waterways.
  • Island BBQ Adventure — 3–4 hours, $175/person. Airboat to a remote sandbar cookout.
  • Private Adventure Charter — 3–8 hours, $500–$1,500. Full vessel, custom route.
  • Gator Hunting Tour — 4–8 hours, $500–$1,500. Seasonal (Aug–Nov), FWC licensed.
  • Bachelor/Bachelorette Party — 2–4 hours, $600–$900 per group. Private vessel.
  • Honeymoon/Anniversary Escape — 2 hours, $300–$450. Private, sunset-timed, couples only.

See the full Airboat Tours page for complete details.

AirboatWill I actually see alligators?

Alligator sightings are very common on our tours — Florida has the largest alligator population in the US, and our guides know exactly where they feed, bask, and rest. That said, wildlife is wild and sightings are never 100% guaranteed.

For the best gator experience, book the Alligator Tracking Expedition (March–October is peak) or the Gator Hunting Tour during season. Standard Wildlife Tours also have frequent encounters.

AirboatHow loud is an airboat? Should I bring ear protection?

Airboats are significantly louder than regular boats — the fan and engine are powerful. We provide hearing protection (ear covers or foam plugs) for all passengers. You're welcome to bring your own if you prefer a specific type.

Children and those with hearing sensitivities should plan to use hearing protection throughout the ride. The noise is part of the experience but manageable with protection.

AirboatHow many people fit on an airboat?

Most of our standard tours accommodate 4–6 guests per vessel. The Island BBQ Adventure requires a minimum of 4 guests. Private Adventure Charters and Bachelor/Bachelorette packages book the full vessel for your group.

For groups larger than 6, contact us — we can often arrange multiple boats departing together. There's no better way for a big group to explore the backcountry.

AirboatWhich airboat location should I choose?

All five airboat locations (Lakeland, Orlando, Ocala, Rainbow River, Weeki Wachee) offer the same core tour packages at the same price. Choose based on proximity to where you're staying or what you want to see:

  • Lakeland / Orlando — Easiest access from Central Florida and theme park areas
  • Ocala — Rich wildlife diversity, high gator density, more remote feel
  • Rainbow River — Crystal-clear spring-fed water, stunning scenery
  • Weeki Wachee — Nature Coast wilderness, fewer tourists, excellent wildlife

Not sure? Ask us — we'll recommend the best fit for your group's goals.

SeasonalTell me more about the Gator Hunting Tour.

The Gator Hunting Tour is a licensed, FWC-regulated guided alligator harvest conducted during Florida's official gator season (August through November). All hunts are 100% legal and in full compliance with Florida state law.

Pricing is $500–$1,500 depending on duration (4–8 hours) and group size. All equipment is provided. Permit details and requirements are confirmed at the time of booking. Minimum age is 18.

📅 Season runs August through November only. Book early — spots fill quickly, especially on weekends.
AirboatWhat's the Island BBQ Adventure like?

The Island BBQ Adventure is one of our most unique experiences. Your guide airboats your group to a remote Florida sandbar that's only accessible by water — no roads, no crowds, no resort.

Once there, a real outdoor cookout is set up on-site while your group swims, explores, or just takes in the scenery. Dietary restrictions and accommodations can be arranged — just let us know at booking. Minimum group size is 4 guests. Advance booking is required. Price: $175/person.

AirboatCan I bring drinks or food on the airboat?

Yes — coolers and food are welcome on private charters and the Bachelor/Bachelorette package. No glass containers allowed on board for safety reasons. Cans and plastic are fine.

For standard shared tours, snacks are welcome but please keep it light. Water is always encouraged — Florida sun is real.

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Ocean Adventures

7 questions
OceanWhat ocean tours do you offer?

We offer 5 ocean tour types, all 4-hour guided excursions on the Gulf Coast:

  • Shelling Tour — Remote Gulf shell beaches. $150/person (1–4), $200/person (5–6).
  • Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise — Bottlenose dolphins, manatees, shorebirds. Same pricing as shelling.
  • Island Hopping — Multiple uninhabited Gulf island stops. Same pricing.
  • Sunset Cruise — Golden hour on the Gulf. Same pricing.
  • Snorkeling & Scuba — $250/person (1–4), $200/person (5–6). Gear provided for snorkelers.

All tours can be extended at $50/person per extra hour. Paddleboard add-on available at $30/person. See the Ocean Adventures page for details.

OceanWill we see dolphins on the wildlife cruise?

Bottlenose dolphin sightings are very common in Tampa Bay and the Gulf inshore — these are resident pods our guides know well. Sightings are not 100% guaranteed (they're wild animals), but rare to miss entirely.

We also regularly encounter manatees, sea turtles, ospreys, pelicans, and other Gulf Coast wildlife. The Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise is narrated throughout with educational context from your guide.

OceanDo I need to be a certified diver for the snorkeling/scuba tour?

No certification is required for the snorkeling portion. Snorkeling gear is provided and the guide will ensure you're comfortable before entering the water. The tour visits beginner-friendly sites as well as more advanced spots.

For the scuba diving portion, you must hold a valid scuba certification (PADI, NAUI, or equivalent) and bring your own certification card and personal gear. If you're not certified, snorkeling is always available and plenty of fun.

OceanWhat's the best shelling tour location?

All three ocean departure points (Tampa, Tarpon Springs, St. Petersburg) offer access to excellent shelling beaches. Tarpon Springs tends to have particularly remote and productive shell flats given its proximity to the open Gulf and nearby unpopulated islands.

Our guides know the seasonal conditions, tidal timing, and least-visited beaches — the spots tourists don't find on their own. Contact us to ask about current shell conditions before booking.

OceanCan I keep shells I find?

Yes — empty shells may be collected under Florida regulations. Florida law prohibits taking live shells or shells with living organisms inside them. Your guide will help you identify live vs. empty shells on the beach.

Bring a bag or small bucket for your collection. We'd also ask you to be thoughtful about quantity — take what's meaningful, leave plenty for others and the ecosystem.

OceanCan we swim during ocean tours?

Swimming is included and encouraged on the Island Hopping and Island BBQ Adventure tours. Snorkeling naturally involves being in the water.

For the Shelling, Dolphin, and Sunset tours, swimming opportunities depend on the conditions and stop locations on that day — ask your guide once on board.

OceanIs the paddleboard add-on for beginners?

Yes — the paddleboard add-on is used during calm, protected water stops (bays, sheltered island sides, sandbars) where conditions are suitable for all skill levels. Your guide will cover the basics before you get on board.

Price: $30/person. Can be added to any ocean tour at time of booking. Let us know at booking so we can bring the right equipment.

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Booking

5 questions
How do I book a tour?

You can book online through our Booking page, which is available 24/7. For private charters, group events, and custom tours, we recommend contacting us first to plan the right package before completing the booking.

For same-day availability or quick questions, call or text 352-587-3422.

How far in advance should I book?

For standard tours, booking a few days to a week ahead is usually sufficient. For peak season (spring break, summer, holidays) or weekend slots, 2–3 weeks in advance is recommended.

Private charters, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and the Gator Hunting Tour (seasonal) fill up the fastest — book those as early as possible. The Island BBQ Adventure also requires advance booking due to prep logistics.

Do I need to sign a waiver?

Yes. All participants must sign a liability waiver before boarding. You can sign the waiver online before your trip or complete it on the day of arrival.

For guests under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign on their behalf. We recommend completing the waiver in advance to speed up your departure process on the day of the tour.

Is a deposit required to hold my booking?

Deposit and payment details are confirmed during the booking process. For private charters and group events, a deposit is typically required to hold the date. Standard tour bookings follow the payment instructions provided at checkout.

If you have questions about payment for a specific booking, contact us directly.

Can I book for a large group?

Absolutely. For groups larger than 6, we can coordinate multiple boats departing together. Corporate outings, school groups, reunions, and large parties are all welcome.

For groups of 10+, we recommend contacting us directly to plan the right format. Private Adventure Charters and custom group packages are available year-round.

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Pricing

5 questions
What are your airboat tour prices?
  • Wildlife Tour — $60/person · 1 hour
  • Sunset Photography Tour — $85/person · 2 hours
  • Alligator Tracking Expedition — $95/person · 2 hours
  • Island BBQ Adventure — $175/person · 3–4 hours
  • Private Adventure Charter — $500–$1,500 · 3–8 hours
  • Gator Hunting Tour — $500–$1,500 · 4–8 hours (Aug–Nov)
  • Bachelor/Bachelorette Party — $600–$900 per group · 2–4 hours
  • Honeymoon/Anniversary Escape — $300–$450 private · 2 hours
What are your ocean adventure prices?

Ocean tours are 4-hour guided excursions. Pricing by group size:

  • Shelling, Dolphin & Wildlife, Island Hopping, Sunset Cruise — $150/person (1–4) · $200/person (5–6)
  • Snorkeling & Scuba — $250/person (1–4) · $200/person (5–6)
  • Extra hour add-on — $50/person
  • Paddleboard add-on — $30/person
Are there discounts for groups, children, or returning customers?

Ocean tours have a built-in group pricing structure — rates adjust based on group size (1–4 people vs. 5–6 people). For large groups or repeat customers, contact us directly to discuss options. We take care of people who come back.

What's included in the price?

All tours include: licensed guide/captain, life jackets, safety briefing, and the experience itself. Specific inclusions by tour:

  • Airboat tours — Ear protection provided
  • Snorkeling & Scuba — Snorkeling gear provided
  • Island BBQ Adventure — Cookout prepared on-site

Items not included: transportation to the launch point, gratuity for guides (appreciated but never required), personal items.

Is gratuity included?

Gratuity is never included and never required, but it's always appreciated by our guides. If you had a great experience, tipping is the best way to show it — our guides work hard to make every trip excellent.

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Cancellations & Weather

4 questions
What happens if it rains on my tour day?

Florida weather is unpredictable — a passing shower doesn't necessarily cancel a tour. We monitor conditions closely and make go/no-go decisions based on safety, not just comfort.

If we cancel due to weather, you receive a full refund or reschedule at no charge. We'll contact you as early as possible if your tour needs to be modified.

🌤️ In Florida, afternoon thunderstorms are common June–September. Morning departures often have the best conditions.
What is your cancellation policy for customer-initiated cancellations?

If you need to cancel, please contact us as early as possible. Specific refund windows and cancellation terms are provided at booking confirmation. In general:

  • Cancellations well in advance are handled with more flexibility
  • Last-minute cancellations (within 24 hours) may be subject to partial charges depending on the tour type
  • Private charters and group bookings may have different cancellation terms — these are confirmed at the time of booking

If something comes up, just call us — we're human and we work with our guests.

Can I reschedule instead of canceling?

Yes, rescheduling is always our preference when possible. Contact us as soon as you know your plans have changed and we'll do our best to find a new date that works for your group.

Are there tours year-round?

Yes — the vast majority of our tours run year-round. The only seasonal exception is the Gator Hunting Tour, which operates August through November per Florida FWC regulations. The Alligator Tracking Expedition is also best March–October when gator activity peaks, though it still runs year-round.

Winter in Florida is actually a fantastic time to tour — cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and less crowds. Wildlife is still abundant year-round.

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Safety

5 questions
Are airboats safe?

Yes. Airboats are purpose-built shallow-water vessels operated by experienced captains. All passengers receive life jackets and a safety briefing before departure. Our guides prioritize safety on every tour — wildlife encounters are observed from a respectful, safe distance.

Airboats are loud (hearing protection provided) and can feel fast, but the ride is stable and controlled. They're suitable for ages 5 and up with proper protection.

Are life jackets required?

Life jackets are provided and required on all tours for children. Adults are strongly encouraged to wear them at all times. All life jackets meet US Coast Guard requirements and are available in sizes for all ages including children.

Is it safe to be near alligators?

Our guides observe alligators from the boat at safe distances. We never approach, bait, or feed wildlife — this is both for your safety and for the animals. Your guide will explain alligator behavior throughout the tour so you understand what you're seeing.

If the tour involves any land stops near gator habitat (such as the BBQ Adventure), your guide will brief the group on safe behavior before you exit the boat.

Are there any physical requirements for tours?

Most tours have no significant physical requirements beyond the ability to board and disembark a vessel. If you have mobility concerns, health conditions, or other considerations, please let us know at booking and we will work with you.

Pregnant guests and those with serious neck/back conditions should consult their physician before booking an airboat tour, as the ride involves vibration and occasional sudden stops.

What about sun and heat safety?

Florida sun is intense year-round. We strongly recommend:

  • Reef-safe sunscreen applied before boarding
  • Hat and UV-protective sunglasses
  • Water — bring at least 1 liter per person
  • Light, long-sleeve UV shirts for extended tours

For summer tours, consider early-morning or late-afternoon departures to avoid peak heat hours (11am–3pm).

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What to Bring

3 questions
What should I bring on an airboat tour?
  • ✅ Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
  • ✅ Sunglasses and hat
  • ✅ Water (at least 1 liter/person)
  • ✅ Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps
  • ✅ Camera or phone for photos
  • ✅ Light layers in cooler months
  • ✅ Ear protection if you have a preference (we provide it)
  • ✅ Signed waiver (or plan to sign on arrival)

For the Island BBQ Adventure: bring a bag for any items you collect at the sandbar. For Bachelor/Bachelorette: canned/plastic drinks welcome (no glass).

What should I bring on an ocean tour?
  • ✅ Reef-safe sunscreen (required for snorkeling)
  • ✅ Swimsuit (under clothes for island/swimming tours)
  • ✅ Towel
  • ✅ Water shoes (recommended for island stops)
  • ✅ Sunglasses and hat
  • ✅ Water and snacks for longer tours
  • ✅ Camera (waterproof case recommended)
  • ✅ A bag for shells (shelling tour)

For the Snorkeling & Scuba tour: bring your scuba certification card and personal gear if diving. Snorkeling gear is provided.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes on private tours and charters. On shared tours, light snacks and water are welcome. No glass containers on any vessel. All food waste must leave with you or go in designated bins.

The Island BBQ Adventure includes a cookout — dietary accommodations can be arranged, just let us know in advance if you have specific needs.

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Kids & Families

4 questions
Which tours are best for families with young children?

The best family-friendly tours are:

  • Wildlife Tour (Airboat) — 1 hour, great intro for kids, gator spotting
  • Island Hopping (Ocean) — Swimming, beaches, exploring — kids love it
  • Shelling Tour (Ocean) — Kids are obsessed with finding shells
  • Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise (Ocean) — Universally popular with all ages

If your child is prone to motion sickness, flatter Gulf waters on calm days are easier than choppier conditions. Let us know at booking and we'll help you pick the right day and departure.

Are child-sized life jackets available?

Yes. Life jackets are available in all sizes including infant, child, and youth sizes. Let us know how many children and their approximate ages when booking so we have the right sizes ready.

My kids are scared of loud noise — is the airboat okay for them?

Airboats are loud, but hearing protection makes a huge difference. We provide ear covers and foam plugs for all ages. Most children do fine once they're protected and on the water.

If your child is particularly sensitive to loud sounds, you might consider an ocean adventure tour instead — boats on the Gulf are much quieter. Or contact us and we can talk through it before you book.

Do children count toward the group size minimum?

Yes — children 5 and up count as guests toward the group minimum (where applicable, such as the 4-person minimum on the Island BBQ Adventure). Contact us if you have a specific configuration and we'll confirm what works.

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Private Events & Groups

4 questions
Can I book a private charter for my event?

Yes — our Private Adventure Charter books the full vessel for your group with a fully customizable route and duration (3–8 hours, $500–$1,500). It's available for corporate outings, birthday celebrations, anniversary trips, family reunions, and more.

Contact us before booking so we can plan the right itinerary for your group's goals.

Do you host bachelor and bachelorette parties?

Absolutely. The Bachelor/Bachelorette Party Adventure is one of our most popular private bookings — full vessel, no strangers, coolers welcome (cans/plastic only, no glass), 2–4 hours in the Florida backcountry. Pricing: $600–$900 per group.

Weekend dates fill fast — book at least 2–3 weeks in advance. Both bachelor and bachelorette groups are welcome.

Do you do honeymoon and anniversary packages?

Yes — the Honeymoon/Anniversary Escape is a private 2-hour sunset airboat experience for couples only, with slower pacing and longer stops. Champagne add-on available. $300–$450 private.

Let us know it's a special occasion at booking and we'll make sure the experience reflects it.

Can you host corporate team-building events?

Yes. Corporate groups are a great fit for our Private Adventure Charter or multi-boat group outings. We've hosted team outings, client events, and company retreats. Contact us with your group size, preferred date, and goals and we'll put together a custom quote.

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Still Have Questions?

We're happy to answer anything before you book. Call, text, or send us a message — no pressure, no script, just real answers.