Florida-native brothers Gil and David Castillo have spent more than 35 years sharing the magic of their home state’s wildlife. Today, they invite you onto nimble, private airboats for four-hour adventures that glide far beyond typ...
Travelers consistently rave about the private airboat charters here, especially the expertise of captains like Dave and Gil who lead most tours. These aren't your typical tourist rides crammed with people. Instead, you're getting personalized, four-hour excursions through the Withlacoochee River area where guides genuinely tailor the experience to what you want to see. The wildlife spotting is impressive – expect to see dozens (even hundreds) of alligators along with diverse bird species, turtles, and fish. Captains are praised for their deep knowledge of the ecosystem and for taking time to find the best viewing spots and photo opportunities. What makes this stand out is the blend of thrills and tranquility. You'll navigate through narrow trails and open waters, but there are also peaceful stops where you can soak in nature's quiet. Several families mention a picnic break at a remote orange grove that adds something special to the adventure. The guides come across as patient, fun, and genuinely invested in making sure everyone has a memorable time. One minor note: someone with mobility concerns mentioned that stepping in and out of the airboat was challenging, though this didn't dampen their enthusiasm for the experience overall.
We had the best time today with captain Dave! We saw no lie a couple HUNDRED alligators! 🐊 Easy to book, very insightful about the river + everything around. I wouldn’t book anywhere else!
Kristina Carey
June 23, 2025
We had the best time today with captain Dave! We saw no lie a couple HUNDRED alligators! 🐊 Easy to book, very insightful about the river + everything around. I wouldn’t book anywhere else!
Kristina Carey
June 23, 2025