Airboat FAQ

What should we wear?

You will not get soaking wet or dirty on the tour. Dress for the weather. Our boats are open topped and the speed of the airboat makes it windy. On chilly days, the wind can make it feel colder than it is. On warm days, the sun can make it feel even warmer. Sunscreen is advised. We occasionally go out in light rain. Feel free to bring a poncho.

What happens if it rains? 

Our captains make the ultimate decision on whether the tour will be cancelled due to weather. We will often go out in light rain but rarely in heavy rain and never when there's lightning. If the tour is cancelled by our captains, we will work to reschedule you.

How long is the tour?

The tour itself on the boat is approximately 90 to 105 minutes. If you choose our hotel pick up transportation option, round trip is a little under 4 hours. 

Is the price listed per guest?

Yes. The prices listed above are per person on the boat. 

Can we book a private tour?

Absolutely. To book a private tour, you essentially buy all the seats on the boat. We have boats of a variety of different sizes from 6 to 30 passengers. We will try to match you with the smallest boat available that will accommodate your group. Contact us for a quote or more information 

Where do you pick up?

We can pick you up at most hotels in the French Quarter and Central Business District. If you are not staying at a hotel, we can figure out which hotel would be closest and arrange to meet you there. Contact us for details.

When is the best time of day to see alligators?

In the summer, our 9:45 a.m. tour time is best, before the gators retreat for the shade. In the winter, 12 p.m. may be a little better as the gators like to catch a little sun while it’s cold out. That said, our captains are in the bayou every day and know where alligators like to hang. We aren’t a zoo and we can’t guarantee you’ll see any specific wildlife, but you always have a good chance.

Is it true that airboats are too loud and they scare away the wildlife?

Not true at all. Though these boats are quite loud at their top speeds (we provide hearing protection for you), when the boat nears an alligator or another animal we want to observe, your captain will cut the engines and you'll quietly glide over to the creature, no harm done. In fact, because airboats are so small and nimble, they can get to many shallow or cramped areas that other (larger, quieter) boats couldn't dream of going into. 

Will I get seasick?

No promises, but we don't have many guests complain of seasickness after the tour. Airboats are pretty smooth rides and the water is fairly calm as compared to being on a cruise in the ocean. The boats are fast though, so if you are prone to motion sickness in cars, maybe take some Dramamine as a precaution.

How far in advance should I book?

Our airboat tours are the most popular tours we sell with the least number of available seats, so they sell out the quickest. We recommend you book as far in advance as you can to guarantee availability. We take bookings up to a year in advance. Realistically though, you don't need to plan quite that far ahead. The larger your group, the earlier you should book. Most of our guests book anywhere from two months to a week ahead.  That said, thanks to cancellations, we are often able to squeeze you in on the day of the tour. Please contact us to double check.

Do we need bug spray?

Probably not, as the bugs aren't too bad in the daytime. Still, it can't hurt. Feel free to bring your own, but please apply it before stepping on board. 

What's the difference between an airboat and a fanboat?

There isn't one. Same kind of boat. Some folks call it a fanboat. We happen to call it an airboat. 

Will we see crocodiles?

No. The American Alligator is what you'll find on our swamp tours, while the American Crocodile can be found most commonly in the tropical regions around Caribbean Sea, Central America and South America. The easiest way to distinguish between the two is by looking at the nose: a croc's nose is narrow compared to the broad nose of a gator.  

What is your refund policy?

Tours are non-refundable, but we can reschedule free of charge with advance notice.