The River of Grass Raised Me: Life as an Everglades Airboat Captain and Conservationist
Most people come to the Everglades looking for adventure.
I grew up here learning responsibility.
Before it was a destination, it was home. Before it was content, it was survival.
The Everglades — known as the River of Grass — shaped who I am and defined my life’s work.
Growing Up in the Everglades
Growing up in South Florida’s Everglades isn’t typical — and that’s the point.
This ecosystem teaches respect fast. Water levels change, wildlife commands space, and nature never bends to convenience.
Watching the Everglades evolve over the years showed me how fragile and valuable it truly is.
That understanding led me to become not just an airboat captain, but a caretaker of the land.
Being an Airboat Captain Is a Responsibility
Anyone can drive an airboat. Understanding the ecosystem beneath it takes time, experience, and respect.
At Florida Tour Company, every Everglades airboat tour is built around conservation, education, and ethical operation on protected waters.
Responsible navigation through sensitive habitats
Education on native Everglades wildlife
Active involvement in invasive species management
Authentic storytelling from a local perspective
Invasive Species and Everglades Preservation
Invasive species such as Burmese pythons and invasive iguanas threaten native wildlife and disrupt the natural balance of the Everglades ecosystem.
This work doesn’t always make headlines — long days, heat, mud, and logistics — but it is essential to protecting the River of Grass for future generations.
Building Florida Tour Company With Purpose
Starting Florida Tour Company wasn’t about building just another tour business.
It was about creating something rooted in ethics, conservation, and education.
The road here wasn’t easy, but even on the hardest days, there’s nothing I’d trade this life for.
Why Private Everglades Airboat Tours Matter
Private Everglades airboat tours allow guests to experience this ecosystem the right way — without crowds, rushed routes, or scripted experiences.
Every tour is personal, immersive, and guided by someone who lives and works on this land every day.
This Is More Than a Tour
The Everglades doesn’t need more noise — it needs understanding.
Every tour we run supports conservation, education, and preservation.
This isn’t content.
This is caretaking.
This is home. 🌾🐊
