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Activity #1380 |
Lake Worth Lagoon and Peanut Island Boat Tours |
What type of boat is the Florida Queen?
This is a 27' Navy Whale Boat powered by a Caterpillar inboard diesel engine. (This means the engine is inside the boat and not just hanging off the back!)
What time do tours go out?
Tour times are Thursday through Sunday at 11am and 1pm
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Advance purchase is highly recommended, and trips often sell out quickly. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance.
What happens if it rains?
Tours usually run in light rain and other moderate weather conditions. The vehicle is covered but its windows are always open so dress appropriately for the day's weather. Rain in this area usually passes through fast and sometimes it can be raining in one place and sunny here! So if the forecast calls for rain, it probably won't affect the tour. In the rare event that a tour is canceled due to weather, we will allow you to reschedule your tour subject to availability, or receive credit for a future event.
What exact places will we see on the tour?
We will see a number of places along the Intracoastal Waterway. They will include spectacular mansions, the Port of Palm Beach, and a manatee viewing area. Once at Peanut Island, they will include the USCG Station, Ready Boat House and JFK Bomb Shelter. Both the sea and land portions of the tour will be guided!
What is a USCG ready boat house?
A US Coast Guard ready boat house is where the Coast Guard kept boats ready to be launched out into the water. There used to be rails in the house which would secure the boats before they were shot out into the water. Though the rails have now been covered by wood, there is still about a 10 degree slope to the house floor. Also, the house is an amazing building in itself, with a cathedral-like roof.
Do I need to buy tickets for children or babies?
Yes, due to Coast Guard regulations, all participants must purchase a ticket, regardless of age. There are reduced ticket prices for children between the ages of 4 and 12. For children ages 3 or younger, please be sure to select the correct number of Free Child extras when you purchase your tickets. Please keep in mind that only 5 children ages three or under can be accommodated on a given trip, so if there are not enough Extras are available you'll need to select a different day/time.
Is there an age limit on this tour?
There is no age limit for the tour. The boat is a safe and fun vessel for the whole family! Please keep in mind that children ages 3 and under may come for free, but you must indicate the correct number of Free Child extras when you purchase your tickets and these children MUST sit on your lap for the duration of the boat ride. If your child would like his or her own seat, please purchase a Child (Between ages 4 and 12) ticket for them.
Will I get wet?
No, you will not get wet on the tour just because you are out on the water. But, if there is some rain we recommend bringing a poncho.
Can I bring food or drinks with me on the tour?
Water is available for purchase on board for $1 each. Snacks and light meals are available at the Peanut Island Boat House Grill, so please bring extra cash if you'd like to purchase anything while on tour.
Will I be able to buy food, drinks, or souvenirs along the way?
Yes! There is a grill and gift shop at Peanut Island Maritime Museum.
Can I go on this tour if I am pregnant?
We ask that you use your discretion if you're in the later portion of your pregnancy, as the Intracoastal Waterway can be choppy at times. Also, keep in mind that a moderate amount of walking and climbing is required during the tour.
How long does the cruise portion last? What about the land tour at Peanut Island?
The tour will last about 40 minutes on water and you will have 75 minutes to spend at Peanut Island. Total tour time is planned to be around 2 hours, but this is always dependent on current and wind conditions. Both portions of your tour will be guided!
Is there assigned seating on the tour?
No, every seat is excellent!
Are there any stops on the tour?
Yes! You will spend about 40 minutes aboard the Florida Queen, but the remaining approximately 75 minutes of the tour will take place at the Maritime Museum on Peanut Island. While on the boat we usually travel at a casual speed, so you'll be able to take plenty of photos!
Is there a bathroom on the vehicle?
There are no facilities on board the vessel. However, there will be restrooms at the meeting location as well as at the Maritime Museum on Peanut Island.
What is a whale boat?
A whale boat is a narrow boat designed for quick turning and use in rough seas. Formerly dedicated to the pursuit and harpooning of whales, they are now mainly used for sea rescue or pleasure.
What should I wear?
Please dress appropriately for the day's weather conditions. The vessel has a covered top, but we recommend you wear sunscreen to protect against the sun or a poncho in the event of a drizzle. The temperature is also a few degrees lower on the water, so we recommend you bring layers in the cooler months.
Where does the tour finish?
The tour will finish at the same dock from which it departs. Exact meeting location information and details on how to get there will be provided upon purchase.
Can I bring luggage and strollers on the tour?
We have a limited amount of space available aboard the Florida Queen, so please be considerate of your fellow passengers as this space is confined. Strollers, car seats and excess baggage can be left at the meeting location and retrieved after the tour.
How steady is the vehicle? Will I get seasick?
The Florida Queen is normally a steady and gentle vessel, so it is very rare for our guests to become seasick. While most people do not experience any sea sickness, you may want to consider light medication if you normally take it for motion sickness. We cannot officially advise you to take any medication, however.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes, there is free parking available on the street right by the meeting location, for which you will receive specific details once you purchase!
Is the Florida Queen safe?
Yes, the vessel is approved by the US Coast Guard and inspected annually. A U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Master Captain must operate the vessel. There are life preservers and fire extinguishers on board as required by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Is the Florida Queen safe for small children?
Yes, this is a very popular tour for families! The Florida Queen has cushioned seats and passengers can sit comfortably close to one another. Small children, infants and toddlers, can be held on your lap.
Is this tour suitable for guests with back problems?
The tour can be pretty bumpy, given wind and current conditions, so we ask that participants be in stable physical condition or advise with a doctor beforehand.
Is the tour handicapped accessible?
No. Passengers need to be able to climb aboard the vessel by use of stairs and hand rails. Therefore, all participants must be able to bear weight on their legs and have good balance. Additionally, there is no room to store wheelchairs or walkers on board and guests would likely need these items for the walking part of the tour on Peanut Island.
Do I get a discount if I book a big group?
Yes! If you purchase 10 or more tickets for a tour, you will automatically receive a discount of $5 off per ticket.
Are gift certificates available for the tour?
Yes! Gift certificates for the Peanut Island Boat Tours are great for any occasion. To purchase a gift certificate, click on the "Contact this seller" link.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes, we have a variety of charter offerings, including special rates for school groups, and camp tours! Click on the "Contact this seller" link for more information.
