Tom and Jerry's Airboat Tours — Attraction in Wildwood

Just worked up enough courage to write this review and will be making a police report. My family and I were there last week. As returning customers we were excited to bring our kids back as the last time we were there they were so little. My ELEVEN year old daughter and I were sat next to the captain and co-captain up top as we had a full boat. When the captain of the tour crossed over my ELEVEN year old daughter to get to his seat he made a nasty remark saying if he fell on her while crossing over to "just enjoy it for a little." He sat in his seat and the co-captain sat next to me (captain, co-captain, me, then my daughter) we took off on our trip. The co-captain sat very wide legged and was definitely encroaching on my space/bubble he just said "sorry about that" and kept his knee touching mine. I thought it was weird but I just figured he needed that much space. Shortly into the ride I had asked him if the captain was going to take us to a memorable spot from the last time we were there and he said "each captain does their own thing but I know what spot you are talking about. Was I your captain last time?" I said "I'm not sure" he then looked down at my wedding ring and said "I'm your personal tour guide now, I see your married but it don't matter" I felt very uncomfortable and scooted even closer to my daughter and looked the other way. Soon I could feel his hand touching my knee. When I looked at him he pulled away quickly like it was an accident. I shrugged it off and we continued on. That happened a couple more times... I just shut down. I couldn't even concentrate on the tour everything was just a blur. Suddenly he reached his arm around me and rested it behind me. A few minutes after that he caressed my ELEVEN year old daughters sholder. My daughter does not look 11 but she also does NOT look 18. I was furious and so disgusted at this point. I threw my body weight towards my daughter then faced him. He again adjusted like it was just an accident. I grabbed my phone and tapped my husband and other kids who were sitting in front of me to take a picture and get my husbands attention. The co-captain said "is that your husband and kids right there?" I said "it sure is, and SHE is also my daughter" (pointing at my 11 year old) he said " thats your daughter?!" I just nodded. I was praying to God that the ride would end soon. All of a sudden the boat broke down. We were stranded in the middle of the lake and with the fan being behind us where they needed to work I quickly told my daughter to climb in the seat in front of us with her dad and siblings. I just wanted her to get away from him so bad. There wasn't enough room for me in that seat as we were there with other family as well so the captains had me sit in the captain seat so they could reach the fan and hoses better. My family (whom didn't know what had taken place the whole ride) joked that I was the new captain and started video recording me. The co-captain looked at my husband and said "she may be your wife but she's my captain now" then he grabbed my hand and put it on the shifter. I was visibly uncomfortable and kept trying to pull my hand away as I just stared in the other direction. This was all caught on camera and I will be submitting to the police. They got the boat to start and run just enough to make it back to the dock. I couldn't get off that thing fast enough. While everyone I was with really wanted to take a picture with the alligator at the end I was very agitated and wanted to leave so bad. I quickly snapped a pic of my kids and grabbed them to leave. We left in such a hurry the rest of my family didn't even know where we went. I called them and told them to meet us at the gas station. When they got there I was so upset and told them everything. I have not and will not be able to forget about this experience. In some ways I feel like a terrible mother since I didn't tell them to take us back. I just couldn't. I froze. Please reconsider if you are thinking about visiting this place. Especially if you have...

We paid a visit to Tom & Jerry's Airboat Rides not sure what to expect less than a week after Hurricane Milton passed over Florida. The new owner was busy outside with his crew, helping with the cleanup efforts, directing contractors with improvements and driving into town for parts to expedite repairs. New signage was everywhere, a new concrete pool was installed (to be used for the gators) and a new pavilion was under construction. In spite of the messiness, it was very evident that every effort was being made to make the area safe and presentable for their patrons and it was business as usual. We arrived in time to see a boat come in with several passengers. Everyone looked to have enjoyed the tour. The two of us stepped on board with a family of three, escorted by Captain Joe. After a brief introduction, off we went. The beauty of the area cannot be adequately described; one must be there to see it for themselves. The goal of the ride is to point out the native wildlife, and it was obvious that Captain Joe was piloting to areas where he knew that the gators would be. The ride took an hour, and even it you don't see gators or turtles or snakes or birds you will be able to go to "Gator Alley" when the ride was finished. There you will see live gators. We have no doubt in our minds that we will be going back again. Can't wait to see what improvements are in store when we do!

Update: Feb 3rd, 2025

Our second visit to the location, and it is evident that the new ownership is dedicated to raising the bar. A fresh new look first greets you with fresh paint, and new signage. It’s just not possible to leave without taking a selfie in front of the entrance sign. The previously mentioned concrete gator pool now has gators in it and is surrounded with two layers of chain link fencing. A brand new dock has been installed with a covered waiting area. While we were waiting, a tour was ending and it was a bit fascinating to watch the captain skillfully maneuver his boat into position at the dock to unload another group of happy, smiling faces. It was obvious that the tour was a success. There are a few activities available to pass the time waiting for your tour. There are misting fans to keep you cooler during the warmer days. After checking in, a golf cart waits to bring you to the dock, making it easier for those who have difficulty walking. It is clear that every effort is being made to bring excellence to your visit. We were told that arrangements are being made to make Tom and Jerry’s an educational destination for schools, and this is a perfect venue for catered corporate events, parties, and family picnics or reunions. Be on the lookout for the attention grabbing custom wrapped Jeep on...

What an unforgettable experience at Tim and Jerry’s Airboat Rides! From start to finish, everything was absolutely perfect. The moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and a well-organized setup. The boat was spotless, and the staff made sure we were comfortable and ready for the adventure ahead1.

Captain Chad was the highlight of the tour. His knowledge of the area and wildlife was incredible, and he shared fascinating stories that kept us engaged throughout the ride. His sense of humor added a fun twist, making the experience even more enjoyable8]. We zipped through the cypress trees and natural springs, with Chad expertly navigating the airboat, giving us both thrilling moments and serene views of the stunning landscape[7].

We saw an abundance of wildlife, including several alligators, turtles, and a variety of birds. Chad made sure we got up close to the gators, and his passion for the environment was evident in every explanation he gave. The ride itself was exhilarating—speeding through the water and gliding over the marsh was an absolute blast[1.

The facilities were top-notch, with clean restrooms and a picnic area where we relaxed after the tour. The entire experience was family-friendly, and even the kids in our group were thrilled[1].

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines excitement, education, and breathtaking scenery, Tim and Jerry’s Airboat Rides with Captain Chad is a must-do. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the area. Five stars all...