Mt. Dora Canal Boat Tours with Lunch

Introduction: Exploring a Central Florida Gem

If you’re seeking a laid-back, picture-perfect escape in central Florida, the Mt. Dora Canal Boat Tour with Lunch offers a blend of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and small-town charm. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, we’ve gathered detailed insights to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your travel plans.

What stands out immediately are the breathtaking vistas of the Dora Canal—often called “The Most Beautiful Mile of waterway in the world”—and the chance to combine natural beauty with a visit to the adorable town of Mount Dora. Plus, the relaxed pace makes it ideal for those wanting to experience Florida’s authentic side without the crowds.

A potential consideration is the price point of $110 per person, which includes a boat ride and lunch but not alcoholic beverages. For travelers on a budget, bringing your own drinks might be a good idea. This tour is best suited for nature enthusiasts, history buffs interested in Florida’s past, and anyone eager for a peaceful, scenic outing combined with some light shopping and local eats.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The Dora Canal offers some of the most picturesque views in central Florida, lined with moss-draped cypress trees and abundant wildlife.
• Historical significance: The canal was once a crucial transportation route for steamboats, enriching the experience with a bit of local history.
• Flexible itinerary: You’ll enjoy a calm boat ride, a walk into Mount Dora, and a variety of lunch options.
• Value for money: With a 5-hour duration, the tour balances scenic beauty, local culture, and a meal at a competitive price.
• Comfort and accessibility: The private tour format ensures a relaxed, personalized experience, with service animals allowed and easy access via public transportation.
• Weather-dependent: Good weather is essential for the best experience; cancellations due to poor weather come with full refunds or rescheduling.

Discovering the Charm of the Dora Canal and Mount Dora

The Mt. Dora Canal Boat Tour with Lunch offers a chance to explore one of Florida’s most beloved waterways. This tour’s core appeal is undoubtedly the scenery—a lush waterway where towering cypress trees are draped in Spanish moss, evoking classic Southern imagery. We love the way the guide narrates these natural scenes, adding context about the canal’s historical role as a steamboat route in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Travelers can expect a roughly five-hour experience starting at Hickory Point Recreation Park in Tavares. The boat journey takes you along Lake Harris, into Lake Dora, and through the canal, where you’ll likely feel like you’ve stepped into a living postcard. Several reviewers have noted the “absolutely gorgeous scenery” and the “abundance of Florida wildlife,” making it perfect for photographers or anyone wanting a peaceful nature fix.

The boat ride itself is a highlight, with shaded waters that keep the temperature comfortable and offer plenty of photo opportunities. We especially appreciate that the tour is private—meaning your group won’t be crowded with strangers—and that service animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with specific needs.

Detailed Tour Breakdown

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure begins early at 9:00 am at Hickory Point Recreation Park. This timing allows you to enjoy the morning light, when the water and trees look especially vibrant. The tour concludes back at the starting point, giving you the flexibility to continue exploring the area afterward.

The Boat Ride: Nature and Nostalgia

Traveling through Lake Harris into Lake Dora via the Dora Canal is where the magic happens. We loved the way the guide emphasizes the natural beauty—the way Spanish moss hangs from the cypress trees, creating a moody, enchanted atmosphere. The waterway’s calmness makes for a relaxing cruise, with plenty of wildlife to spot—birds, turtles, and maybe even a gentle heron or egret.

Mount Dora Stop: A Little Bit of Key West in Florida

After the boat ride, you’ll dock and step into Mount Dora, a town famous for its boutique shops, quaint cafes, and welcoming vibe. Here, you can browse craft stores, pick up souvenirs, or simply relax over lunch. The tour includes the option of lunch at local restaurants, or you’re welcome to bring your own snacks. With plenty of choices, the town feels like a mini-vacation within your day.

Lunch Options and Flexibility

While lunch isn’t included in the ticket price, the variety of restaurants in Mount Dora means you’ll find something to suit your taste and budget. The tour also provides bottled water, so staying hydrated is easy. If you prefer to pack a picnic or some snacks, that’s perfectly fine too—just remember, no alcohol is included, but you’re welcome to bring your own beverages.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At $110 per person, this experience offers a well-rounded package of scenic beauty, history, and local culture. The 5-hour length gives you enough time to enjoy the boat trip, have a leisurely walk around Mount Dora, and eat without feeling rushed.

Compared to other Florida water excursions like airboat rides or safari drives, this tour tends to be more relaxed and intimate. That makes it especially appealing to travelers seeking a peaceful, nature-focused outing rather than adrenaline or large crowds.

The private group aspect means the experience can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s wildlife photography, history, or simply unwinding in nature. Plus, the excellent reviews, though currently without a star rating, consistently praise the stunning scenery and the chance to enjoy Florida’s “Old Florida” charm firsthand.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

The Mt. Dora Canal Boat Tour with Lunch is ideal for those looking for a gentle, scenic experience—perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting to escape the hustle and bustle. It’s especially suitable for nature lovers and history buffs who appreciate a story as much as a view.

If you’re passionate about wildlife, tranquil waters, and charming towns, you’ll find this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s a smart choice if you want a relaxing half-day adventure with plenty of photo ops and a taste of local Florida culture.

However, if you’re seeking high-energy activities or don’t enjoy water, this might not be your top pick. The tour’s success hinges on good weather, so check the forecast before booking.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a boat trip on Lake Harris and Lake Dora, a walk into Mount Dora, bottled water, and the option to purchase lunch at local restaurants.

How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately five hours, from start to finish, including the boat ride and time in Mount Dora.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Hickory Point Recreation Park at 27341 FL-19, Tavares, FL.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate.

Can I bring my own snacks or drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snacks, lunch, or beverages—remember, alcohol is not included but can be BYOB.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection, camera, and any personal snacks or drinks.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but check the weather and your group’s mobility.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot through the provider’s website or booking platform, with confirmation provided immediately upon booking.

The Sum Up

The Mt. Dora Canal Boat Tour with Lunch offers a peaceful, scenic way to experience some of Florida’s most beautiful waterways and charming small-town atmosphere. It’s a smart choice for travelers who value natural beauty, historical context, and relaxed exploration. Whether you’re looking to escape for a half-day, enjoy wildlife photography, or simply savor the tranquility of Florida’s “Old Florida,” this tour delivers.

For those who prize stunning views, a touch of local history, and the quiet pleasure of a boat ride, this experience is likely to surprise and delight. It’s particularly suited for those seeking a gentle adventure that combines scenery, culture, and comfort—all at a reasonable price.

Remember: Good weather makes all the difference, so check your forecast, plan ahead, and prepare to soak in the sights and sounds of central Florida’s most picturesque waterway.