Checked out several tours online and settled on Ride the Wind as they made it easy to have a private tour and it is much longer than most the others. We were in the boat riding around for 2 hrs and enjoyed every minute. Had a tour set up for 8/6 at 11:30 am and our captain (Dave) was early and getting ready for us when we arrived. As others have said, Dave was a blast, had a good sense of humor and was great with the kids and adults.

You get to steer the boat (has dual controls) and my teenage son really enjoyed that! Capt. Dave really balanced just letting us enjoy the view and explaining things very well. Saw seveal alligators (and babys), and plenty of birds and other critters.

Was a bit worried as there are a couple reviews on trip advisor saying that Ride the Wind did not show up but this was not a problem in our case and based on our experience I highly recommend this tour.

We hooked up with Captain Dave for a private two-hour tour that launched from Weston, FL. Captain Dave showed great enthusiasm, good humor, and a real commitment to please. Although safety was paramount, Captain Dave didn't lay down a bunch of inane rules. That was refreshing.

Our morning trip was absolutely beautiful. The ride was smooth and the sound of the boat engine actually enhanced the experience. (Captain Dave provided ear muffs for all of us.) We traveled at speeds that gave us a sense of the power, comfort, maneuverability and stability of the boat. At the same time, our speed was such that we could actually survey the area in hopes of spotting a few critters . . . and we did! Alligators, five of them. One turtle and a bunch of cool birds.

Two other important points: First, Captain Dave took the time to explain to us what we were seeing. He took the time to let us absorb the experience. Cappy didn't watch the clock, and we actually ran over. It was great. Here's the other thing: Captain Dave let each of us drive the boat! It's a dual control vessel, so safety wasn't an issue. Captain Dave controlled the speed and we all got to steer through the Everglades. It was an experience we'll never forget.

I don't work for this outfit. I'm just an old retired California cop vacationing with the family. That said, I'll tell you that our time with Captain Dave on the Everglades was worth every penny we spent. When we return to Florida, we're going again, with "Ride the Wind." Do your homework. Compare reviews and make up your own mind. This was my first experience in the Everglades and with an airboat. I just don't know how it could've been any better.

Jan 2006, Jan 2009 and Jan 2012 have all been experiences we will never forget! This charter is not cheap. However you are getting a private charter and the value of the experience far out weighs the cost! Captain Randy accually lets you drive the boat. Highly recommended.

Booked tour for July 17th. I was told to meet at the launch ramp at 11:30. We arrived at 10:30 at a desolate ramp. I confirmed from another Captain that we were at the right ramp. Called Captain Randy approximately 5 times, informing him we were early, where was he, and finally at noon that I had given up on waiting. He did not have the common courtesy to call and apolgize. Never again, and I wouldn't wish his services to anyone.