We went on the two hour tour with Capt Randy and my family had an amazing time. I was a little concerned with the diverse age group - from 13 year old nephew, parents and sister with her husband. Would the ride keep their attention and not be too crazy? Capt Randy put everyone at ease right away. The ride was a great balance of some high speed fun and plenty of time learning about the glades. Capt Randy truly knows the area and has a lot of respect for the history and future of this unbelievable river. My nephew was thrilled to steer the airboat through the cattails. He found plenty of gators for us to view - without feeling like we were intruding on them. The cost was more expensive than the "high volume people" tours; but the difference was obvious when we flew by the busy loading area with the bigger, bulkier boats. We'll be talking about this trip for awhile.

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.