Rusty Anchor Mount Dora Boat Tours
Rusty Anchor Mount Dora Boat Tours
Rusty Anchor Mount Dora Boat Tours
5
Boat ToursEco ToursSightseeing ToursPrivate ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
9:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
9:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
9:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
9:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
9:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
9:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
9:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
9:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
Rusty Anchor Boat Tours has over 30 years experience wowing passengers. Come join us for a 2 hour Eco tour of Lake Dora and the Dora Canal. Relax and enjoy the most beautiful mile of waterway and Florida’s flora and fauna like never before. Our Captains are US Coast Guard certified and many are natives of the South. We have a tour for every age and free bottled water is available on our boats. Our 1 hour Sunset Cruise goes out each day and the 2 hour Dora Canal cruises leave at 10am, 12:30 and 3pm from Mount Dora’s City Dock right next to the Yacht Club. Easy to get to, Rusty Anchor is less than an hour from Daytona, The Villages and Orlando. We also offer Private Party tours and have excellent Group Rates. Please call or go online to make your reservation and remember to be at the dock 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time, we don’t want you to miss the boat!
Mount Dora, Florida
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Rusty Anchor Mount Dora Boat Tours
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
676 reviews
Excellent
584
Very good
62
Average
15
Poor
9
Terrible
7
Brian K
Columbus, OH49 contributions
Mar 2021
We have enjoyed the two hour Rusty Anchor Boat Tour three times in the past four years, and highly recommend it for couples young or old, as well as families with kids of all ages. Becky and Jinny were patient and kind and fun on the phone booking our tour and worked to get us the best rates. Our boat crew members were courteous and skilled, with a complete commentary of the areas we toured. Mother Nature always cooperates with lovely weather, magnificent birds and a few gators for viewing in the canal. This trip, we brought our daughter visiting from Ohio, and she Loved the experience! We enjoyed the boat trip across the lake, the canal, and seeing the interesting homes along the shoreline. Lunch outdoors afterwards and cute shops in town enhanced our visit. Thanks for a perfect day in Mount Dora! Betsy & Brian
Written April 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jean U
Florida7 contributions
May 2020 • Friends
Captain Dave and John gave us a great tour of Lake Dora & the canal. During this time of social distancing with the virus, the boat was allowed a maximum of 10 people. There's plenty of room to move around without getting too close to the other people on the boat. They let us get up and walk to the outside rail as they described the Lake Harris Chain of Lakes and the region. While going through the canal they pointed out things of interest like an alligator sitting on the log, a bird's nest, explained the cypress trees and pointed out the Christmas tree that the local people decorate. Captain Dave did a great job navigating the boat through the narrow channel.
I would highly recommend taking this tour with the Rusty Anchor.
I would highly recommend taking this tour with the Rusty Anchor.
Written May 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for taking the time to give us a review. We were delighted to take you folks out on a two hour cruise. Showing you guys the real Florida was our pleasure. Hope to see you again sometime.
Captain David and 1st mate John
Written May 26, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tim R
1 contribution
Apr 2020
My 5-year-old and I were just walking around Mount Dora in the midst of quarantine, getting some fresh air somewhere other than home (we live in Orlando). We were both very excited to see The Rusty Anchor was still offering their cheapest lake tour. Everything was wiped down, hand sanitizer was easily accessible right next the entrance to the boat, and sanitary wipes were always within easy reach. The boat was still big enough that we could keep a safe distance, too.
Needless to say, this was a wonderful surprise for my son, who wasn't expecting to crank up the boat motor and go out and see some gators (three!) in Lake Dora. Capt. Dave was great company, and a great time was had by all.
I was glad to support this local business in these difficult times, and if you're looking for something safe to do amid these COVID times, this is a great opportunity.
Needless to say, this was a wonderful surprise for my son, who wasn't expecting to crank up the boat motor and go out and see some gators (three!) in Lake Dora. Capt. Dave was great company, and a great time was had by all.
I was glad to support this local business in these difficult times, and if you're looking for something safe to do amid these COVID times, this is a great opportunity.
Written April 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It was a pleasure taking you two out!! To see his eyes light up behind the wheel was an awesome sight! My new junior Captain!! Yes. Saw two big gators 🐊 to boot!!! I loved to company as well!
Go Knights!!
USCG MASTER Captain David
Written April 18, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stacy
1 contribution
Sep 2020
Don't expect too much from this arrogant, petty group. We had to reschedule due to COVID-19 sickness in March. We asked them if they wanted us to ride with the passengers after we discovered one of us was potentially positive with COVID, or if they would reschedule. At first they said no, we would lose our money. I even told them I would forfeit the money vs. exposing someone on the boat. After talking with the owner they reconsidered and assured us we could reschedule and I was very impressed they would work with us. Now, when we called to reschedule along with 4 new paid guests in September, the "dockmaster" is too proud or forgetful to remember what her email meant confirming we should contact her when we needed to reschedule.
As a local for over 20 years I will be sure to never recommend them again. We would recommend Premier Boat Tours instead.
Not even the natural beauty of a Mount Dora lakeview sunset with a cool breeze and the lowest humidity would entice me to choose this company again. If you are looking at this tour, pray you don't have any emergencies last minute.....they don't play well with others and they definitely don't keep their word. My impression is that they would have preferred a potentially positive COVID-19 patient expose their passengers than provide a $25.00 credit. Enjoy your $25.00, signed a Disappointed guest
As a local for over 20 years I will be sure to never recommend them again. We would recommend Premier Boat Tours instead.
Not even the natural beauty of a Mount Dora lakeview sunset with a cool breeze and the lowest humidity would entice me to choose this company again. If you are looking at this tour, pray you don't have any emergencies last minute.....they don't play well with others and they definitely don't keep their word. My impression is that they would have preferred a potentially positive COVID-19 patient expose their passengers than provide a $25.00 credit. Enjoy your $25.00, signed a Disappointed guest
Written September 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FrenchGal50
Guilderland, NY11 contributions
Jan 2020
Our one-hour sunset cruise from Lake Dora into Lake Bauclair with Rusty Anchor was lovely. If we had wanted we could have brought a cooler with snacks and beverages. The captain was very informative. We saw several different kinds of birds including the American bald eagle. It was interesting and enjoyable. I recommend it. The price of $20 per person is very reasonable.
Written January 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ModestoLori
Modesto, CA32 contributions
Feb 2020
The Rusty Anchor company provides several different cruises to fit one’s schedule and budget. We enjoyed the two hour tour of Lake Dora. We traveled from Lake Dora to Lake Eustis through the Dora Canal, which was one of the film locations for “African Queen.” Our captain was a skilled navigator and very pleasant. He pointed out significant flora and fauna along the way. We even saw an alligator skulking behind the roots of a cypress tree festooned with Spanish moss. Our boat had comfortable bench seating with back support as well as a roof for sun protection. I highly recommend this relaxing cruise.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for the review. It truly is the prettiest mile of waterway in Florida. We live showing it off !
Written February 23, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mdg0lfer81
Mount Dora, FL8 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Five year old grandson thoroughly enjoyed our cruise. They had a $10 special fare for a 30 minute cruise around the lake. Saw a large gator sunning at Lakeside Inn; eagles and learned the history if the area . Imagine the thrill to be 5 and help steer the boat! Wonderful day!
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
c b
Ocala, FL3 contributions
Oct 2020
Purchased a Groupon deal for 2 for the Sunset or Shoreline Cruise for Two.Buyer beware.I was aware that the groupon deal notes boat must have 4 people to leave the doc. I made my reservation noting I had the Groupon. Received confirmation. 9:11 AM date of sailing I received VM asking me to return call. I had already driven over an hour to get to the dock in time. Upon arrival they said they did not have enough people to sail I explained that my groupon was due to Expire this week. They said you cuold have used it before now. Advised to go to Groupon for refund. I explained we did not use prior to now due to covid and being high risk and that Groupon would not refund due to certificate being viewed. They did offer the Suset cruise which was avail 6PM but we were not able to stick around.Thank you to the Kind Gentleman who lives in Mt Dora that purchased the extra ticket so we could go, that was very thoughtful of you. The Captain was great and knowledeable and showed us 2 eagles and their nest and an osprey nest. Sorry to say we did not see much more wildlife. I have been on similar trips elsewhere in FL and seen better. Also note when I reviewed the time to go the Sunset is not even offered on their calendar and their website was not too helpful. Staff not wearing masks and otherpassengers 5 were on our boat were not wearing masks or took off after boarding. I had on shield and it was a bit windy for that wear cloth mask if going.
Written October 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
As it is stated on the Groupon it takes 4 people to go and Groupon offers a 4 person ticket. As it turned out there were several people that went out on the tour. So for you to diss us for reminding you what the Groupon states on the Groupon ticket I feel is very uncalled for, but it is what it is. As far as Covid goes we are meeting all CDC requirements and will until other wise notified. We hope you reconsider your thoughts about our tours because you won’t find a better tour in the state and we hope to see you again. You can buy tickets 24/7 at RustyAnchorMountDora.com
Written October 21, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Catherine B
Mount Dora, FL7 contributions
May 2020
Captain David was terrific, very informative. We saw & got very close to gators, egrets, eagles. Th lakes were all beautiful and our captain knew many interesting facts and stories about the areas we toured. The cruise covered Lake dora shoreline, Lake Beauclaire and Lake Carlton, so we went all the way south to Tangerine & back. Thoroughly enjoyable, can't wait to do it again! Going back with hubby for sunset tour soon!
Written May 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks!!! We look forward to taking you folks nest visit to the prettiest mile of waterway in Florida!!
The two hour Dora Canal trip. Thanks so very much for supporting us through these tough times. 👍
USCG Master Captain David
Written May 4, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dad-E
Washington DC, DC139 contributions
Aug 2020
The 2-hour Dora Canal tour was pleasant and the guide was very knowledgeable regarding questions and the information during the tour in general. The captain was also very accommodating making sure we were all comfortable, from opening windows for a better view/breeze and cold water during the trip.
The tour itself places you right in the heart of a wilderness as if the modern world does not exist. We saw many types of birds and an alligator. This 2-hour tour is a great option if possible.
The tour itself places you right in the heart of a wilderness as if the modern world does not exist. We saw many types of birds and an alligator. This 2-hour tour is a great option if possible.
Written August 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Do you have a toilet on board? Thank you
Written May 24, 2022
We have 2 large boats that do have a toilet onboard and 1 smaller boat that doesn't. If there is a need just let our staff know when you book your tour and we'll do our best to accommodate.
Written April 19, 2023
Yes they are unless another passenger has a problem with it and we have never had a problem so far.
Written September 10, 2020
Can you bring food and drinks on the boat?
Written May 20, 2019
FREE ICE COLD BOTTLES OF WATER ARE ON THE BOAT. The other tour company in town charges for water
Written September 14, 2021
Do we eat in the restaurant on the lunch tour? Do we start with lunch, then its a 2 hour tour?
Written May 17, 2017
We eat lunch it about the middle of the tour at a waterfront restaurant. The tour is offered 7 days a week so come join us any time just make a reservation.
Written July 26, 2017
Are you giving the lunch cruise on Easter?
What does the lunch on lunch cruise
Consist of ?
Written April 7, 2017
The lunch cruise goes every day. We stop at restaurant and you buy what ever you want , we usually stop at O 'Keefes in Tavares .
Hope the see you soon.
Written April 8, 2017
Can we bring Cooler on board boat. I have
reserved the lunch cruise
Written April 4, 2017
You can bring anything you want to eat or drink with you , coolers are welcome.
Hope to see you soon
Written April 4, 2017
Do the tours operate 7 days a week and what is the rate?
Written February 1, 2016
Two hour Dora Canal trip. 33 per person.
30 minute lakefront tour only 10.00 per person
1 hour shoreline (most popular) 20.00
Private tours and group special pricing available
Written September 14, 2021
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