HOMESTEAD BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Sixty Horses, Four Hours: Skiffing Out of Flamingo Lodge
A 4-hour rental of a 17ft Mako Pro Skiff with a 60HP Yamaha outboard in Homestead — the essential facts on capacity, timing, and planning for a half-day on the water.
Sixty Horses, Four Hours: Skiffing Out of Flamingo Lodge.
Adventure brief
Sixty Horses, Four Hours: Skiffing Out of Flamingo Lodge
This half-day rental puts you in a 17ft Mako Pro Skiff powered by a 60HP Yamaha outboard. Operated by Flamingo Adventures — Everglades National Park — the craft is sized for up to three adults and sold as a four-hour outing that lets you explore the local waters while remaining compliant with operator rules and local regulations.
Experience the thrill of exploring the vibrant waters of the Florida Everglades on the 17ft Mako Skiff with Flamingo Adventures. This half-day boat tour offers an intimate way to discover the region’s diverse wildlife, unique ecosystems, and stunning scenery. As you glide through the calm waterways, you'll have opportunities to spot playful dolphins, elegant herons, and perhaps even a glimpse of a manatee. The lightweight Mako Skiff provides agility and speed, making it perfect for navigating shallow waters and accessing hard-to-reach spots. Whether you're a seasoned boat enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this adventure combines excitement with an educational touch, guided by knowledgeable local experts who share fascinating facts about the area's history and ecology. The tour is ideal for travelers seeking a fun, family-friendly outdoor activity that showcases the natural beauty of Homestead and the Everglades. With comfortable seating and easy access, it's a fantastic way to spend a few hours immersed in nature's splendor while enjoying Florida’s warm sunshine and gentle breezes. This experience not only highlights the rich biodiversity but also emphasizes conservation efforts crucial to preserving this delicate environment for future generations.
Route Schematic
Half-Day Route Snapshot
A straightforward run: meet at the lodge, spend time on the water, and return to the marina within the operator’s window.
Flamingo Lodge — Meet & Launch
Meet at the activity location on Flamingo Lodge Highway in Homestead to collect keys and begin your rental.
Explore the local waters
Spend the bulk of the four-hour rental exploring nearby waters aboard the Mako Pro Skiff.
Return to the marina
Complete your rental by returning to the marina/activity booth within the operator’s store hours unless you have an overnight exception.
All non-overnight rentals must be returned during on-site booth/store hours; operators may alter routes or requirements for safety or regulations.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
17ft Mako Pro Skiff with 60HP Yamaha
A compact, high-powered skiff fitted with a 60HP Yamaha outboard provides a responsive, capable platform for half-day exploration.
Built for small groups: up to three adults
The rental is intended for small parties—typically no more than three adults—keeping operations simple and compliant with the operator’s limits.
Half-day windows and on-site booth service
Rentals are sold as half-day outings; the operator runs an on-site activity booth and provides direct marina contact for questions and coordination.
What the day feels like
What the half-day feels like
Over four hours you’re in direct control of a nimble 17ft Mako Pro Skiff powered by a 60HP Yamaha, moving from the marina into open water to explore at your own pace. The setup is straightforward: a short meet-up, boat-out time for a few hours on the water, then return within the rental window.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this half-day is best for — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The operator’s activity booth is open 8AM–5PM; all rentals (except overnights) must be returned during those hours. Confirm start times and any overnight arrangements with the marina.
For any logistical questions contact the marina directly at (239) 695-1095.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the rental?
The half-day rental duration is four hours.
Where do I meet for the rental?
Meet at 1 Flamingo Lodge Hwy, Homestead, FL for check-in and launch.
How many people fit on the skiff?
The 17ft Mako Pro Skiff is intended for up to three adults.
What are the activity booth hours and return policy?
The activity booth operates from 8AM to 5PM; all rentals (with the exception of overnights) must be returned during store hours.
Who operates this rental?
The operator is Flamingo Adventures - Everglades National Park.
Who can I call with questions before my trip?
The marina may be contacted directly at (239) 695-1095 for questions and coordination.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:44:29.145Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.