Rusty Anchor Mount Dora gives visitors a unique lens on Central Florida’s water landscapes through calm canal rides and sunset cruises. Glide past cypress-lined canals, spot native wildlife, and enjoy lakefront dining on these accessible boat tours.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; tours are seated boat rides requiring minimal physical exertion.
Wildlife
History
Mount Dora’s waterways have long been central to the town’s identity, used historically for transportation and trade through the early 20th century.
Conservation
Rusty Anchor practices sustainable boating, minimizing wake and disturbance to protect the delicate ecosystem along the Dora Canal.
Rusty Anchor Mount Dora
Rusty Anchor Mount Dora gives visitors a unique lens on Central Florida’s water landscapes through calm canal rides and sunset cruises. Glide past cypress-lined canals, spot native wildlife, and enjoy lakefront dining on these accessible boat tours.
Rusty Anchor Mount Dora is a boat tour operator based in Mount Dora, Florida, offering a variety of guided cruises on Lake Dora and the Dora Canal.
The operator's public schedule includes seasonal and year‑round experiences designed for sightseeing, dining, and holiday events. Offerings listed for Rusty Anchor Mount Dora include a one‑hour Christmas Lights Boat Tour, a three‑hour Dora Canal Lunch Tour with a waterfront restaurant stop, and a two‑hour Dora Canal Tour from Mount Dora that highlights cypress trees, Spanish moss, and local wildlife such as birds, turtles, and alligators. Additional options feature a three‑hour Sunset Dinner Cruise with waterfront dining and sunset views of the Mount Dora skyline, a one‑hour Shoreline Tour of historic Mount Dora landmarks like Boat House Row and the Lighthouse, and a 30‑minute Lakefront Tour showcasing the Lakeside Inn and Alligator Cove. Shorter one‑hour Sunset Cruises are also available for evening sightseeing.
Seasonal and special events appear on the calendar, including applications for the 35th Annual Mount Dora Lighted Boat Parade on December 6, 2025, and a Light Up Mount Dora Fireworks & Drone Show Cruise scheduled for November 22, 2025. One listing labeled “Unknown” describes a 2.5‑hour culinary tour of Charleston’s Upper King Street; that trip summary is included in the operator’s published itinerary. Booking details, schedules, and safety information are available through official listings and event announcements. Contact details and reservations appear on operator's calendar.
Location
Mount Dora, FL
Operates on Lake Dora and Dora Canal
Typical Durations
30 min–3 hrs
Short to multi‑hour cruises
Tours Offered
10 Trips
Seasonal and year‑round options
Events & Holidays
Parade & Fireworks
Includes holiday cruises and shows
Book Christmas lights, Dora Canal, sunset, or special-event cruises on Lake Dora for an authentic Mount Dora waterfront experience.
Arrive Early for Parking
The parking area at Rusty Anchor is tight and limited; plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Bring a Light Sweater
Even on hot days, evening cruises can get breezy with water spray; a light sweater keeps you comfortable.
Consider Ear Protection
The initial open boat ride to the canal can be noisy; earplugs might help if you’re sensitive to sound.
Prepare for Limited Wildlife Sightings
While birds and turtles are common, alligator sightings are rare during tours; enjoy the plant life and birdwatching.
Light Sweater or Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during breezy or cooler evening cruises.
summer|fall|winter
Sun Protection (Hat, Sunscreen)
Necessary to shield from strong Florida sun during open boat segments.
spring|summer|fall
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching along the canal.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the stunning lakeside and sunset views throughout the tour.