Discover the thrill of water sports with a private half-day lesson in Winter Haven, Florida. Perfect for beginners and thrill-seekers alike, this experience offers expert guidance and unforgettable lake views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape and comfortable with active movement and balance.
Wildlife
History
Winter Haven is known as the 'Chain of Lakes City,' historically significant for its extensive freshwater lakes that have supported local recreation and transportation since the early 1900s.
Conservation
Briscoe's Ride Center promotes sustainable practices by using eco-friendly gear and encouraging guests to respect local wildlife habitats and minimize water pollution.
Briscoe's Ride Center Inc.
Discover the thrill of water sports with a private half-day lesson in Winter Haven, Florida. Perfect for beginners and thrill-seekers alike, this experience offers expert guidance and unforgettable lake views.
Briscoe's Ride Center Inc. is a Winter Haven, Florida water sports and tour operator specializing in guided pontoon cruises and hands-on watersports instruction. The company operates narrated scenic cruises across the historic Winter Haven Chain of Lakes, offering one-, two-, and four-hour options that highlight local history, wildlife viewing, and the area's reputation as the "Capital of Waterskiing Worldwide." Briscoe's also provides experiential watersports services, including single-hour group sessions for up to six participants, full-day private lessons with four tailored sessions, a ten-lesson beginner challenge, and extended stay-and-play programs available by the week or month.
All lessons and group sessions include necessary equipment and focus on disciplines such as slalom, wakeboarding, wakesurfing, barefoot techniques, and kneeboarding. Instruction is personalized to participant skill level and goals, with programming that supports beginners through advanced riders. The operator emphasizes safety and local knowledge while operating on the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes, pointing out wildlife, historic sites, and notable waterski locations during cruises. Offerings are described with clear durations — one hour, two hours, four hours, and full day eight-hour packages — and structured lesson packs that enable skill progression over multiple sessions. For visitors seeking a guided lake experience, family-friendly wildlife viewing, or concentrated watersports training, Briscoe's presents clearly defined options tailored to a variety of interests and abilities. Booking information, schedules, pricing transparency, and equipment inclusions are provided by the operator to assist guests in planning lake-based activities. Availability varies by season; reservations are recommended to secure preferred dates and times.
Location
Winter Haven, FL
On the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes
Durations
1–8 hours
One, two, four, and full-day options
Group Size
Up to 6
Group watersports accommodate six
Tours Offered
8
Cruises, lessons, and multi-day programs
Select a cruise, group session, or lesson and secure preferred dates and times.
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Lesson
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated while on the water, especially under Florida's sun.
Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and minimize environmental impact on local waterways.
Arrive Early to Check Equipment
Arriving early ensures you'll have enough time to get familiar with your gear and meet your instructor without rush.
Know Basic Swimming Skills
Basic swimming ability is recommended for safety and confidence during water activities.
Comfortable Swimsuit
Allows for freedom of movement and quick drying after water activity.
summer
Water Shoes
Protects feet when walking around docks or on rocky shorelines.
Lightweight Rash Guard
Provides sun protection and helps prevent irritation from water sports equipment.
spring
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Reduces glare and protects your eyes from sun exposure on the water.