Set sail on a peaceful 30-minute boat tour through Mount Dora’s historic lakefront, discovering scenic landmarks and vibrant local wildlife. Perfect for a relaxing escape close to Orlando.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion is required.
Wildlife
History
Mount Dora’s waterfront has been a center for boating and trade since the late 1800s, with landmarks like the Lakeside Inn dating back over a century.
Conservation
Rusty Anchor actively supports lake preservation efforts, promoting eco-friendly boating to protect local ecosystems.
Rusty Anchor Mount Dora
Set sail on a peaceful 30-minute boat tour through Mount Dora’s historic lakefront, discovering scenic landmarks and vibrant local wildlife. Perfect for a relaxing escape close to Orlando.
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 Best Boarding
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure smooth boarding and get settled comfortably.
Bring Sunscreen and a Hat
Florida sun can be strong even on cloudy days, so protect yourself during this open-air boat tour.
Keep Cameras Ready
You'll want to capture views of the lighthouse, Boat House Row, and wildlife, so have your camera or smartphone handy.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Non-slip shoes are recommended as the boat deck may be wet or slippery at times.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from strong sun exposure during the open-air boat ride.
summer
Light Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during cooler autumn breezes offshore.
fall
Waterproof Camera Case
Protects your electronics from splashes while capturing stunning lake views.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated makes your boat tour experience more enjoyable.