Pontoon Boat Rides with The Living Water Boat Cruises in Winter Haven - Orlando

Pontoon Boat Rides with The Living Water Boat Cruises in Winter Haven

Orlandoeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Overview

Set off from LEGOLAND® Hotel into the calm lakes of Winter Haven with The Living Water Boat Cruises. Slow-moving pontoon tours bring a quiet and accessible lake adventure to Florida’s freshwater heartland.

Details

Winter Haven, Florida, holds its charm with a network of over 50 freshwater lakes connected by calm channels and scenic waterways. The Living Water Boat Cruises taps into this natural marine grid, offering pontoon boat rides departing from the LEGOLAND® Hotel. This unique adventure lets visitors trade theme-park bustle for the tranquil pulse of Central Florida’s water trails.

Navigating the Peace River Basin, these pontoon tours reveal a side of Winter Haven that many visitors overlook. The calm waters reflect the towering cypress, scattered palms, and occasional heron or anhinga drying its wings on exposed branches. The Living Water Boat Cruises specializes in small-group rides that ease guests into this laid-back environment without overwhelming crowds. The slow pace and oversized decks make their boats accessible for families and casual adventurers alike, inviting everyone to soak in the serene atmosphere.

This experience offers more than a boat ride; it’s a practical way to connect with Central Florida’s freshwater ecosystems. Unlike high-speed jet skis or crowded tours, the pontoon cruises emphasize comfort and stability, perfect for photography, birdwatching, or simply drifting with the current. As the sun dips toward the horizon, passengers often witness spectacular reflections and soft pastel skies that complement the calm lakescape.

The Living Water Boat Cruises fits naturally into Winter Haven’s outdoor scene by highlighting the city’s signature water routes while being based at an accessible hub like the LEGOLAND® Hotel. For travelers looking to combine theme-park excitement with peaceful nature immersion, this spot offers a distinct balance. It’s an easy-access water adventure that reveals the quiet pulse beneath Central Florida’s tourist-driven surface.

Adventure Tips

Bring sun protection

Open decks mean strong sun exposure even in winter—pack sunscreen and a hat.

Arrive early for best seating

Early guests get prime spots on the pontoon for unobstructed views and photos.

Wear non-slip footwear

Boat decks can be slippery when wet; sturdy shoes improve stability.

Stay hydrated

Bring water aboard to stay refreshed during the 1- to 2-hour ride.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Snow White’s Winter Garden—small, lesser-known lakeside park near the route
  • Lake Howard’s mangrove pockets with frequent sightings of turtles

Wildlife

  • Great blue herons
  • Florida river otters

History

Winter Haven's lakes were originally part of a natural chain used for early commercial and recreational boating in Florida dating back to the 19th century.

Conservation

The Living Water Boat Cruises promotes responsible boating practices to protect water quality and local wildlife habitats in this delicate freshwater system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
early morning
late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Lakeside dock near LEGOLAND® Hotel
  • Quiet coves along Peace River surprises
  • Open water with reflective lake surfaces

What to Photograph

Waterfowl in natural habitats
Sunlight filtering through cypress knees
Smooth lake reflections at sunrise or sunset

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from intense Florida sun on open water.

summer specific

Wide-brimmed hat

Essential

Shields face and neck from sun exposure during the ride.

summer specific

Water bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated during the pontoon cruise.

Non-slip shoes

Essential

Provides traction on wet or slippery boat surfaces.