Glide into the Past on Our Private Airboat Tour!
Embark on an exciting fossil hunting adventure down the scenic Peace River, where you'll dig and sift for prehistoric fossils dating back 10,000 to 10,000,000 years! Discover ancient bones from the Ice Age, as well as shark teeth, including those from the legendary Megalodon, the largest shark to ever roam the oceans. Peace River shark tooth hunting is world-famous, and now you can join us on a guided hunt! Along the way, our expert guides will share fascinating insights into the history and science of fossils, helping you learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the earth. It’s a hands-on, educational experience you won’t forget!
FOSSIL JUNKIES EXPERIENCE
Are you passionate about hunting Megalodon shark teeth? The Peace River Formation, located in Southwest Florida, is one of the richest fossil hunting spots in the United States. Join us on the ULTIMATE Florida adventure! Our fossil hunting airboat tour departs from Arcadia and Gardner, Florida. Spend the day cruising down the beautiful Peace River, experiencing the sights and sounds of Old Florida. Along the way, we'll take you to the best fossil locations, where you'll enjoy water-based digging and sifting for Florida's prehistoric past.
Our fossil excursion runs from 8 AM to 4 PM, with three daily start times: 8 AM, 10 AM, and 12 PM. Each tour lasts 4 hours, and you'll be guaranteed to go home with a collection of fossils and lasting memories. We currently accommodate small groups of up to 2 participants—perfect for couples, parents and children, or two friends looking to explore and discover amazing fossils together. Ice-cold water, shovels, and sifters are provided. Just bring light snacks and any drinks you'd like to enjoy during the adventure.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR TRIP
We understand your expectations are high—and we’re here to exceed them! Our EXPERIENCED STAFF will guide you throughout the trip. Please arrive on time for your tour departure. Upon meeting at the launch site, Captain John will load your group onto our private airboat, and we’ll head upriver to the fossil hunting grounds. On the way, keep an eye out for wildlife like birds, deer, alligators, basking turtles, and even the occasional bald eagle. The scenic, natural limestone high embankments of the Peace River are a perfect backdrop, taking you back in time.
Once we arrive at the hunting grounds, you'll get into the shallow waters of the river with our digging tools and sifters. We’ll target the gravel beds at the river’s bottom. Expect to dig and sift in knee- to waist-deep water using our custom scoops. Be sure to wear water shoes or dive booties—no flip-flops. We’ll run each scoop of gravel through sifting screens to wash away the sand, sort the gravel, and find fossils. Our team will assist with identifying your discoveries and provide fossil collecting bags for your finds.
While alligators are native to the Peace River, they are rarely seen at our digging locations. Once the dig time is over, we’ll review your finds, share insights about Florida’s prehistoric history, and head back to the boat ramp for another enjoyable airboat ride. The tour lasts a minimum of 4 hours, with some tours running longer based on group pace.
WHAT TO EXPECT TO FIND
During your fossil hunting adventure, expect to find bones from the last Ice Age, along with smaller shark teeth from various species. Common finds include Ice Age horse teeth, mammoth teeth, fragments from the Colombian Mammoth, Glyptodon scoots, and teeth from sloths, bison, deer, and llama. You might even find fossilized alligator and crocodile teeth, along with their armor plates, land tortoise fragments, and prehistoric whale and dolphin bones. Occasionally, you may uncover artifacts from ancient man, such as arrowheads, which must be returned to the river due to Florida state laws.
And, of course, the highlight of the trip: Megalodon shark teeth! These massive fossils are commonly found on our tours, and with a little luck, you could take home a 2.5-million-year-old Megalodon tooth!
WHAT THE CAPTAIN SUPPLIES
Digging scoopers and sifters
Fossil collecting bags
Ice-cold beverages
Earmuffs for the airboat ride
WHAT YOU SHOULD BRING
Water booties or water shoes you don’t mind getting wet
Sunscreen
Snacks and drinks of your choice
Wetsuits (recommended December-March)
Gloves (optional)
Remember to pack light! Airboats are designed to glide on top of the water, so the less weight, the better. Only bring essentials—if it’s not necessary, leave it behind!
TOUR DETAILS
Weight limit: Up to 500 pounds for the small airboat private tour
Private Group Tours: Currently offering tours for 2 people only until our larger airboat is finished (expected by February 2025).
For more information or to book your tour, contact Captain John at (239) 645-6347.
Join us today and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!
Do you have a passion for hunting Megalodon shark teeth?
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Hop aboard our fun 3-passenger fossil-hunting airboat, powered by a reliable 4-cylinder aircraft engine. Glide through the shallow waters and scenic landscapes of the Peace River, with stunning views of wildlife, lush fauna, and a glimpse of Old Florida. Earmuffs are provided, but be sure to bring your glasses and sunscreen! This is one of the most exciting tours for sightseeing, discovery, and, of course, finding fossils—including Megalodon shark teeth!
Join Our Mailing List for Announcements, Updates and Discount Codes for adventures or meg teeth with Fossil Junkies. Folks who sign up are entered to win our "Meg-a-Month" giveaway!