You might know it only from the George Gershwin song "Swanee." He sings "The folks up north will see me no more when I get to that Swanee Shore." Gershwin had it right: houseboating the Suwannee is the real deal in getting away from it all. Click "play" on the video below and read on to take a journey with me on the great Suwannee...
The Suwannee is a wild, unsoiled black water river about 246 miles long. Miller's Marina is located at the mouth of the river, about a 70 mile drive from Gainesville Florida. This area is known for many of the largest, and quite possibly the most beautiful springs in the world. Cruise on your 44' Houseboat over 70 miles north on the river. There are so many areas to explore:
East Pass is a great area for fishing. With tarpon schools, drum (a powerful saltwater fish), redfish, sea trout and even freshwater species like largemouth bass and bream, this spot is perfect for dropping a line in the quiet waters and relaxing from the dock of your houseboat.
Cruise the savannahs near the Gulf and listen to the sound of hundreds of frogs singing in the night; strangely relaxing being so immersed in nature.
Visit Manatee Springs and hang out with...that's right...manatees. While you're at it, be sure not to miss Fanning Springs or Guaranto Springs.
Head north, traveling a historic route followed by the Confederate sternwheelers which explored this river over 100 years ago. Old Town, Rock Bluff, Branford and Hart Springs are fascinating stops as well. Old Town, near Fanning Springs, was home to an Indian Community (aka the Upper Creeks) which is now home to the famous Lighthouse restaurant renowned for its seafood and fried green tomatoes.
Turn up the Santa Fe River and follow the windy waterway to Sandy Point where there is more dining as well as a great place for swimming and tubing. The cold and pure Santa Fe, unlike the dark and mysterious Suwannee, runs clear as it's fed by several springs.
And that's just the tip of the iceberg. After houseboating the Suwannee River, you'll try to capture the experience while telling others, but nothing will come close.
Experience it for yourself! Call 888-454-8825 or Request Information online for availability or more information.