Truly a Heart of Florida Treasure

Working on the 2nd edition of the Heart of Florida Scenic Travel Guide, I am fortunate to experience what the Heart of Florida has to offer and Tuesday was no exception with Dunnellon’s own "Singing River Tours" with Captain Jon Semmes.  Enjoy the photos by clicking for larger views -- scroll down the page for my full blog entry.

Singing River Tours is located at the fork of the Withlacoochee and Rainbow Rivers in Dunnellon at the newly remodeled, beautiful Angler’s Resort.  Yes, I said rivers, because it is here that the black, mystical waters of the Withlacoochee and crystal clear waters of Rainbow come together, creating a unity of nature and wild Florida. 

We began our journey leaving Angler’s Resort slowly up the river aboard a 24 foot pontoon boat on what was a very picturesque morning. Captain Jon seemed to be narrating a play as, on queue, the river came alive to greet us.  From Anhingas and Cormorants drying their wings on cypress trees outlying the river edges and coves, to alligators moving between the layers of duck weed and water ever so stealthily looking for their next meal, the abundance of wildlife was amazing.  We found otters playing like school children at recess and turtles resting on logs taking in the morning sun.

Captain Jon pilots the boat slowly up the river, explaining the history and wildlife in great, humorous detail that brings a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.  If that was not enough, we reach a serene cove on the Withlacoochee where Captain Jon, also a first class professional musician, anchored the boat and pulled out his guitar to entertain us with songs and stories about wild Florida. 

Singing River Tours, alive with nature and music, is truly a treasure of Dunnellon and a Heart of Florida "must see."

Sean M. Dowie 

Chief Photographer, Florida’s Eden

If you go:

“Singing River Tours” with Capt. Jon Semmes: (352) 804-1573,  Dunnellon FL