Marsh Runner Tours
« We introduce the scenery, not the reptiles. »The owner's motto · Mavis et Joel Weller
- OwnerMavis et Joel Weller
- Since1974
- Address626 Palmetto Drive, Everglades
From interchange 9, follow Palmetto Drive to the landing with three hanging life jackets. - Opening hoursDaily departures 8am, 11am and 5pm; weather checked before every boarding.
Its story
Mavis and her son Joel opened in 1974 with a boat and a bird notebook. She pilots; he counts turtles and fish without promising they will stay for photographs.
In 1984, a group named a large reptile Kevin; it promptly moved away. Joel added the anonymity rule; the tour earned its reputation by leaving residents in peace.
Anecdotes
- In August 1984, customer Elsie Marr wrote “Kevin” on a card; Joel filed it text-side down to avoid showing the animal.
- In April 1985, Big Lou brought a tape recorder for birds; Mavis insisted he switch off his commentary.
- In June 1986, Dolores Van Pelt inaugurated one landing step and asked when the second began.
The ad
Played completely straight, on VOLT 107.3 FM.
(voix documentaire)Listen to VOLT 107.3 FM →
Les Everglades sont calmes au coucher du soleil.
Enfin…
suffisamment calmes pour entendre les oiseaux.
Marsh Runner Tours propose des excursions en bateau dans les marais.
Loin des routes.
Loin des néons.
On y voit des oiseaux.
Des poissons.
Des tortues.
(pause)
Et parfois un gros reptile qui préfère rester anonyme.
Le guide conseille de ne pas lui donner de prénom.
Les clients le font quand même.
(pause)
Le dernier s'appelait Kevin.
Kevin n'a pas apprécié.
Marsh Runner.
Certains habitants préfèrent ne pas être présentés.
Good to know
- The notebook distinguishes birds seen from birds heard.
- The boat has twelve places; anonymity occupies none.
The neighbour
Iron Coast ClubIron Coast Club is two gates away; Joel trains his arms there without calling it an excursion.