I Took a Ride On The Songo River Queen But Not The Songo River

The Songo River Queen is the name given to two paddle-wheel boats in Naples that were built as replicas of those that used to travel the Mississippi rivers. The original boat was lost in a fire in 1981 and today the Songo River Queen II takes passengers on excursions laucnhing from the Naples causeway.

Michele and I decided to be like tourists and take a ride on Long Lake on The Songo River Queen II. Why is it called that Songo River Queen when it travels on Long Lake?

Well up until 2011, the boat used to pass from Long Lake to Brandy Pond and on through the locks of the Songo River through the swing bridge at the Naples Causway. That all ended when the boat became landlocked in Long Lake with the construction of the new fixed bridge that replaces the aging swing bridge.

It's still an interesting trip around Long Lake though. We were piloted by Captain Ron, how also acted as tour guide telling the history of the causeway and the various homes on the lake.

There are some really expensive houses on Long Lake, like this one that is actually someone's summer home! It's for sale if you can afford it.

The trip around a portion of the 11-mile long lake (See where it gets it's name) took an hour and was only $15. They've got a full bar on board too. Cash only so grab some out of the ATM near the ticket booth.

It's worth the trip. If you want to learn more about the Songo River Queen II or that house of sale, we've got your links right here.