KEY LARGO, Fla. — You can glide across the waters and canals in Key Largo on pretty much any boat, ship, or water sport vessel you can think of.
- Glide across canals in the African Queen Boat Cruise
- Boat was set of 1950's award-winning film
- Want more info? Visit africanqueenflkeys.com/cruise
But what about something from the early Hollywood years?
It's a smaller vessel that might catch your eye as it glides through the crystal clear water.
“It’s probably one of the most unique jobs on the planet … running a steam boat ... not too many around anymore in service like ours," Captain Lance Holmquist said.
Lance helmed the stern of the African Queen as Captain for over a decade. The boat's history dates back a little further though -- try the 1800's.
“This is 150-year-old authentic black African mahogany wood on the boat," Lance said.
But its old age and durability isn't quite what it’s known for.
“This was actually a Hollywood film studio back in the ‘50s," Lance said.
The African Queen was the set of the 1950’s Academy Award-winning film of the same name, staring classic Hollywood actors Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart.
“The people that come see it are always enthusiastic — from the film buffs who love the movie, to those who just want to see the mechanics behind a real steam boat," Lance said.
Now docked at its permanent home in Key Largo, you’ll traverse the waters in style and relive a little piece of Hollywood magic.
The African Queen boat tours last around an hour and a half. Their tour times include 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
For more information head to their website: africanqueenflkeys.com/cruise.