The Hillsborough River is steeped in rich and murky history dating back 27,000 years.
Though our memory going back that far is hazy, our tours will take you to several areas of interest upriver, such as Jean St. Shipyard, where Dulcinea was launched.
As the need for a center for trade expanded soon after the founding of the State of Florida, this shipyard was founded in 1843 to support cypress logging ships and soon thereafter, vessels for the Civil War.
In 1863 Union forces attacked two blockade runner ships docked at Jean St. Shipyard, thus resulting in the only Civil War action in Florida.
With the original structure still intact and serving as a woodworking shop, progress continued, and riverfront homes (such as the “Bootlegger” house) that later supported these illicit activities during Prohibition.
Further upriver you will find Sulphur Springs, which was THE vacation spot in the early 1900s for many throughout the United States.
Though the springs are currently closed it is full of wildlife, and cruising up to the springs and the nearby Sulphur Springs Water Tower you will find alligators, porpoise, manatee, and numerous species of birds.
We are fortunate to have a vessel that can safely navigate this area and clear all of the bridges along the way.
For decades downtown Tampa lacked the residential structures, vibrant restaurants, and activities to support a downtown community.
Tampa had The Hub, the iconic Tampa Theatre, and the elegant spires of the University of Tampa, formerly known as the Plant hotel with electricity installed by Thomas Edison.
Forward thinking by community leaders led to the development of the Tampa Riverwalk, catalyzing a stunning revitalization and transformation along the Hillsborough River and downtown Tampa.
Recognizing the potential of the river as a powerful feature, community leaders, planners, and developers embarked on a successful journey to restore and harness its beauty and potential.
The owners of Tampa Water Limo are multi-generational Floridians who have thoroughly enjoyed the remarkable transition along the Hillsborough River.
Understanding the unmet need of a luxury water limo service, we spent over a year searching for that perfect vessel perfect for a cocktail on the river or a trip across Tampa Bay — one meeting the need for up to 6 discerning guests wishing to see our beautiful city from the water.
