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Friday, March 29, 2024

Handicap accessible glass-bottom boat finds new home at Silver Springs State Park

A handicap accessible glass-bottom boat has found a new home at Silver Springs State Park.

Construction of the Chief Potackee Betty Mae Tiger Jumper is complete and the vessel has made the journey to the park, which is located at 5656 East Silver Springs Boulevard.

Chief Potackee Betty Mae Tiger Jumper
Chief Potackee Betty Mae Tiger Jumper

According to a social media post from the Friends of Silver Springs State Park, the boat was not yet ready for passengers as of June 26. When the vessel is ready for passengers, the park will notify the public. 

Glass-bottom boats were invented at Silver Springs in the 1870s, according to the Marion County Public Library system. This photo of the boats docked was captured sometime in the 1950s.

Glass bottom boats were invented in Silver Springs in 1870s photo from 1950s
Glass bottom boats were invented in Silver Springs in 1870s. This photo was taken in the 1950s

For more information on the organization, its events, and its services, visit the Silver Springs State Park website.