Family Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim

Family Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim: A Fun-Filled Adventure in Fort Lauderdale

Imagine spending a couple of hours cruising along the scenic waterways of Fort Lauderdale, known as the “Venice of America,” with your family or friends. For just $60.99 per person, this 2-hour boat tour offers a glimpse of the city’s luxurious yachts, sprawling mansions, bustling Port Everglades, and lively Las Olas Boulevard. Starting from Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach, the trip is designed to be both relaxing and engaging — a superb way to soak up the sunshine, see the sights, and enjoy some water-based fun.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the family-friendly vibe powered by friendly guides who keep the mood lively and informative. Secondly, its flexibility — you can bring your own food and drinks, and floaties are provided for water fun. While the itinerary is packed with sights, one thing to consider is that the tour’s length and stops might feel brief if you’re eager for a full day of exploration. Still, this experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, interactive outing that’s suitable for kids, couples, or groups of friends.

If you’re craving a scenic, low-pressure adventure with lots of water play and eye-catching views, this cruise is a great pick. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate engaging guides, want to see the luxurious side of Fort Lauderdale, and enjoy a lively, social atmosphere on the water.

Key Points

• Family-friendly atmosphere with engaging guides and water toys
• Scenic views of yachts, mansions, and bustling ports
• Flexible with bring-your-own food/drinks policy and onboard coolers
• Comfortable amenities including restrooms and shaded seating
• Ideal for all ages seeking a relaxed, fun water experience
• Two-hour duration balances sightseeing with water play and relaxation

Exploring the Fort Lauderdale Family Boat Cruise

A Tour with a Balance of Sightseeing and Water Play

This boat cruise offers a well-rounded experience in just about two hours, making it perfect for families or anyone who wants a taste of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways without committing to a full-day adventure. The tour departs from the beautiful Bahia Mar Beach area, a convenient starting point right on the Intracoastal Waterway. From here, the captain and crew take you through notable sights in style, with frequent stops for water fun.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Will See and Do

The first stop sets the tone — a lively sandbar where guests can jump in the water. The boat is equipped with inflatables and floats, which guests are encouraged to use. It’s a fantastic way to cool off and get some playful time in the water, especially with guides that keep the vibe energetic and fun. The reviews consistently praise the guides, with Roberta_L mentioning “Ross and Jenny were great! They made the ride interesting and enjoyable for our entire family!”

Next, the cruise enters the downtown Fort Lauderdale area, showcasing luxurious yachts and sprawling mansions. As the self-proclaimed yacht capital of the world, the city boasts some truly impressive vessels and waterfront estates. The guides share tidbits about notable yacht owners, adding an interesting layer of local color. Keri_M commented, “Harris and Adam were awesome. Funny and personable. Had a great time with the family.” The scenic cruise through the downtown highlights the city’s affluent lifestyle and provides plenty of photo opportunities.

The Port Everglades stop gives a behind-the-scenes look at a major shipping hub — a must-see for anyone curious about maritime activity in South Florida. You’ll get a perspective of cruise ships and cargo ships passing by, emphasizing how much water surrounds the city. With 160 miles of canals, the tour illustrates why Fort Lauderdale’s nickname is fitting — “Venice of America.”

Finally, the cruise passes the Las Olas Isles, where some of the world’s wealthiest live amid yachts, waterway mansions, and stunning scenery. The stories and sights here add a touch of glamour and local allure that many reviews find captivating. Denisse_M remarked, “Great tour, the experience was family friendly, we all laughed and enjoyed our trip.”

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The amenities are straightforward but thoughtful: floats, rafts, bottled water, restrooms, and a cooler for your own drinks. The bring-your-own food and drinks policy gives you flexibility, and the cooler onboard makes it easy to keep refreshments handy.

However, air-conditioned transportation isn’t included, so expect to be outdoors for the duration. Also, parking fees and gratuities aren’t covered, so plan those into your budget. The tour is suitable for most travelers — confirmation is quick, and most people can participate.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Reviewers repeatedly highlight the knowledgeable guides and the relaxing, fun atmosphere. Keri_M sums it up: “Had a great time with the family,” and Roberta_L emphasizes how the guides “made the ride interesting and enjoyable for our entire family.” The water stops and scenic routes are praised for being lively yet laid-back, perfect for a casual day out.

Practical Considerations for Your Trip

Since bookings are usually made about ten days in advance, it’s wise to plan early, especially during peak times. The two-hour duration is perfect for a quick but memorable outing — not too long to tire little ones but enough to see the highlights and enjoy some water fun. If your family loves yachts and waterfront scenery, this cruise is likely to be a hit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, engaging way to explore Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. Families with kids will appreciate the floats and water play, while couples or groups can enjoy the scenic views and lively guides. It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the city’s glitzy side without feeling rushed.

If you’re someone who enjoys a social, lively atmosphere with the chance to bring your own snacks and drinks, this trip hits the mark. It’s particularly recommended for those who want authentic Florida scenery mixed with some casual water fun on a camera-ready boat.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone seeking an affordable, family-friendly boat adventure in Fort Lauderdale, this tour delivers on many fronts. The scenic views, friendly guides, and flexibility to bring your own food make it a practical choice for a relaxed day on the water. It offers a wonderful blend of sightseeing, water play, and local color, making it especially suitable for families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking for a lighthearted experience.

While it may be brief, the trip’s informative guides and lively atmosphere ensure you’ll leave with good stories and plenty of photos. Plus, the price includes plenty of water toys and access to iconic sights, making it a good value for a couple of hours of fun.

If you’re after a casual, scenic, and enjoyable way to see Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront while keeping the experience light and relaxed, this cruise is a smart choice.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, balancing sightseeing and water fun.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks; the boat has coolers for your convenience.

Are there amenities onboard?
Yes, the boat has restrooms, seating areas, and coolers for your beverages.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. It’s described as family-friendly, with water inflatables and a lively but safe environment.

What sights will I see during the cruise?
You’ll pass by luxury yachts, mansions, Port Everglades, and the Las Olas Isles, with commentary from guides about notable areas and residents.

Is parking included?
No, parking fees are not included. Be sure to allocate time and budget for parking at or near Bahia Mar.

What should I wear?
Bring swimming suits, cover-ups, and sun protection — it’s outdoors and sunny most days.

This Fort Lauderdale boat cruise offers a fun, scenic, and flexible way to enjoy the city’s waterways, making it a memorable part of any Florida trip. Whether you’re with family, friends, or flying solo, you’ll likely find this tour a delightful and worthwhile experience.