24 Ft Miami Bay: Private Boat, Gas Included , 8 people, Captained

A Personal Waterway Adventure in Miami: The 24 Ft Miami Bay Private Boat Experience

Imagine cruising through Miami’s shimmering waters aboard a sleek, private boat, with the sun on your face and the soundtrack of your favorite tunes playing through Bluetooth speakers. For around $170, you and up to seven friends or family members can rent this 24-foot vessel, captained and ready to whisk you away for a flexible, no-hassle day on the water. As we looked into this experience, two things stood out: the ability to craft your own itinerary—whether you want to explore mansions, go swimming, or just relax—and the fact that fuel is included, eliminating any surprise costs.

One potential consideration is that you’ll need to pay a captain’s fee if you want someone to navigate for you—typically $30-$35 per hour, depending on the season. This could add to the cost if you’re planning a longer trip. Still, for many, the chance to be your own boat boss with a friendly captain on call makes this a fantastic choice. This tour suits small groups or families who love personalized adventures, enjoy being on the water, and want the flexibility to set their own pace. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic Miami experience without the crowds or rigid schedules.

Key Points

Flexibility at the core: Create your own water itinerary with a captain available for hire, making each trip unique.
All-inclusive simplicity: Gas, a cooler with ice, and safety gear are included, so there are no hidden costs.
Great for small groups: Accommodates up to 8 people comfortably, making it an intimate way to explore Miami’s bay.
Highly rated experience: With a perfect 5-star rating from 252 reviews, this tour is consistently praised for its service and fun.
Easy access: Conveniently located at the Miami marina with parking options nearby.
Weather considerations: Rescheduling due to weather is straightforward, giving peace of mind for planning.

Breaking Down the Miami Bay Private Boat Experience

The Vessel and Its Conditions

This rental involves a 2017 Element 18 boat, powered by a Mercury 115 HP engine that can reach up to 35 mph—more than enough to enjoy a smooth cruise. It has been repowered in 2021, so you’re getting a relatively new, well-maintained boat. The vessel comfortably fits up to 8 people, making it ideal for families or small groups. Safety gear, including lifejackets, is provided, and the boat features Bluetooth stereo for your playlist, a cooler with ice for refreshments, and a bathroom at the marina.

The Start Point

The adventure begins at 2610 NW 18th Terrace, Miami, a well-accessible marina with parking options—some paid, some free—so getting there shouldn’t be a hassle. The trip to the open water from the marina takes about 10-15 minutes, thanks to the slow speed zones in the Miami River, giving you a chance to enjoy the cityscape along the way.

The Itinerary and Personalization

What makes this experience stand out is its flexibility. Once you’re on board, the day is yours to plan with or without a captain. If you choose to hire a captain (additional cost), they can show you Miami’s famous sights like Biscayne Bay mansions, star-spotting, or quiet coves for swimming. One reviewer praised their captain for “showing us all the sights and interacting with our 3-year-old”—a reminder that the guides can add a friendly, personalized touch.

If you opt to captain yourself, the straightforward instructions and confidence-building tips in reviews suggest you’ll be in good hands. Several guests appreciated how “clear instructions” and “simple driving” made them feel comfortable even with little boating experience.

Stops and Sights

Depending on your interests and the timing, you might anchor in a calm spot for swimming or relaxing. Although fishing isn’t permitted, many reviewers noted how they could bring their own drinks and enjoy a casual, leisurely trip. Some guests loved exploring Miami’s mansion-filled coastline, with reviews mentioning “introducing us to Miami and its mansions,” highlighting how close you can get to the glamorous side of Miami without the crowds.

For shorter trips, around 2 hours, expect about 20 minutes of water time to cool off or take photos. Longer rentals allow you to really explore—perhaps even plan a sunset cruise or a full day of water-based fun. The included gas means you don’t need to budget extra for fuel, keeping costs transparent.

The Experience and Reviews from Guests

Reviews consistently highlight the excellent service and friendly captains, particularly Yolepsy Maceira Romero, who “went above and beyond,” making the day memorable with interactions, photos, and drinks. Guests also appreciated how “instructions by staff were clear,” and that they felt “confident to captain their own boat,” which is ideal if you’re looking for a more active role in your water adventure.

A guest who booked last-minute found everything “went well,” citing the boat’s good condition and straightforward instructions. Another reviewer described it as a “nice trip,” emphasizing the ease of booking and smooth experience. Several reviews mentioned the value for money, especially for longer trips or larger groups who want to craft their own Miami water day.

Practical Details and Tips for Booking

This experience is available for around $170 per group, which covers most costs upfront—including fuel, ice, and safety gear. The captain fee varies—$35/hour from April to August, $30/hour at other times—but that’s an added cost you can choose to include. Booking on average 22 days in advance assures you a spot, especially during weekends or peak seasons.

If you’re planning a trip, consider the weather policy: bad weather can lead to rescheduling without penalty, which is a nice safety feature. Be sure to dress comfortably, wear sun protection, and bring swimsuits if you want to get in the water.

Conclusions: Who Will Love This?

This private boat rental is perfect for small groups or families who want a personalized Miami water experience. If you enjoy the idea of self-directed explorations alongside knowledgeable guides, this offers both options. The all-in-one pricing and included gas make it straightforward and budget-friendly, especially compared to larger, more commercial sightseeing cruises.

It’s especially suitable if you appreciate authentic views of Miami’s mansions, want to avoid crowds, and like the flexibility of choosing your own route and stops. The positive reviews and high ratings underline how many guests have found this to be a memorable, hassle-free way to enjoy Miami’s coastal beauty.

FAQ

• Is parking available near the departure point? Yes, there is parking at the marina, with some free options and some requiring a fee.
• Are there age restrictions? No, since you’re with a captain, all ages are welcome.
• How many people can go on the boat? Up to 8 people comfortably, making it suitable for families or small groups.
• Are lifejackets provided? Yes, necessary safety gear, including lifejackets, is included.
• Can I bring my own food or drinks? Absolutely, a cooler with ice is provided for your beverages and snacks.
• Are there any hidden fees? No, the price covers fuel and safety gear; the only additional fee is for the captain if you hire one.
• Can I go swimming? Possibly, depending on the route; always check with your captain beforehand.
• What happens if the weather is bad? You can reschedule without penalty. Always contact the operator for updates.
• How early should I book? It’s best to reserve at least a week in advance, especially for weekends.
• Can I use the boat for fishing or towing sports? No, fishing and towing activities are not permitted.

In the end, this Miami boat rental offers a flexible, well-rated way to see the city from the water with minimal fuss. Whether you want to relax, explore, or take memorable photos of Miami’s iconic sights, this experience caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Perfect for those who value authentic, personalized adventures in one of America’s most captivating coastal cities.