Private Captained Boat Tour in Miami for up to 12 passengers

Miami’s skyline, cruise ships, and celebrity homes—all from the comfort of a private boat. For just $199 per group (up to 12 passengers), you get a flexible 2 to 4-hour journey that takes you from the Miami River to the open ocean. With a knowledgeable captain guiding your vessel, this tour offers a personalized peek into Miami’s vibrant waters, away from crowded public cruises.

What we love about this experience is the intimate nature of a private boat—you’re not stuck with strangers, and the captain can customize the ride to your interests. Plus, the panoramic views of Miami’s dazzling skyline and the chance to spot celebrity mansions are truly memorable. A second highlight is the inclusion of a floating water mat, making it easy for everyone to jump in and cool off, which adds a playful element to the trip.

One thing to consider: there’s a $50 marina fee, and captains charge an additional hourly fee of $50, so it’s worth factoring these costs into your budget. Also, since the tour is most often booked 22 days in advance, planning ahead is advisable if you want to lock in your preferred date.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, customized experience on the water—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a fun family outing, or just craving a different vantage point to see Miami’s sights.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: a boat just for your group with a captain at the helm.
• Stunning views: panoramic Miami skyline, Bayside Marketplace, and Fisher Island.
• Flexible durations: options from 2 to 4 hours, with longer cruises available.
• Family-friendly fun: includes a floating water mat and amenities like a cooler and restroom.
• Knowledgeable captains: reviews highlight friendly, attentive guides.
• Great value: at $199 for up to 12 people, it’s an affordable way to see Miami from the water.

Discovering Miami from the Water

Imagine gliding through the shimmering waters of Miami, with the city’s skyline stretching out before you in all its glory. This private boat tour offers a perfect escape from busy streets and crowded beaches, providing a private setting to soak in iconic sights, enjoy some fun in the ocean, and capture incredible photos.

You’ll begin your journey at Miami’s downtown waterfront, where your captain (most often someone like Orlando or Yoennys, based on reviews) will take the helm, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride. From there, the tour cruises past Bayside Marketplace, a lively hub of shops and restaurants, giving you a unique perspective of this bustling waterfront area.

Next, you’ll get a close-up look at Miami’s port, where cruise ships and cargo vessels create a lively maritime scene—impressive to see in action. Travelers have found this particularly fascinating, with one reviewer noting, “We got to see a lot of cool things and had plenty of room on this boat!”

Then, you’ll cruise along the shoreline, where Fisher Island mansions offer glimpses of luxury living. Many reviews mention how stunning the waterfront homes are, with some guests describing the views as “beautiful” and “enchanting.” It’s a chance to see Miami’s wealth and style without the crowds or paparazzi.

Finally, a highlight for many is the chance to swim and relax in the ocean, especially if you opt for longer trips that include the water mat. The boat is equipped with a cooler, water bottles, Bluetooth music, and a restroom, making your time on board comfortable and fun.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Miami Downtown
This is where the magic begins. The boat departs from the Miami River, offering a direct route to the city’s most striking features. The skyline views are best appreciated from the water, with towering skyscrapers like the Brickell City Centre and other modern marvels providing a dramatic backdrop. Reviews consistently praise the breathtaking vistas and mention how easy it is to snap memorable photos during this segment.

Stop 2: Miami Port
Next, your boat will cruise near the bustling Miami Cruise Port, where massive cruise ships are docked, and cargo vessels are busy at work. One reviewer said, “We got up close and personal with the port, watching the ships come and go,” indicating how engaging this stop can be. It offers a lively, maritime atmosphere that’s fun to watch, especially if you enjoy seeing ships of all sizes.

Stop 3: Bayside Marketplace
Nearing the city’s vibrant waterfront, your boat will glide past Bayside Marketplace, an area renowned for its lively shops, eateries, and street performers. Being on the water provides a different view of this popular destination, and many find it a lively and colorful scene. The tour offers a great opportunity for photos, with water as a natural reflector amplifying the city’s lights and hustle.

Stop 4: Fisher Island & Celebrity Homes
Arguably the most luxurious part of the tour, this section showcases Fisher Island’s mansions and renowned celebrity homes. The shoreline is dotted with impressive estates, and the marine scenery is simply stunning. Several reviews highlight how the tour gives a rare glimpse into Miami’s exclusive lifestyle, with one guest mentioning, “Marveling at the architecture of the mansions along the shoreline was a highlight for us.”

Optional Ocean Dip & Longer Cruises
For those who opt for an extended trip, the water mat becomes a key feature—perfect for swimming, relaxing, or just floating around. Many travelers appreciate this break from the cruise, making the experience feel more spontaneous and less structured.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included
– Cooler with ice and bottled water for refreshment
– Floating water mat for ocean dips
– Bluetooth music system for your playlist
– Restroom for convenience

Not Included
– A $50 marina fee payable at the start of the tour
– A $50/hour captain fee (this is a standard addition if you want a captain’s time beyond the base booking)

Understanding these costs upfront helps manage expectations and ensures there are no surprises once onboard. The overall pricing—$199 for the entire group—represents excellent value, especially considering the personalized experience and the amenities provided.

Practical Tips for Your Miami Boat Tour

• Book early: With an average booking lead time of about 3 weeks, it’s wise to reserve your spot in advance to secure your preferred date and captain.
• Factor in extra costs: Remember the marina fee and captain fee to avoid surprises.
• Bring your own drinks and snacks: Although a cooler is provided, you can bring along your favorite beverages or snacks.
• Dress comfortably: Swimwear, hats, sunglasses, and sunblock are essentials.
• Capture the moments: The panoramic views are perfect for photos, especially during sunset cruises.
• Consider your group: The boat accommodates up to 12 guests, making it ideal for small groups, families, or intimate celebrations.

The Authentic Experience: Real Travelers’ Perspectives

The reviews paint a clear picture: this tour is praised for friendly, attentive captains and stunning scenery. One review summed it up: “Yoennys was great, he made sure the ride was smooth and offered us water, making us constantly happy.” Another said, “Javier was very nice, safe, and helpful,” emphasizing the importance of good guidance.

Passengers love the flexibility—the ability to customize the trip duration, swim in the ocean, and enjoy the privacy of a boat just for their group. Many mention how clean and well-equipped the boat is, with amenities like Bluetooth speakers and restrooms making the experience comfortable.

The views of Miami’s skyline and celebrity homes are consistently highlighted as a standout. Several guests mention their delight at seeing famous mansions and the luxurious ambiance that only a boat can provide. The water mat and swimming options add a playful, spontaneous element that keeps everyone engaged.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, personalized way to explore Miami’s waters, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for families, small groups of friends, or couples celebrating something special. The ability to choose your cruise length and the inclusion of amenities like a water mat make it especially appealing to those seeking both sightseeing and fun.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, unobstructed views of Miami’s iconic skyline, luxurious waterfront homes, and lively waterfront neighborhoods will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also ideal for visitors wanting a more intimate, less commercialized experience compared to larger, public boat cruises.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

How much does the tour cost per group?
It’s $199 for up to 12 people, making it very affordable per person, especially for a private experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes a cooler with ice, bottled water, a floating water mat, Bluetooth music system, and restroom facilities onboard.

Are there additional fees I should know about?
Yes, there’s a $50 marina fee payable at the start, and an optional $50/hour captain fee if you want the captain to stay longer than the standard duration.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 4 hours, with longer options available for more cruising time and ocean dips.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring exclusivity and a tailored experience.

What are the meeting point and end location?
The tour departs from 243 NW S River Dr, Miami, FL 33128, and ends back there as well.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.

To sum it up, this private boat tour in Miami offers a wonderful blend of sightseeing, fun, and relaxation. Its balance of affordability, customization, and authentic views makes it an excellent choice for those wanting a memorable, intimate experience on the water. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a different perspective of Miami’s iconic sights, you’ll find this tour delivers genuine value and unforgettable moments.