Private tour for 12 people on a 40 ft Yacht, Ft Lauderdale bay

A Private Yacht Adventure in Fort Lauderdale: What You Need to Know

Starting at around $397 for up to 12 people, this private 40-foot yacht tour offers a flexible, personalized way to see Fort Lauderdale’s famous waterways. Departing from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center, you can choose between 2, 4, or 6-hour cruises, making it easy to fit into your schedule. What makes this trip stand out is the no fixed route approach—you’re in charge of where to go within the bay, whether that’s scenic mansions, lively sandbars, or tranquil lagoons. The crew handles the heavy lifting, and the boat is stocked with a cooler of ice and bottled water—BYOB is encouraged.

Two aspects we particularly like are the intimate setting of a private yacht, which feels more exclusive than a crowded tour boat, and the flexibility to customize your cruise. Whether you want a quick scenic ride or a full day of swimming and relaxing, this tour is designed to cater to your preferences. That said, a possible consideration is the additional cost for the captain, especially for longer trips—it’s not included in the base price but well worth it for a stress-free experience.

This experience suits travelers looking for a personal, relaxed day on the water—ideal for families, friends, or even small corporate groups wanting to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s waters away from the crowds. If you’re excited about boat cruising with the ability to tailor your route, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience: You decide where to go within Fort Lauderdale bay.
• Flexible durations: Options of 2, 4, or 6 hours meet different schedules.
• All-inclusive setup: Fuel, water, restrooms, and a cooler with ice are included.
• BYOB friendly: Bring your own drinks and snacks to elevate your trip.
• Excellent reviews for captainship: Guests consistently praise knowledgeable, friendly captains.
• Great for special occasions or family outings: The boat comfortably fits up to 12 guests.

Detailed Review: Why This Yacht Tour Stands Out

When considering a boat tour in Fort Lauderdale, what matters most often boils down to comfort, flexibility, and value. This private yacht experience ticks all those boxes, giving you the chance to craft your perfect day on the water. Starting at the bustling Bahia Mar Yachting Center, the vessel is a sleek Sundancer 40, which promises a stylish yet practical ride.

What’s it like onboard? Guests rave about the spacious sun deck and shaded seating, which allow everyone to find their comfort zone, whether basking in the sun or chilling under cover. The boat features a fully equipped cabin with a restroom and kitchen, making longer trips more comfortable and convenient. The Bluetooth sound system enables you to set your playlist, adding a personal touch to your cruise.

Routes and stops are not predetermined, giving you the freedom to explore Fort Lauderdale’s iconic waterways at your own pace. You might cruise past waterfront mansions and mega-yachts, the kind that make Instagram envy-worthy pictures, or anchor at a sandbar for swimming and relaxing. As one reviewer noted, “Andre did a great job! He was very knowledgeable, friendly, and professional,” often pointing out interesting sights along the way, adding educational value to the trip.

What makes this experience distinctive? Several guests have highlighted the personal attention they received, with Captain Andre and others going out of their way to make the day memorable. One guest shared, “We anchored at a sandbar for a while to swim and have fun. He had plenty of swim toys,” which underscores how the crew aims to make the trip engaging and fun.

Pricing and value are worth discussing. At $397.65 for a group of up to 12, you’re essentially paying around $33 per person if split evenly. That’s a lot more intimate and customizable than a typical group tour, which usually involves a large, crowded boat. The price includes fuel, landing, facility fees, and a water mat for four-hour trips and longer, ensuring no hidden costs. However, the captain fee is additional, especially for longer durations or peak days like July 4th or New Year’s Eve, which is an important consideration for planning.

The flexibility of choosing between 2, 4, or 6 hours means you can tailor your experience to your interests and schedule. For a quick taste of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, the 2-hour cruise offers a scenic glimpse. The 4- or 6-hour options allow for swimming, dining, or exploring secluded spots, making the experience more leisurely and comprehensive.

Reviews reveal a consistently high level of satisfaction. Many mention how the crew’s friendliness and knowledge enhanced their trip, with comments like “Andre was very friendly, he greeted us, and gave us all directions,” and “He wanted to make sure we had the best experience possible.” The ability to customize the cruise, combined with the attentive crew, makes this a reliable choice for those seeking a hassle-free day on the water.

What to bring? Besides your sense of adventure, bring sunscreen, swimwear, towels, snacks, and drinks. The cooler stocked with ice and bottled water simplifies packing, but bringing a few extra drinks or snacks can make the day even better. If you’re planning to swim, towels and sun protection are essential, especially since you’ll be exposed to the Florida sun.

Weather considerations are important. The provider has a flexible policy—if weather conditions are unsafe, you can reschedule or receive a refund if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. This gives peace of mind, as Florida weather can change quickly.

Accessibility and logistics are straightforward. The meeting point is centrally located, and parking is available but limited. The boat accommodates everyone regardless of age, and safety is a priority with all necessary life jackets provided. Service animals are permitted, which is helpful for travelers with disabilities.

Why This Tour Fits Your Vacation

If you’re craving a personalized exploration of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, this private yacht is an excellent choice. It’s especially appealing if you value flexibility and comfort over structured group tours. Families with children, groups of friends, or even small corporate outings will appreciate the relaxed ambiance and the ability to decide where to go and what to do.

The reviews point to a common theme: guests love the friendly captains, scenic stops, and the feeling of having the water all to themselves. Many enjoy anchoring at sandbars for swimming, which is a highlight for those who like water activities. The boat’s size and amenities strike a good balance—large enough for comfort but intimate enough to feel special.

This experience offers value by combining the expense of private boating with the benefits of a tailored, stress-free trip. The inclusion of fuel, water, and other fees in the upfront price makes it clear and predictable, which is a plus in planning your day.

The Sum Up

This private yacht experience in Fort Lauderdale offers a blend of luxury, flexibility, and intimacy that’s hard to match. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a family outing, or just want to see the city from a different perspective, it delivers a memorable day on the water. The ability to customize your route and stop at hidden spots makes it more than just a cruise—it’s your own private adventure.

For travelers who want quality over quantity, prefer personalized service, and enjoy the water, this tour hits the sweet spot. The consistently high reviews suggest you’ll be in good hands with friendly, knowledgeable captains and a well-equipped boat. Just remember to factor in the additional captain fee for longer trips, and you’ll be all set for a fantastic day.

If you’re keen on stunning views, swimming at sandbars, and having control of your schedule, this is an experience worth considering when visiting Fort Lauderdale.

FAQ

Is there parking available near the departure point? Yes, there is free parking, but it’s limited, so arriving early or carpooling is recommended.

Are there any age restrictions for the boat rental? No formal restrictions, but keep in mind that every person, regardless of age, counts as a passenger.

How many people can go on the boat? The boat comfortably fits up to 12 guests, and since it’s a private rental, only your party will be onboard.

Are lifejackets included? Yes, all necessary safety equipment, including lifejackets, is provided. If you plan to bring more children, extra child-sized jackets can be requested.

Are service animals allowed onboard? Yes, service animals are permitted—just be prepared to show identification upon arrival.

How early should I reserve? While last-minute bookings are possible if availability allows, it’s best to reserve at least a week in advance, especially for weekend trips.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably for the weather, with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Swimsuits and towels are recommended if you plan to swim.

What happens in bad weather? You can reschedule or cancel for a full refund more than 24 hours before your trip. If weather conditions are unsafe, the trip may be postponed or canceled with a refund.

This private yacht tour in Fort Lauderdale offers an excellent way to enjoy the city’s waterways with a personal touch. It’s ideal for those who want flexibility, comfort, and the chance to create their own water-based adventure while enjoying the beautiful scenery and the company of close friends or family.