Miami Orlando on High Speed train and Millionaire Boat Tour

Traveling from Orlando to Miami in a single day might sound ambitious, but this tour offers a combination of train travel, boat cruising, and open-air bus rides that promise a snapshot of Miami’s vibrant neighborhoods. While the concept is appealing — especially for those craving a quick taste of the Magic City — the experience doesn’t quite live up to expectations for everyone.

What we like about this tour is the smooth, comfortable train ride that gets you from Orlando to Miami without the hassle of driving, the scenic boat cruise past millionaire homes and iconic islands, and the flexible double-decker bus that offers a casual way to explore Miami’s highlights. Plus, the chance to soak in Miami’s lively atmosphere without staying overnight can be a real win for short-term visitors.

However, some travelers have found the experience disappointing in terms of organization and value, especially considering the price. The itinerary can feel rushed, and some have mentioned that the tour doesn’t quite deliver on what it promises. Still, if you’re after a whirlwind day of sightseeing and don’t mind the crowds or a less personalized experience, this trip might suit your needs.

This tour is best suited for those who want an affordable, all-in-one day trip from Orlando to Miami but are prepared for a busy schedule and some possible limitations in depth. If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-paced exploration, this may not be the perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Convenient round-trip train transfer provides a comfortable and scenic journey.
• Multiple popular stops and activities in Miami, including a boat cruise and open-air bus tour.
• Flexible hop-on, hop-off bus allows you to explore neighborhoods at your own pace.
• Cost-effective way to see Miami in a day, but may feel rushed.
• Mixed reviews highlight concerns about organization, value, and overall experience.
• No included lunch, so plan to bring snacks or eat in Miami.

The Journey Begins: Orlando to Miami by Brightline

Starting at the Brightline Orlando Station, the train ride to Miami takes approximately 2.5 hours each way. The trains are described as sleek and comfy, offering a relaxing way to travel without the stress of driving. The scenic views during the ride are a plus, with some travelers enjoying the chance to unwind before their Miami adventures.

While the train provides a smooth journey, some reviews hint at the experience feeling somewhat rushed or disorganized once you arrive. The round-trip ticket is included in the $222 price, which adds to the sense of convenience, especially for travelers who prefer avoiding rental cars or long drives.

Miami Highlights: Bayside Marketplace and Biscayne Bay Cruise

Once in Miami, the first stop is Bayside Marketplace — a busy mall environment with shops and restaurants. Here, you hop aboard a 90-minute Miami Skyline cruise that showcases Miami’s most expensive homes and landmarks along Biscayne Bay. The boat ride is generally regarded as a highlight, offering close-up views of Millionaire’s Row and the beautiful waterfront.

One reviewer noted that this cruise provides a good opportunity for photos and a glimpse into Miami’s luxurious waterfront lifestyle. However, some felt the cruise could be a bit rushed, and it’s a fairly quick overview rather than an in-depth tour of Miami’s history or culture.

Exploring Miami’s Neighborhoods: Double-Decker Bus Ride

After the cruise, the bus takes you through South Beach, passing along Collins Avenue where you see iconic shops, restaurants, and the famous Lincoln Road. With about five hours allocated, this part of the tour offers some flexibility for different activities, whether hopping off to try local food or just enjoying the sights from the bus.

The open-air double-decker bus provides a casual, unhurried way to see Miami’s vibrant neighborhoods. Travelers can hop off at key points of interest, making it an interactive experience. Still, some reviews point out that the bus stops are limited, and the overall organization might not be perfect — with some feeling they didn’t get enough time at each stop.

Food and Free Time in Miami

While the tour includes a lot of sightseeing, meals are not covered. Miami’s food scene is diverse and lively, so many choose to indulge in Cuban cuisine in Little Havana or seafood by the waterfront. This extra layer of exploration can significantly enhance your day, but it also means planning ahead for lunch costs and timings.

Returning to Orlando

As the day winds down, you’ll board the Brightline train back to Orlando, with the journey offering a chance to reflect on your Miami whirlwind. Although the schedule is packed, some travelers find the return trip a nice way to relax after the busy day.

Honest Feedback: What Travelers Are Saying

One of the most common themes in reviews is disappointment. A reviewer named Maureen called the tour “terrible,” criticizing the organization and feeling it didn’t meet the outlined promises. She mentions that the itinerary was confusing, and the double-decker bus experience was not as expected.

Another traveler mentioned that the tour was “not worth the $222”, emphasizing that the overall experience felt rushed and somewhat disorganized. They also pointed out that the tour’s length — 12 hours — felt very long given the limited depth and engagement of each activity.

In contrast, some travelers appreciated the good value for money, especially if they’re looking for a comprehensive day trip without additional costs. The convenience of the train and the scenic boat cruise are seen as positives, even if the overall experience doesn’t blow everyone away.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Miami day trip from Orlando offers a convenient, budget-friendly way to see some key highlights of Miami in one day. The combination of train travel, a boat tour of luxury homes, and a hop-on-hop-off bus creates a varied experience that appeals to travelers eager for a quick Miami fix.

However, it’s important to be prepared for a schedule that can feel tight and some degree of disorganization, especially if expectations aren’t managed carefully. The experience is best suited for those who value good value for money and don’t mind a busy, somewhat rushed itinerary. It’s not ideal if you’re seeking a deep dive into Miami’s cultural scene or a leisurely pace.

In the end, this tour offers a snapshot rather than a comprehensive exploration — but if you’re after an easy, all-in-one way to cross Miami off your bucket list, it might just do the trick.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including those with service animals, but the schedule is quite packed and may be tiring for some.

How long is the train ride each way?
The train ride from Orlando to Miami takes approximately 2.5 hours each way.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or eat in Miami.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a round-trip Brightline train ticket and a 90-minute Biscayne Bay cruise.

Can I hop on and off the bus?
Yes, the double-decker bus is open-air and designed for hopping on and off at different stops, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.

What are the main stops?
The key stops are Bayside Marketplace for the cruise and Miami Beach for exploring neighborhoods like South Beach and Lincoln Road.

Is the tour worth the price?
While some appreciate the convenience and value, others feel it’s not worth the high cost given the organizational issues and limited in-depth experience.

What do reviewers say about the experience?
Many found the overall experience disappointing, citing poor organization and feeling the tour was not as engaging or well-run as expected.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts around 12 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

Is this tour good for a first-time Miami visitor?
Yes, if you want a quick overview and don’t mind the busy schedule, it can be a good introduction. However, for a more relaxed, immersive experience, consider other options.

To sum it up, this Miami day trip from Orlando offers a straightforward way to tick off the city’s highlights, especially if you prioritize convenience and value. Be prepared for a packed schedule, some organizational quirks, and the need to manage expectations. If you’re okay with a somewhat rushed day and want to see Miami’s iconic sights without breaking the bank, this tour could be a good fit. But if you prefer a leisurely exploration or detailed cultural insights, you might want to look elsewhere.