Evening Boat Cruise through Ft Lauderdale: Private to 12ppl

Planning a boat cruise in Fort Lauderdale? This private evening trip offers an intimate way to see the city’s scenic waterways, yachts, and mansions while enjoying a beautiful sunset. With just your group of up to 12 people, this experience promises a relaxed, personalized ride — perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just soaking in the Florida vibe.

What really draws us in are the flexibility of routes, the ability to bring your own food and drinks, and the knowledgeable captains who make the journey extra memorable. Plus, the best views in town from the water ensure you’ll leave with plenty of photos and stories. The only thing to consider: the captain’s fee isn’t included in the initial price, so budget a little extra for that. This cruise is ideal for groups seeking a laid-back, scenic escape with a touch of luxury.

Good To Know

• Private, intimate experience for up to 12 guests.
• Bring your own food and drinks for a personalized picnic on the water.
• Flexible routes allow stops at waterfront bars or restaurants.
• Skilled captains make the trip smooth, fun, and friendly.
• Stunning water views of yachts, mansions, downtown, and sunsets.
• Cost includes fuel, bottled water, and a knowledgeable captain, with optional add-on fees.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What is the Fort Lauderdale Private Boat Cruise?

This is a 3-hour private boat cruise designed for small groups — up to 12 people — looking for a relaxed, scenic experience. Whether you’re visiting for a special celebration, a romantic evening, or just want to unwind on the water, this cruise ticks all those boxes.

The boats are equipped with blue night lighting and Bluetooth sound systems, so you can set the mood with your playlist. The flexible routing means you can opt for a straightforward cruise or choose stops at waterfront bars or restaurants — depending on your group’s vibe. The boats pick up from local Airbnbs and restaurants on the water, which adds a layer of convenience that many travelers appreciate.

The Experience: What to Expect

Once you’ve booked your trip, your captain will meet you at the dock roughly 10 minutes before departure. If you’re arriving by car, be prepared for limited parking options — Uber or rideshare are recommended. The boats are designed for comfort, with seating for everyone and ambient blue lighting to enhance the sunset atmosphere.

You have the freedom to bring your own food and drinks (BYOB), making this a personalized floating picnic. Imagine sipping wine or craft beers while watching the sun dip below the horizon, illuminating yachts and waterfront mansions. The captain — described as “awesome and skilled” by past guests — will navigate the route, ensuring safe and enjoyable sailing.

During the cruise, you’ll see Fort Lauderdale’s iconic yachts, luxurious mansions, and downtown skyline from a unique vantage point. The flexible routes mean you might stop at waterfront bars or restaurants along the way, turning this into a lively, social experience if desired.

Why the Captains Make a Difference

Guests praise the captains’ skill and friendliness. One reviewer called Captain Ross “amazing,” highlighting how this personal touch elevated their trip. Another said, “The captain was excellent, the tour was awesome.” It’s clear that beyond just steering the boat, these captains foster a vibe of camaraderie and fun, which makes the experience feel more like hanging out with friends than a typical tour.

The Views and Stops

The highlight is undoubtedly the stunning sunset over Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. You’ll watch the sky change color above a backdrop of shimmering yachts and lavish mansions, making for incredible photos. The boat’s Bluetooth sound system allows you to play your favorite tunes, further enhancing the experience.

You can choose to stop at waterfront bars or restaurants, adding variety and a chance to stretch your legs or grab a quick snack. This flexibility is especially valuable if you prefer a more social, stop-and-go cruise rather than a straight ride.

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Price and Value

At $510 for a group of up to 12, this cruise offers good value, considering the exclusivity and personalized nature of the experience. The price covers fuel, tax, and bottled water, so there are no hidden charges there. The main additional expense is the captain’s fee of $40/hour, payable upon arrival, which is a legal requirement.

Compared to other group outings, this private cruise feels like a worthwhile splurge for special occasions or a memorable night out. You’re paying for intimacy, flexibility, and the chance to enjoy Fort Lauderdale from a completely new perspective.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as private boat slots can fill quickly.
• Remember that parking is limited; Uber or rideshare is the best option.
• Consider your preferred route and stops when booking — the captain is flexible.
• Be prepared to pay the captain’s fee upon arrival — typically $40/hr.
• Bring plenty of food and drinks, as this is a BYOB experience.
• Consider the weather — clear evenings make for the best sunset views.
• The cruise is not suitable for smokers or those with broken glass containers, per safety regulations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat cruise is perfect for small groups wanting an exclusive, relaxed way to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. It’s ideal for celebrations, romantic evenings, or just a fun night with friends. If you appreciate flexible itineraries, stunning sunset views, and the option to customize your experience with stops and music, you’ll love this trip. It’s also a good pick for travelers seeking a high-quality, intimate alternative to crowded boat tours.

The Sum Up

This Fort Lauderdale private boat cruise offers a fantastic way to see the city’s waters in a relaxed, personalized setting. The knowledgeable captains, beautiful sunset views, and flexible routing make it ideal for small groups seeking a memorable experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a peaceful evening on the water, this trip combines comfort, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury.

The value is clear: for $510, you get a private, scenic tour with the freedom to customize your outing, plus the chance to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s iconic waters from a viewpoint few get to experience. The trip’s emphasis on friendly guides, excellent views, and BYOB freedom means you’ll leave with great memories — and plenty of photos.

If you’re after a calm, scenic, personalized experience that feels both luxurious and laid-back, this cruise is a winner. It caters well to those who love beautiful water views, flexible plans, and a friendly crew to guide the way.

FAQs

Can I bring my own food and drinks? Yes, this cruise is BYOB, so you can bring your own food and drinks to customize your experience.

How many people can fit on the boat? The boats comfortably seat up to 12 guests, making it ideal for small, private groups.

Is the price all-inclusive? The price covers fuel, tax, and bottled water. The captain’s fee of $40/hour is paid upon arrival.

Are stops at restaurants or bars possible? Yes, flexible routes include stops at waterfront bars or restaurants if you wish.

What should I wear? Dress casually, comfortably, and consider bringing layers for cooler evening temperatures.

How do I pay the captain’s fee? The captain fee is paid directly to the captain via Zell, Venmo, or cash upon arrival.

Are there any restrictions? Smoking and glass objects are not allowed on the boat for safety reasons.

What time of day are trips available? Usually in the afternoon or evening, with sunset cruises being particularly popular.

This private boat cruise in Fort Lauderdale delivers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, personalized service, and flexible plans — perfect for making your waterway experience truly special.

You can check if your dates are available here: