Miami Private Boat Tour Review: Exploring the Magic City on the Water

If you’re looking to see Miami from a fresh perspective, a private boat tour might just be your best bet. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed offering and reviews suggest it’s an experience packed with stunning sights, luxury touches, and memorable moments. Whether celebrating a birthday, proposing, or simply seeking a unique way to enjoy Miami’s famous skyline, this tour promises an authentic water-based adventure.
What really draws us in are three standout features: the personalized nature of the private boat, the opportunity to explore iconic spots like Star Island and Fisher Island, and the inclusion of fun extras like swimming stops and floating mats. At the same time, considering the optional fuel surcharge and captain fee, it’s worth weighing the overall value—especially if you’re planning a large group. This experience appears best suited for those craving an exclusive, customizable outing with friends, family, or a special someone in Miami.
Good To Know

- Private, customizable experience tailored for groups up to 12 people
- Includes licensed captain and safety equipment for peace of mind
- Multiple stops for swimming, photos, and relaxation to enhance the trip
- Luxury amenities like champagne, floating mats, and underwater scooters
- Flexible duration from 2 to 4 hours, with options for sunset or special occasions
- Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the trip
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Setting the Scene: What You Can Expect from the Miami Private Boat Tour
This tour offers an intimate way to see Miami’s skyline and waterfront landmarks without the crowds or the noise of a group cruise. For travelers who value privacy and tailored experiences, renting this boat means you get to control the pace and choose what catches your eye. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply want a different view of the city, the boat becomes your floating sanctuary.
The departure point, at 961 NW 7th St in Miami, is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to access without the hassle of arranging extra transport. The boat itself is equipped with modern features—a Bluetooth music system for your favorite tunes, a cooler stocked with water, ice, and champagne, plus safety gear, restroom facilities, and even underwater scooters for the more adventurous.
The Itinerary: A Closer Look at Each Stop

Miami from the Water
The tour kicks off with a warm welcome on the water, offering an unbeatable vantage point of Miami’s skyline and waterfront. As the boat departs from the central Miami dock, the city’s iconic buildings come into view, and the feeling of being on the water immediately sets a relaxed tone.
Star Island and Celebrity Mansions
One of the highlights is a cruise past Star Island, home to Miami’s most famous residents. While the tour doesn’t specify particular estates, you’ll get a glimpse of the lavish mansions owned by celebrities, which adds a touch of glamor to your experience. The reviews mention guests loving the way the captain navigates close enough for great photo opportunities, making it ideal for capturing memories.
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Fisher Island, Flager Monument Island, and Sandbar
Next stops include Fisher Island, known for its exclusivity and luxury residences, and Flager Monument Island, which offers a peaceful floating spot for photos and relaxing breaks. The Sand Bar provides a shallow area for swimming and wading, perfect for cooling off in the clear Miami waters. Guests report that these stops are well-timed and allow for some fun in the sun, with plenty of space to unwind.
Bayside Ferris Wheel and Waterfront Views
A cruise past the Bayside Ferris Wheel gives a different perspective of downtown Miami’s vibrant waterfront. The panoramic views of the city, combined with the gentle sway of the boat, create an almost magical atmosphere, especially if you choose a sunset cruise.
Swimming, Photos, and Floating Fun
The floating mat is a popular addition—guests find it perfect for lounging or playing in the water. The tour also includes stops for swimming and photo sessions, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy Miami’s natural beauty and take Instagram-worthy shots. Guests have noted that the boat is equipped with underwater scooters, which add an adventurous twist for those wanting more than just a swim.
Additional Perks and Luxury Touches
The tour includes a fruit and cheese plate (for bookings of 4 hours or more), along with champagne, making it feel like a truly indulgent experience. The Bluetooth music system allows you to personalize your playlist, enhancing the relaxed, festive vibe. Safety equipment and restrooms on board add to the comfort and security of your journey.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration and Pricing
Priced at $199 per group (up to 12 people), this experience offers considerable value for a private, customizable adventure. The typical duration ranges from 2 to 4 hours, giving you flexibility depending on your schedule and budget.
What’s Included and What’s Extra
Included in the price are the licensed captain, safety gear, cooler with water and ice, floating mat, fruit and cheese plate (for longer bookings), and alcoholic beverages like champagne. Optional extras such as fuel surcharge ($50) and captain’s hourly fee ($50/hour paid on the dock) are additional costs to consider if you want a fully personalized or extended experience.
Meeting Point and Accessibility
The tour begins at the specified Miami address—close to public transportation—and the activity ends back at this same point. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, making it accessible to many.
Cancellation Policy
The good news is that you can cancel free of charge if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is helpful if plans change unexpectedly.
Authentic Guest Insights and Additional Tips

While reviews are limited, some details stand out. Guests appreciate the friendly and professional captain, often mentioning how the boat feels spacious and well-equipped. The underwater scooter is noted as a fun addition, especially for those who enjoy a bit of underwater exploration. Several users also highlight the relaxing atmosphere and the fact that the boat is perfect for photo shoots, thanks to its scenic stops and close-up views of Miami’s most luxurious homes.
A common tip is to bring your own music playlist for the Bluetooth system, making the experience even more personalized. Also, considering the optional captain fee, it’s useful to clarify costs beforehand to avoid surprises.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This private boat tour is a great pick for groups seeking exclusivity and a touch of luxury. It’s ideal for celebrations, romantic getaways, or a fun day out with friends. The flexible duration and customizable stops allow you to tailor the experience to your preferences, adding genuine value beyond a standard cruise.
For travelers who love water-based adventures but want a more intimate setting than large group tours, this option provides a private, comfortable, and scenic way to explore Miami. The inclusion of swimming, photo stops, and luxury extras makes it a versatile choice—perfect for making meaningful memories or simply relaxing in style.
If you’re after a straightforward, flexible, and fun way to see Miami’s skyline and waterfront, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to plan for the additional costs and book in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but alcohol is not allowed for children under 21. The boat is equipped with safety gear and restrooms, making it family-friendly.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on your booking and preferences.
What is included in the price?
Your package includes a licensed captain, safety equipment, Bluetooth music, cooler with water and ice, floating mat, fruit and cheese plate (for longer bookings), and alcoholic beverages like champagne.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a fuel surcharge of $50 and a captain fee of $50/hour (paid on the dock). These are optional but should be considered for longer or more personalized trips.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 961 NW 7th St, Miami, which is accessible by public transportation. The tour ends back at the same location.
Can I customize the experience?
Yes, the tour offers hour-by-hour rentals and custom options, perfect for special occasions like birthdays, proposals, or sunset cruises.
Is this activity refundable?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.
Is alcohol included?
Yes, one bottle of champagne and other beverages are included in the package.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, camera, and perhaps a playlist for the Bluetooth system. The boat supplies floating mats, but you might want your own towels or waterproof accessories.
To sum it up, this Miami private boat tour offers a flexible, luxurious way to see the city’s waterfront highlights in a relaxed, exclusive setting. It’s perfect for those wanting a personalized experience with friends, family, or a loved one, and for anyone looking to add a touch of glamour to their Miami visit. Just plan ahead for the extra costs, and you’ll be set for a memorable day on the water.
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