Top-Rated Boat Rental with Captain | 1 to 11 People

Thinking about exploring Miami from the water? This highly-rated boat rental experience offers a private, flexible way to see some of the city’s most famous sights, all while enjoying the comfort of a 28-foot yacht with your own captain. With a 5.0/5 rating from 16 reviews and a recommendation rate of 100%, it’s clear travelers love it. But what makes this tour stand out, and is it right for you? Let’s dig into the details.

We’re fans of how this trip combines sightseeing, relaxation, and insider knowledge — plus, the ability to bring your own food and drinks makes it feel more personalized. The chance to pass by celebrity homes on Star Island and relax on a floating mat in Miami’s warm waters are definite highlights. However, it’s worth noting that the cost is around $500 for a group, which might seem steep but is quite reasonable considering it’s a private experience with a captain.

This tour is especially well-suited for groups who want a tailored day on the water, whether with friends, family, or a special celebration. If you’re after a flexible, fun way to tick off multiple sights in one trip, and don’t mind handling your own food and drinks, this could be a perfect fit. It’s not designed for large groups or those seeking a guided, narrated tour, but rather for those who want a private, laid-back cruise with insider tips.

Key Points

• Private experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized outing.
• Flexible itinerary: You can choose how long you cruise, from 1 to 4 hours.
• Multiple island views: Pass by Star Island, Hibiscus Island, and Flagler Monument Island.
• Bring your own food: You can pack snacks, drinks, and even enjoy a swim on a floating mat.
• Expert captain: Guides share stories about the area and celebrity homes, enhancing the experience.
• Great for relaxing: Perfect for those wanting a laid-back day on the water with scenic views.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Biscayne Bay and the Islands

The tour kicks off in Biscayne Bay, where your captain will take you past some of Miami’s most famous islands. The stops include Star Island, renowned as a neighborhood of celebrity mansions, and Hibiscus Island, a posh residential enclave accessible via MacArthur Causeway. Expect to see some of the most opulent waterfront homes, thanks to the positive reviews praising the experience of passing by millionaire mansions along Collins Avenue.

One of the highlights is the Flagler Memorial Monument, built between 1920-21 to honor Henry Flagler. It’s located on a man-made island and is a neat historical point amid the luxurious scenery. The reviews note that the guide shares stories about these spots, adding context that makes the passing of these sights more engaging.

You’ll get to hear about who lives in these homes and some fascinating tidbits from your captain, making the scenery come alive. Several reviews mention how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are, sharing insights about the area’s history and celebrity residences without overwhelming.

Bayside Marketplace and the Ferris Wheel

After cruising past the islands, the tour heads towards Bayside Marketplace, a lively shopping and entertainment hub. Towering above the bay, the Skyviews Miami Ferris Wheel, at nearly 200 feet tall, offers panoramic views of Biscayne Bay, Downtown Miami, and the surrounding skyline. You’ll pass by this landmark, capturing some great photos from the water.

Relaxing in Miami’s Warm Waters

One of the big draws of this tour is the opportunity to stop and enjoy the water. Once anchored, the captain will set up a 10-foot floating mat, giving your group a chance to lounge, swim, or just soak up the sun. Many reviews highlight how much guests appreciated this part of the experience, with some even noting dolphin sightings — which, while not guaranteed, do seem to happen from time to time.

Miami Beach and Millionaire’s Row

The final segment of the tour takes you to Miami Beach, specifically the famous Millionaire’s Row along Collins Avenue. This stretch features the most luxurious waterfront homes, the epitome of Miami’s upscale lifestyle. The reviews rave about the chance to see these mansions from the water, and it’s a favorite for many because it feels exclusive and glamorous.

The entire itinerary is flexible—you can choose how long to spend at each stop, and the captain can tailor the route based on your interests or time constraints. The option to book from 1 to 4 hours allows for both quick visits and more leisurely explorations.

The Experience on the Water

The boat itself is a 28-foot vessel, comfortably accommodating up to 11 people. It’s described as spacious enough for groups of friends, families, or even small parties. The boat comes with a cooler and a floating mat, making it convenient to bring snacks and beverages.

Several reviews mention how friendly and attentive the captains are. For example, Captain Esteban, Josh, Thibault, and Oliver have all been praised for their professionalism and friendliness. They share stories, point out sights, and even help with the floating mat setup, making the experience feel relaxed and enjoyable.

Guests also love that they can bring their own food and drinks, turning the trip into a celebration or a chill day with friends. Some reviews mention taking the opportunity to swim and relax in the water, often with dolphins or other marine life spotted along the way.

Cost vs. Value

At $500 for a group of up to 10, many find this offers good value for a private boat experience. Compared to booking larger group tours or guided cruises, this private setup means you get the captain’s full attention and the flexibility to customize your trip.

The price covers the boat, landing and facility fees, and the floating mat — though you’ll need to pay separately for parking and the captain’s tip, which is around $40/hour if you want a dedicated guide on board. Considering the personalized service, flexible itinerary, and scenic stops, most reviews suggest it’s a worthwhile expense.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat rental is ideal if you’re looking for a personalized, relaxed day on the water in Miami. It’s perfect for groups of friends, families, or small celebrations who want to explore multiple sights with a knowledgeable captain. If you enjoy bringing your own food, lounging in the water, and passing by luxurious homes, you’ll love this experience.

However, it’s not meant for those seeking a guided commentary or large group tours. The focus here is on privacy, flexibility, and enjoying the scenery at your own pace. If you’re after an Instagram-worthy adventure with a mix of sightseeing and water fun, this tour checks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is this boat tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, making it ideal for personalized sightseeing or celebrations.

How long can I book the tour for?
You can choose from 1 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you want on the water and how many sights you want to see.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Absolutely. You’re encouraged to bring your own snacks, drinks, and even plan to swim or relax on the floating mat.

What sights will I see?
You’ll pass by Star Island, Hibiscus Island, Flagler Monument Island, and the Millionaire’s Row, with commentary from your captain about their history and celebrity residents.

Is parking included?
Parking fees are not included, so plan accordingly. The meeting point is at 518 West Ave, Miami Beach.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly and welcoming to children, as long as safety precautions are followed.

How much does the captain cost?
Captain tips are approximately $40 per hour, paid on the dock, and are not included in the initial price.

What’s the condition of the boat?
Reviews and descriptions suggest the boat is well-maintained, spacious, and comfortable for small groups.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the captain can tailor the stops based on your preferences and time constraints.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing, and don’t forget sunscreen and hats for sun protection.

Final Thoughts

This Miami boat tour offers a fantastic way to see the city’s most famous sights from the water in a private, laid-back setting. The combination of scenic island views, celebrity mansion spotting, and the chance to relax on a floating mat makes it appealing for many travelers. The highly positive reviews reflect consistent satisfaction with the guides, the flexibility, and the overall experience.

If you’re after a personalized, fun, and scenic day on Miami’s bay with friends or family, this tour provides a good balance of sightseeing, water fun, and insider stories. It’s especially suited for those who want to control their schedule, bring their own food, and enjoy the company of their group without the hustle of crowded tours.

For anyone looking to make the most of Miami’s water and enjoy a memorable, private trip, this boat rental with a captain deserves serious consideration.