Miami: Private Star island, Miami Skyline & Miami River Tour

If you’re looking to soak up Miami’s iconic sights from the water, this private boat tour offers a pretty compelling way to do it. It’s designed for small groups, offering the chance to cruise along the river, enjoy a swim, and check out the most exclusive neighborhoods—all in just two hours. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this experience promises a taste of Miami’s glamour with a relaxed, personalized vibe.

What we really like about this tour is how effortlessly it combines sightseeing with leisure. You get to see the Miami skyline against that unmistakable turquoise backdrop, plus float around Star Island—home to some seriously extravagant mansions. And with a private boat, there’s a lot of flexibility to customize your time on the water. That being said, it’s not a full-day adventure, so if you’re eager to explore every corner of Miami by boat, this might feel a bit brief.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—at $299 for the entire group, it’s quite reasonable, but remember there are extra fees for the captain and gas. If you’re traveling with a big group or love personalized experiences, this setup works really well. It’s particularly suited for those who want a relaxed, intimate vibe without the crowds, and it’s a nice choice for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with the chance to cool off in the water.

Key Points

• Private boat means personalized service and flexibility.
• You’ll see Miami’s skyline and waterfront homes from an exclusive water perspective.
• The swim break adds a fun, refreshing element to the tour.
• The tour lasts about 2 hours, perfect for a quick yet immersive experience.
• Cost-effective for small groups, with shared expenses.
• Ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of luxury.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Miami Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overview

Your adventure kicks off at a private marina in Miami. This eliminates lines and waiting, so from the moment you arrive, the vibe is one of exclusivity and comfort. The boat itself is described as brand new, which adds to the sense of safety and luxury. With a private setup, you won’t be stuck with strangers, making it perfect if you’re celebrating something special or just prefer a more intimate experience.

The Route and Sights

Cruising Along the Miami River

As you set off, you’ll glide past some of Miami’s finest restaurants and waterfront properties. The river cruise offers a chance to see the city’s lively side—boats zipping by, luxury homes, and the overall energy of Miami from a unique vantage point. The guide, available in both English and Spanish, adds context and insights, making the journey both informative and engaging.

Miami Skyline Views

Once you leave the river, the fun moves to the open sea where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Miami’s skyline. The water acts as a mirror, reflecting towering skyscrapers and colorful sunsets, especially if you’re touring in the late afternoon or evening. It’s a great moment to snap photos or just soak in the scene.

Star Island and the Home Tour

The highlight for many is the visit to Star Island, accessible only by boat. You’ll have time to swim, relax, or walk along the sandy beaches. The island is renowned for its multi-million dollar homes—some of which you might recognize from celebrity sightings or popular media. This brief island stop lets you escape the busy city and enjoy some downtime in a stunning setting.

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The Home Views

After the swim, the boat cruises around Star Island, revealing the most exclusive neighborhood of Miami. The views of grand mansions, lush gardens, and private docks are impressive, giving you a sense of Miami’s luxurious side. The guides often comment on notable properties, adding a layer of storytelling to the sightseeing.

Return and Reflection

After this, it’s back to the marina. The overall experience is relaxed and flexible, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or just enjoy the scenery. The reviews confirm that safety and comfort are priorities, with multiple travelers mentioning how helpful and friendly the crew is.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’re all set with the private boat, ice and water, and a swim break—perfect for staying refreshed. Extra costs include a captain fee ($50/hour) and a gas fee ($25/hour), so it’s worth factoring these into your budget. They’re quite standard for private charters, and for the price, many feel it’s a good deal considering the personalized nature of the trip.

Real Traveler Feedback

Feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Michael from the US called it an “excellent time with family,” praising the new boat and the helpful crew. He also appreciated the safety and the fun atmosphere created by Captain Sal. Lorena found the entire experience “phenomenal,” giving a perfect score, and others echoed these sentiments, describing it as “amazing” and “seamless.”

Why the Positive Feedback?

• The knowledgeable guides add a lot of value, making sure you don’t just cruise blindly but learn about the sights.
• The stunning views, especially of Miami’s skyline and luxury homes, are consistently praised.
• The personalized nature of a private tour is a major plus, especially compared to larger, more crowded boat excursions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and want to combine sightseeing with some leisure. It’s ideal for small groups or families looking for an exclusive, fun way to see Miami from the water without the hassle of larger tours. If you’re interested in seeing luxury homes or just want a beautiful boat ride, this is a solid choice.

Downsides or Considerations

Keep in mind that at $299 per group, the price is reasonable, but additional costs (captain and gas fees) can add up, especially if you’re a larger group. The duration—just two hours—is perfect for a quick outing but may leave those wanting more wanting to extend the experience.

For those seeking a full-day boat adventure or multiple island visits, this tour might feel somewhat limited. Also, since it’s mostly a scenic ride with some swimming, it’s not suitable if you’re looking for a more active or adventure-focused water excursion.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and luxurious water experience in Miami, this private boat tour hits many of the right notes. It’s a great way to see the city’s skyline, get a peek into the exclusive neighborhood of Star Island, and enjoy a swim in a stunning setting—all in a short, manageable time frame.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and the comfort of a private boat makes this a popular choice among travelers who want to avoid big crowds and enjoy a more tailored experience. While it’s not the cheapest option, many find the price justified by the quality and intimacy of the tour.

If you’re traveling with a small group or family and want a relaxed, scenic adventure with a touch of luxury, this tour could be just what you need to make your Miami visit memorable.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts about 2 hours, making it a perfect short escape on the water.

• Is the boat private?
  Yes, the boat is reserved for your group only, offering a personalized experience.

• What’s included in the price?
  The private boat, swim break, ice, and water are included. Extra fees for the captain and gas apply.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is there a guide on board?
  Yes, the tour includes a live guide who speaks English and Spanish.

• What should I bring?
  You might want to bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel for the swim break.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  While not explicitly mentioned, the relaxed nature and swim break suggest it’s suitable for families comfortable with boat trips.

• What makes this tour stand out?
  The combination of private service, stunning water views, and access to exclusive islands.

• Are there any additional costs?
  Yes, the captain fee and gas fee are extra, $50/hour and $25/hour respectively.

• What is the best time to do this tour?
  Usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening, so you can pick a time that suits your schedule and preferred lighting for photos.

This private boat tour offers a relaxed yet scenic Miami experience—perfect for those wanting to see the city from its most glamorous side in a laid-back setting. It’s a lovely way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a sunny day on the water with friends or family.

You can check availability for your dates here: