Ft Lauderdale’s Boozy Adventure: Set Sail on the Bahama Mama

If you’re looking for a laid-back yet lively way to explore Fort Lauderdale, this tour might catch your eye. The Bahama Mama cruise offered by Pontoon Party is pitched as the biggest party boat in town, combining sightseeing with a festive, BYOB atmosphere. While I haven’t personally taken this cruise, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone wanting a mix of fun, water, and stunning views.

What I really like about this experience is its flexible vibe: it’s family-friendly but also clearly geared toward adults wanting to party. Plus, the boat’s capacity for up to 49 guests means you can gather a big group—perfect for celebrations or just a good old-fashioned waterborne bash. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is parking—extremely limited at the meeting point, so carpool or rideshare are your best bets. This trip is ideal if you enjoy social watersports and sightseeing with a lively twist.

If you’re someone who enjoys a casual, festive atmosphere and relaxing on the water while taking in some sights, this cruise could be right up your alley. It’s also a good fit for groups wanting a private experience, especially since you can reserve and pay later, providing some flexibility in your planning.

Key Points

• Spacious & Family Friendly: Accommodates up to 49 guests, making it great for groups.
• BYOB & Sandbar Parties: Brings a fun, relaxed party vibe to Fort Lauderdale’s waterways.
• Spectacular Views: Cruising past yachts, mansions, and beaches offers memorable scenery.
• Safety & Comfort: Coast Guard gear and full crew ensure a secure, enjoyable trip.
• Limited Parking: Be prepared to arrive early or consider alternative transportation.
• Price & Value: $1,700 for a 4-hour private group cruise offers a lively, customizable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail on Fort Lauderdale’s Waterways

This cruise is advertised as a “Boozy Sightseeing Bonanza”, which pretty much sums up what you get. The Bahama Mama, Pontoon Party’s latest vessel, is designed to give you a roomy, comfortable ride while ticking the boxes for fun and sightseeing.

The boat can hold up to 49 guests, so it’s ideal for larger groups—think friends celebrating a special event, family gatherings, or even a big party with friends. The 4-hour duration means you get plenty of time to soak in the views, enjoy drinks, and relax without feeling rushed. The cruise usually runs in the morning, afternoon, or evening, so you can pick a time that suits your schedule.

What makes this boat trip really shine are the stunning views you’ll enjoy from the water. Cruising past luxurious yachts and some impressive mansions, you’ll get a unique perspective on Fort Lauderdale’s famous waterfront. It’s a chance to see the city from a different angle, and the scenery is often described as quite spectacular.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package includes coolers, a captain and mate to handle the boat, and full Coast Guard safety gear, which should give you peace of mind. You can bring your own food and drinks—a major plus if you like to sip cocktails or have a picnic on the water. Keep in mind, the tour doesn’t include alcohol or food, so plan to bring your essentials.

Given that the cruise is BYOB, you’ll have the freedom to customize your drinks, making it perfect for groups who want to keep costs down or enjoy their favorite beverages. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a water-based adventure, after all.

Logistics and Meeting Point

The meeting point is at Cox Landing Boat Ramp. Parking there is described as extremely limited, so it’s worth planning ahead. Carpooling or ridesharing is recommended to avoid delays or stress on the day. This small detail can make or break your experience if you’re unprepared, so plan accordingly.

Since it’s a private group experience, you’ll need to reserve in advance and can opt to reserve now and pay later, giving some flexibility if your plans are uncertain. Cancellation is also flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the trip.

What to Bring and What Not to Bring

To make the most of your cruise, pack a towel for comfort, biodegradable sunscreen to protect your skin, and plenty of food and drinks. It’s also wise to bring litter bags to keep the boat tidy and avoid any issues with the environment.

There are some restrictions to keep the water safe and fun for everyone: no fireworks, explosive substances, or fire are allowed, and littering is a no-go. The crew emphasizes safety and respect for the water, which is reassuring.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is not suitable for children under 10 or 11 years old, and people with certain health considerations like altitude sickness, or those over 70, might want to consider other options. It’s primarily geared toward adults and groups looking for a lively, social experience rather than a family-focused outing.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic boat tour without the partying vibe, there are other options in Fort Lauderdale. But if you want a fun, party-friendly atmosphere with stunning water views, this cruise ticks those boxes.

Authentic Feedback from Others

One reviewer praised the cruise for its stunning views, pointing out how the boat passes “luxurious yachts and stunning mansions,” which makes the experience feel truly special. Another mentioned that the boat is safe and family-friendly, which is reassuring if you’re considering bringing a larger group or celebrating a special event.

The overall sentiment is that this cruise offers a memorable way to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s waterways with a lively, festive atmosphere. Just keep in mind the parking situation and bring your essentials for a smooth, enjoyable trip.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a bright, fun, and social water adventure in Fort Lauderdale, the Bahama Mama cruise sounds like a fantastic pick. It combines the best of sightseeing with party vibes, all on a spacious boat designed to accommodate large groups comfortably. The price might seem high at $1,700 for four hours, but considering it’s a private, customizable experience with plenty of scenic views, it’s a good value for groups wanting a lively, memorable outing.

It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or just gathering friends for a unique day on the water. Just remember to plan your transportation, pack your essentials, and set your expectations for a fun, festive, and scenic cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking at the meeting point limited?
Yes, parking at Cox Landing Boat Ramp is extremely limited. Arriving early or using a rideshare or carpool is highly recommended to avoid delays.

What’s included in the cruise?
The cruise includes coolers, a captain and mate, and full Coast Guard safety gear. You need to bring your own food and drinks.

Can I bring alcohol?
Absolutely. It’s a BYOB cruise, so you’re welcome to bring your own beverages to enjoy on board.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about four hours, which is enough time to enjoy scenery, relax, and have some drinks.

Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 or 11, and those over 70 or with certain health issues should consider other options.

What time of day does the cruise run?
It’s usually available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, so you can choose a time that fits your plans.

How do I cancel or change my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible—they also offer to reserve and pay later.

If you’re looking for a lively, scenic, and social way to experience Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, the Bahama Mama cruise might just be your next adventure. It’s a great choice if you’re after fun, sun, and spectacular views, all wrapped up in an easygoing party atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: