Full Day Combo: Everglades, 90 Min Boat, Double Decker Tour

Introducing the Full Day Combo: Everglades, 90 Min Boat, Double Decker Tour

If you’re looking to get a broad taste of what Miami has to offer in a single day, this Full Day Combo might catch your eye. It offers a mix of nature, city sights, and relaxing beach time—all wrapped into one package. While it might not be the most seamless experience out there, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a taste of everything without multiple bookings.

We like that this tour includes an iconic airboat ride in the Everglades—a quintessential Florida experience—and a scenic boat cruise along Biscayne Bay, where you’ll spot some of Miami’s most lavish homes. The double-decker bus tour covering neighborhoods like Little Havana, Art Deco districts, and South Beach adds a lively, cultural element that rounds out the day.

That said, a potential snag is the length and pace of the day. It can stretch out quite long, especially if you hit traffic or encounter unforeseen delays, like a drawbridge incident that added over an hour to one reviewer’s experience. So, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a busy schedule and don’t mind a full, sometimes rushed, itinerary.

Overall, if you’re after a rundown of Miami—from wild Everglades to glitzy Miami skyline—this might work well. It’s particularly handy for travelers with limited time who want a quick, multi-faceted introduction, but keep in mind it’s not perfect for those seeking a leisurely day.

Key Points

• Diverse activities: Combines nature, boat sightseeing, and city tour in one package.
• Guided experiences: Knowledgeable guides add value, especially during wildlife and city sightseeing.
• Long day: The itinerary runs about 2 days, so expect a full, sometimes tiring schedule.
• Variable timing: Unpredictable delays, like traffic or drawbridge issues, can affect your plans.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for guests aged 2 and up, but note restrictions on airboat participation.
• Value for the price: At $169.99, it offers a lot, but the experience depends on your expectations for busy, guided days.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Everglades Airboat Ride: Wild Encounters and Unique Ecosystems

The tour kicks off with a visit to Sawgrass Recreation Park for a 30-minute airboat ride through the Everglades. If you’re into wildlife, this part can be quite memorable. The chance to see crocodiles, teeming birdlife, and the vast, open marshes makes it a quintessential Floridian adventure.

From what we gather, guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about the ecosystem and wildlife. One traveler noted that “the tour was a wonderful experience,” although delays due to traffic and a drawbridge incident extended the day. The airboats are open-air, so be prepared for minimal splashing unless it’s raining, and remember, the ride maxes out at about 35-40 mph—fast enough to thrill but not overwhelming.

While the wildlife viewing is the star here, some might find the 30-minute ride just enough, especially if they’re not comfortable on boats or prefer less exposure to the sun. Still, the chance to hold an alligator during educational shows can be a highlight, depending on timing and availability.

Biscayne Bay Boat Cruise: Glamorous Homes and Iconic Views

After the wild side, the tour shifts gears to a 90-minute sightseeing cruise from Bayside Marketplace. This part is all about stunning waterfront views—think luxury mansions, famous homes, and the Miami skyline. You’ll cruise past areas like Hibiscus Island, Palm Island, and the Venetian Islands, with guides pointing out notable landmarks and celebrity homes.

Travelers mention the “amazing views” and the chance to see Miami from the water, which gives a different perspective than land-based tours. The boats have both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can choose to stay in the shade or soak up the sun. Keep in mind that seating is first-come, first-serve—getting there early helps secure a good spot. Cash bars onboard offer drinks and snacks, so you can unwind with a cold beverage while soaking in the scenery.

Downtown Miami and South Beach on a Double-Decker Bus

The highlight for many is the double-decker bus tour, which lasts about an hour and a half. This part covers a broad swath of Miami neighborhoods, including Little Havana, Art Deco District, Wynwood Walls, Downtown, Miami Beach, and South Beach. The open-top bus makes it easy to snap photos and get a feel for the city’s diverse vibe.

Guides tend to be friendly and knowledgeable, sharing tidbits about Miami’s history and culture. If you’re interested in architecture or street art, you’ll appreciate passing through Wynwood, with its vibrant murals. The bus stops at key neighborhoods, but the duration is short, so it’s more of an overview than an in-depth exploration.

Relaxing on Miami Beach

To balance the busy day, the tour includes a day at Miami Beach with chairs and umbrellas provided. You’ll get a bit of time to relax, soak up the sun, or take a dip in the ocean. For families or those wanting a breather, this is a good chance to unwind before the day wraps up.

However, because the entire itinerary is packed, you might find your beach time limited, especially if the schedule runs longer than expected. Still, having a dedicated spot to relax is a bonus, and the beach chairs are included, which adds value.

Logistics and Practicalities

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour starts at 305 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach at 9:15 am. Arriving at least 30 minutes early helps with easy check-in and finding a good spot on the boat or bus. The activity is designed for roughly a 2-day experience, but it’s all packed into just one long day.

Transportation and Group Size

With a maximum of 49 guests, the group sizes are moderate—small enough for a comfortable experience but large enough to keep the energy lively. The tour offers mobile tickets, which makes check-in smooth. Parking is available nearby but may cost extra, so plan ahead.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The tour is family-friendly for travelers aged 2 and over, but note that airboat rides are not wheelchair accessible. It’s also not recommended for anyone with back or neck issues or for pregnant guests, given the nature of the airboat ride. Pets and service animals aren’t allowed due to safety concerns with alligators swimming close to the boat.

What to Bring and Wear

Bring a valid ID, camera, and sun protection. Since the tour involves outdoor activities, comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended. The day’s pace means packing lightly is best, and no outside food or drinks are permitted on the boat or bus.

Cost and Value

At $169.99 per person, you’re paying for a comprehensive day of sightseeing and wildlife experiences. While it is on the pricier side, it bundles multiple activities, saving you the hassle of booking separately. Keep in mind, lunch isn’t included, but there are quick snack options and restaurants at Bayside Marketplace.

How Authentic and Enjoyable Is It?

From reviews, we see mixed feelings about the overall experience. One traveler mentioned delays caused by traffic and a drawbridge that extended the day significantly. While delays are often outside the provider’s control, they can impact your enjoyment if you’re expecting a smooth, punctual experience.

On the plus side, guides are described as knowledgeable, making wildlife and city commentary engaging and informative. The scenic views during the boat cruises are generally praised, with many appreciating the opportunity to see Miami from the water and encounter wildlife in their natural habitat.

Some travelers found the day long and busy, while others enjoyed the variety of experiences packed into a single outing. If you’re someone who appreciates having multiple sights covered without multiple bookings, this tour could be a good fit. But if you prefer a more relaxed, unhurried day, it might be worth considering other options.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combo is ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick but varied overview of Miami’s natural beauty, city sights, and beaches. It’s also suitable for families with children who are comfortable with outdoor activities and don’t mind a busy schedule.

If you’re someone who enjoys guided tours, scenic boat rides, and city exploration, you’ll likely find this package engaging. However, if you’re more interested in a leisurely day, with plenty of time to explore individual sights at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

In Summary

If you’re on a tight schedule and want to pack as much into one day as possible, this Full Day Combo offers a balanced mix of Miami’s highlights. The Everglades airboat ride provides a wild and scenic start, while the scenic boat cruise showcases Miami’s luxurious waterfront lifestyle. The double-decker bus tour then gives a quick look at neighborhoods rich in culture and art, ending with some relaxing beach time.

Expect a full, sometimes tiring day, but with the reward of diverse experiences and stunning scenery. The tour’s strength lies in its ability to give travelers a taste of multiple sides of Miami—nature, glamour, and urban charm—without multiple bookings or planning.

If you’re prepared for a packed schedule, and don’t mind the risk of delays, this could be a memorable way to see a lot of what Miami has to offer in a short time. Just keep in mind that the experience’s success hinges on timing and weather, so stay flexible and have fun.

FAQ

Where do we meet for the Full Day Combo Tour?
You’ll meet at 305 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, and should plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early for check-in.

How early should I arrive?
Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth start and secure good seats on the boat or bus.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, several lots are available nearby, but parking rates will apply, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s appropriate for guests aged 2 and over, but be aware that the airboat isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back or neck problems.

Can pregnant women participate?
Due to the nature of the airboat ride, pregnant guests are advised not to participate.

Are pets allowed?
No, animals aren’t permitted onboard, especially since alligators may swim close to the airboat.

What does the boat cruise show?
The 90-minute cruise features views of Hibiscus Island, Palm Island, Sunset Island, and the Venetian Islands, along with recognizable homes and Miami’s skyline.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there are quick snacks available at Everglades Park and restaurants at Bayside Marketplace.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID, camera, sun protection, and comfortable clothing. No outside food or drinks are allowed onboard.

How do I handle the tickets?
Your mobile ticket is scanned at check-in at the meeting point. Early arrival ensures smoother boarding.

This detailed look hopefully helps you decide whether this Miami full-day experience is the right fit for your trip. It offers a rewarding mix of adventure, scenery, and city sights for travelers eager to see as much as possible in one go.