Family Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim

Discover Fort Lauderdale with this family-friendly boat cruise featuring scenic views, water toys, and a relaxing atmosphere for all ages.

If you’re looking for a way to soak in the sights of Fort Lauderdale while enjoying some fun in the water, this Family-Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim might be just what you need. It’s a tour that’s praised for its laid-back vibe, great views, and the chance to relax with family or friends. Whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned visitor, it offers a casual break from typical sightseeing, with plenty of chances to get out on the water and enjoy the sunshine.

What really draws us to this experience is how it combines scenic cruising past luxurious mansions and yachts with the opportunity for a swim at a sandbar — all while keeping the vibe relaxed and informal. Plus, the fact that you can bring your own food and drinks means you’ll stay energized without worrying about overpriced onboard bars. And with positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and a fun atmosphere, it seems like a solid choice for a laid-back day on the water.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts about 2 hours, which is perfect for a quick escape but might not be enough if you’re craving a full day of adventure. Also, since it’s a boat trip with water-based activities, it’s best suited for those comfortable around water and who enjoy a casual, social vibe.

Overall, if you’re traveling with family, friends, or just want a relaxing way to see Fort Lauderdale’s stunning waterways with a fun twist, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

Key Points

Family Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim - Key Points

  • Scenic Views & Landmarks: Passby yachts, mansions, and Port Everglades for great photo opportunities.
  • Relaxed Atmosphere: Great vibes, good music, and a casual environment make it fun and stress-free.
  • Water Fun Included: Inflatables and floats are provided for a splash-filled stop.
  • Bring Your Own Food & Drinks: Coolers are available on board, so pack your snacks and beverages.
  • Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with restrooms on board and plenty of water toys.
  • Affordable Price for a Short Trip: At around $60, it offers a good value for its entertainment and scenic experience.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point & Ease of Access

The tour kicks off at Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach, a well-known spot that’s easily accessible and near public transportation. Meeting here makes it straightforward to start your day without the hassle of complicated logistics. The check-in process is simple, and the boat is comfortable with space for up to 45 travelers.

What to Expect at the Launch

Once aboard, you’ll notice the relaxed vibe right away. The crew, including guides like Ross, Jenny, Harris, and Adam, earn high praise for their charisma and friendliness. Most reviews mention how they make the ride engaging for everyone, especially kids if you’re traveling with them. Expect good music, easy conversation, and plenty of water toys for the sandbar. Being able to bring your own food and drinks is a major plus—no need to pay premium prices onboard when you can pack your favorites.

The Cruise Route & Landmarks

The itinerary covers several must-see sights. The first stop is the sandbar, about an hour into the trip, where you’ll get to jump into the water, lounge on floats, or just relax in the sunshine. Reviewers like Roberta mention that the crew makes the experience interesting and enjoyable for the entire family, highlighting how lively and cheerful the guides are.

Next, the boat cruises through downtown Fort Lauderdale, giving you a panoramic view of the yacht capital of the world. Passing by lavish mansions and the Yacht Club, you’ll see some of the most enviable properties in the area. Keri appreciated the personable guides, noting how they made the sightseeing engaging and fun.

The cruise then moves on to Port Everglades, where you’ll get a glimpse of bustling cruise ships and cargo vessels. This area is a fascinating spot that really shows how much water surrounds this part of Florida. The “Venice of America” nickname rings true when you see the extensive canals, which further highlight the city’s unique landscape.

Finally, you’ll pass through the Las Olas Isles, home to some of the wealthiest residents in Fort Lauderdale. Visitors consistently comment on how impressive these mansions are and how the water-based tour provides a perspective you simply can’t get from land.

Water Toys & Relaxation

The inflatable floats and water toys are a hit, according to reviews. They add an element of fun and are especially appreciated at the sandbar stop. If you’re someone who enjoys lounging in the water or splashing around, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. Plus, the crew makes it clear that you are welcome to bring your own food and beverages, making the experience more personalized and relaxed.

The Value & Cost Analysis

At around $60 per person, this tour offers decent value considering its short duration and the included entertainment. The fact that you can bring your own drinks and food helps stretch the value further. It’s not a full-day adventure but more of a quick, scenic escape that combines sightseeing with water fun. The reviews confirm that it’s a memorable experience, especially for families and groups who want a low-key but enjoyable outing.

The Overall Vibe & Suitability

From the reviews, the vibe is consistently described as fun, personable, and lively. The crew’s charismatic approach makes the experience engaging without feeling rushed. People mention how the guides go out of their way to make the trip enjoyable for everyone, which is a big plus.

While it’s family-friendly, it’s also perfect for groups of friends or couples who just want a relaxed, scenic cruise with some water play thrown in. The tour’s casual nature makes it a comfortable choice for most travelers, especially those who enjoy social atmospheres and being on the water.

The Sum Up

Family Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim - The Sum Up

This Family-Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim in Fort Lauderdale is a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience the city’s waterways without any fuss. Its combination of scenic views, water toys, and easygoing crew makes it appealing whether you’re traveling with kids or simply looking for a low-pressure way to enjoy the sunshine. The ability to bring your own snacks and drinks, along with the friendly guides, adds a layer of convenience and friendliness that many travelers appreciate.

If your goal is to see the city from the water while having fun and relaxing at the same time, this tour hits the right notes. It’s ideal for those who want a short but memorable outing, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a lively, social environment.

However, keep in mind that this is a relatively quick trip — about 2 hours in total — so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you’ll want to combine it with other activities. Also, since it involves water-based fun, it’s best suited for those comfortable around water and looking for a casual, friendly experience.

This tour offers a practical mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and fun, making it a popular choice among reviewers who rate it a perfect 5 out of 5. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a break from the usual, it’s worth considering for your Fort Lauderdale itinerary.

✨ Book This Experience

Family Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim



5.0

(12 reviews)

100% 5-star

“Ross and Jenny were great! We totally enjoyed”

— Roberta L, Feb 2025

FAQs about the Fort Lauderdale Boat Cruise and Swim

Family Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim - FAQs about the Fort Lauderdale Boat Cruise and Swim

Is this tour suitable for children? Many reviews mention how the crew makes the experience fun and engaging for all ages, and the water toys can add extra excitement. It’s generally family-friendly, but always check with the operator if you have very young children.

Can I bring my own food and drinks? Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages. The boat has coolers for your convenience, so you can pack your favorite snacks or drinks.

How long is the tour? The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, which is perfect for a quick getaway to see the sights and enjoy some water fun without taking up an entire day.

What sights will I see? You’ll pass by Fort Lauderdale’s yachts, mansions, Port Everglades, and the Las Olas Isles. It’s a scenic route that highlights the city’s luxurious and water-centric lifestyle.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people can join? The tour can accommodate up to 45 travelers, making it a lively group but still intimate enough to enjoy a personal experience.

Are restrooms available on board? Yes, there are restrooms on the boat, which adds to the comfort during the trip.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Whether you’re after a scenic cruise, a fun water break, or just a relaxing way to see Fort Lauderdale from the water, this tour balances all those elements well. It’s an honest, enjoyable option that many travelers, especially families and groups, seem to highly recommend.