Miami Boat Tour, Haulover Sandbar, Raccoon Island

Planning a day on Miami’s waters? If you’re considering a private boat tour that combines sightseeing, relaxation, and a splash of adventure, this Miami boat tour might be just what you need. It’s designed to give you a personalized experience, with the flexibility to choose your stops — whether it’s lounging at the Haulover Sandbar or exploring Raccoon Island, famous for its playful raccoons.

What we really like about this trip is how it offers spectacular water views and a personalized touch — the boat is yours for four hours, and you can customize the itinerary. Plus, the inclusion of all costs upfront (captain, fuel, docking fees) makes it straightforward to budget.

However, a key consideration is that weekend visits to Raccoon Island can be crowded, which might diminish the chance of seeing raccoons in their natural environment. If seeing the island’s wildlife is a priority, a weekday trip could be better.

This tour suits anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic day on the water, especially those who value privacy and customization. Families, groups of friends, or couples looking to celebrate or just unwind with stunning views and a bit of snorkeling will likely enjoy this experience.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You control the stops and pace, making it flexible for your group.
• All-inclusive price: No hidden fees—just pay once, and everything else is covered.
• Great for scenic views: Cruise along Miami’s iconic mansions and celebrity islands.
• Ideal for relaxing: Shallow sandbars, floating mats, and snorkeling gear make it easy to unwind.
• Crowd considerations: Weekends can be busy at Raccoon Island, reducing wildlife sightings.
• Authentic reviews: Many travelers praise the friendly guides and beautiful water views.

What to Expect from the Miami Boat Tour

This is a private boat experience that balances sightseeing with leisure. For $669 per group (up to 6 people), you get four hours aboard a sleek 30-foot Formula 280 ss Power Boat. The boat is equipped with all you need—snorkeling gear, a cooler with ice for drinks, and a floating mat for lounging. The fact that docking fees, fuel, and the captain are included simplifies things and shifts your focus to enjoying your day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Intracoastal Waterway Cruise

Your adventure starts at a dock in Miami, and the cruise kicks off with a scenic journey across the bay towards Miami Beach. From the outset, you’ll be treated to some impressive views of Millionaire’s Row, where opulent mansions line the water. It’s a short 30-minute drive, but the perfect introduction to the area’s luxury lifestyle, with many reviews emphasizing how beautiful and grand these homes look from the water.

Cruising past Indian Creek Island—home to celebrities and billionaires—adds an extra layer of glamour. You might catch a glimpse of the homes of Tom Brady, Jeff Bezos, and other high-profile residents. The guide’s knowledge about the area adds value, as many reviews highlight how personable and informative the captain is.

Haulover Sandbar Stop

Next, the boat heads to the well-loved Haulover Sandbar, a shallow stretch of crystal-clear water perfect for swimming, relaxing, or floating on the supplied mat. The shallow waters mean you can wade far out without worry, and the calm surface makes it ideal for lounging, paddling, or simply soaking up the sun.

During weekends, this spot becomes a bustling hub with boats, food vendors, jet ski rentals, and groups gathering to party. It’s lively but can get crowded, which might affect the tranquility you’re seeking. Many reviews mention how enjoyable this stop is, especially with good weather and a friendly guide who can point out the best spots.

Raccoon Island (Sandspur Island)

An alternative stop is Raccoon Island, locally known as Sandspur Island. It’s famous for its raccoons, which are quite playful and adorable. However, weekends can be overwhelming with visitors, tents, and pets that scare raccoons away or make wildlife sightings less likely. It’s highly recommended to book on a weekday if seeing raccoons in their natural environment is a priority.

The island’s shallow waters also make it a good spot for snorkeling or just relaxing on the sand. Several reviewers mention their delight at spotting raccoons, though the chance decreases during busy weekends. For a quieter experience and better wildlife viewing, weekdays are preferred.

Return Cruise & Dolphin Watching

After your island stops, the boat cruises back along Biscayne Bay, giving you one last chance for stunning city views. Dolphins are a common sight here, though sightings aren’t guaranteed. Many travelers hope to see them, and previous reviews say it’s quite possible during the cruise.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes water, a cooler with ice, snorkeling gear, and a floating mat. It’s a relaxed, no-hassle setup—just bring your towels, sunblock, and swimwear. The guide will handle the rest, ensuring you get the most out of your four hours on the water.

Pricing and Value

At $669 for up to six people, this tour is reasonably priced considering it’s private and all-inclusive. For a custom, intimate experience with a knowledgeable captain, it offers good value—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. The reviews repeatedly praise the friendly guide, the flexibility of the trip, and the stunning scenery, which all add to the overall experience.

Real Traveler Insights from Reviews

Many travelers rave about the friendly and informative captain Henry, who makes sure everyone feels comfortable and gets to see all the highlights. One review even mentions raccoons on Raccoon Island, confirming that wildlife sightings are a genuine perk—though, as noted, better during weekdays.

The boat itself gets high marks for being comfortable and well-maintained. Guests appreciate the opportunity to snorkel and relax at the sandbar, with the floating mat being a hit for lounging. Several reviews mention how easy it was to coordinate logistics, thanks to clear communication from the guide, which is a big plus.

On the flip side, some reviewers note the potential for overcrowding at Raccoon Island, especially on weekends, which can lessen the wildlife experience. It’s a reminder that timing your trip can make a tangible difference.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance: Most trips are booked about 13 days ahead, so plan early if you want a weekend or weekday slot.
• Choose your day wisely: If wildlife viewing is a priority, consider a weekday trip.
• Bring essentials: Towels, sunscreen, swimwear, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture the views.
• Prepare for the weather: The tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Tipping is optional: Captain gratuity is at your discretion, and many guests tip based on service and experience.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Miami boat tour offers a fantastic way to see the city from a fresh perspective, especially if you love relaxing on the water and soaking in scenic views. The ability to customize your stops makes it appealing to a variety of travelers—whether you’re after picture-perfect mansions, lively sandbars, or wildlife encounters.

If you’re someone who enjoys a private, flexible experience with friendly guides, this trip is a strong choice. The inclusive pricing and all the gear you need make it straightforward and stress-free, letting you focus on the fun. It’s especially good for groups who want an intimate day of adventure without the crowds and noise of larger tours.

However, if wildlife sightings are your top priority, consider scheduling on a weekday or managing expectations for Raccoon Island during busy weekends. The boat’s comfort, the personalized service, and the stunning waterscape make this a memorable addition to any Miami itinerary.

For those seeking a laid-back, scenic, and customizable boat day, this tour ticks many boxes—and with positive reviews backing it up, it’s worth considering for your next Miami escape.

FAQ

How many people can the boat accommodate?
Up to 6 people can fit comfortably on the 30-foot Formula 280 ss Power Boat, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat, captain, docking fees, fuel, water, a cooler with ice, snorkeling gear, and a floating mat. There are no hidden charges.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible. You can spend most of the time at Haulover Sandbar or Raccoon Island, or a mix of both, based on your preferences.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the relaxed, scenic nature of the tour makes it suitable for families comfortable with boat rides. Remember to bring sunblock, towels, and swimsuits.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunblock, swimwear, and any personal items. The tour supplies snorkeling gear and water, so just pack essentials and some snacks if you’d like.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This private Miami boat tour offers a relaxed, scenic, and customizable way to explore Miami’s waters. Whether you’re after the luxury of Millionaire’s Row, the fun of the sandbar, or the wildlife of Raccoon Island, it’s a flexible experience that can cater to your vibe. Just remember to plan ahead, pick the right day for your interests, and enjoy the sunshine and sea views.