Miami: Private City Cruise of Miami Beach with French Guide

If you’re thinking about seeing Miami from a different perspective, a private boat cruise might be just what you need. While Miami is famous for its beaches and vibrant nightlife, exploring it by boat offers a more relaxed and intimate way to soak in the sights. This tour, offered by OPEN MIAMI, provides a chance to glide past celebrity homes, admire the skyline, and enjoy the breeze — all with the comfort of a private group and a knowledgeable French guide.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the personalized nature of it. Since it’s a private tour, you won’t be stuck with strangers pressing against you, and the French-speaking guide adds a touch of charm and local insight that’s not always easy to find. Plus, the option to choose between a 2-hour or a 4-hour cruise means you can tailor the outing to your schedule and interests.

On the flip side, it’s not a bargain – at around $930 for up to six people – but if you’re craving a memorable and customized way to see Miami, the price can be justified. Just keep in mind that the tour focuses mostly on the water and sights around Biscayne Bay, so if you’re after a land-based exploration, this might not cover everything. Still, for those who want a special, scenic experience with relaxation and a touch of luxury — this cruise could be a great pick.

This experience feels ideal for travelers who value exclusivity, enjoy boating, and want a guided commentary in French. It’s particularly suited for couples, small groups, or families looking for an elegant way to see Miami without the hustle of crowded tours.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Perfect for those seeking an intimate experience with a French-speaking guide.
• Flexible Duration: Options range from 2 to 4 hours, allowing you to choose how much you want to see.
• Iconic Sights: See Millionaires Row, celebrity homes, Miami skyline, and nearby islands.
• Swim Stop Included: Enjoy a refreshing swim during the cruise, adding a bit of leisure to the sightseeing.
• Extended Tour Features (4-hour option): Visit Coconut Grove, Vizcaya Museum, Biscayne Bay, and Virginia Keys Manatee Reserve.
• Cost Consideration: At $930 for up to 6 people, it’s a premium experience, but one that offers exclusivity and tailored attention.

This private boat tour offers a fresh way to see Miami, combining scenic views, celebrity sightings, and expert commentary, all delivered in French. Whether you pick the 2-hour or 4-hour version, the core idea remains: enjoy the water, the views, and learn about what makes Miami special — all without the crowds and noise of larger tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Highlights

From the moment you step onto the boat, you’re in for a treat. The tour begins with a cruise along Millionaires Row, a stretch of luxurious waterfront homes belonging to some of America’s wealthiest. You’ll pass by Star Island, Palm Island, and Hibiscus Island, each with its own set of iconic mansions and celebrities’ residences. Hearing stories about these homes and their famous owners (if your guide shares them) adds a lot of charm and context to the sights.

As you sail past downtown Miami, you’ll get a different view of the city’s iconic skyline — a mixture of towering skyscrapers and modern architecture that’s especially stunning from the water. The cruise also takes you past the Miami Port and nearby islands, giving you a panoramic perspective that photos from land often can’t match.

One of the tour’s standout features is its swimming stop — a chance to cool off in the water and break up the sightseeing. This is a favorite among reviews, with travelers mentioning how refreshing and relaxing it is to swim in Biscayne Bay, especially with the Miami skyline as a backdrop.

If you opt for the 4-hour tour, the adventure continues after the water segment. You’ll head towards Coconut Grove, a lush, artsy neighborhood known for its relaxed vibe. Here, you’ll stop at the Vizcaya Museum, a gorgeous mansion surrounded by subtropical forests. While you might not have time to explore inside, simply admiring it from the water is impressive. The tour then extends into Biscayne Bay, where you can spot Virginia Keys and the Manatee Reserve — an excellent opportunity for wildlife lovers to see marine life like dolphins and manatees.

The Experience in Detail

The boat itself is described as a comfortable, private vessel equipped for a smooth ride. The guide, who speaks French, provides engaging commentary, sharing stories about the sights and local history. Travelers mention the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, which makes the experience more engaging and informative.

Since it’s a private tour, the group size is small, usually up to six people, making it ideal for a cozy outing. The flexibility in timing allows you to choose a morning or afternoon cruise, depending on your schedule and preferences.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included in the price is the boat tour itself, driven by a French captain and guided by a French-speaking expert. It’s a true all-in-one experience that combines navigation, commentary, and the luxury of privacy.

Travelers are advised to bring swimwear and drinks, especially if they plan to take advantage of the swim stop. Remember to wear sunscreen and bring hats or sunglasses to stay comfortable during the sunny cruise. Though the tour is private, it’s good idea to dress casually and comfortably, prepared for a day on the water.

Real Traveler Insights

Many reviews praise the quality of the commentary and the scenic views. A common sentiment is how much the experience enhances the typical Miami visit, offering a different perspective that’s both relaxing and visually stunning. Some note that the dolphins and manatees sightings are a bonus, adding a touch of wildlife that makes the cruise even more memorable.

On the downside, a few mention that the price is high, but most agree that the personalized service and unique views justify it. Others note that the tour’s focus on the water means land-based attractions are missed, but that’s a trade-off for this particular experience.

This cruise is particularly appealing if you’re looking for a luxurious, private experience in Miami. It’s suited for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or families who want to enjoy the city’s sights without large crowds. If you love being on the water, enjoy learning about local celebrity homes, and appreciate a guided commentary in French, you’ll find this tour hits the right notes.

However, if your main goal is a comprehensive land tour, or if you’re on a tight budget, this might not be the best fit. It’s also not specifically designed for children, but if your family enjoys boat trips, kids who are comfortable on the water should be fine.

All in all, this private Miami boat cruise offers a blend of luxury, relaxation, and local insight. The ability to customize your experience with a 2- or 4-hour option makes it flexible for different schedules. The guided commentary in French adds a layer of authenticity and charm, especially if you’re a francophone or just want to experience Miami with a bit of European flair.

While the cost is on the higher end, the exclusivity and personalized service could make it worth it — particularly if you’re celebrating something special or simply want a memorable way to explore the city. The stunning views, wildlife sightings, and the chance to see Miami from the water make this a worthwhile addition to your trip.

In the end, if you enjoy relaxing, scenic outings with a knowledgeable guide and are open to a slightly premium experience, this private cruise ticks many boxes. Just be sure to set your expectations about what’s included and remember that the primary focus is on the water and the sights you can see from it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, children comfortable on boats and enthusiastic about sightseeing will likely enjoy the cruise. Just keep in mind the focus on water activities and the need for supervision during swimming stops.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the boat ride, with a French captain and guide, and the ability to swim during the stop. It’s a private experience for your group, with no mention of additional amenities like food or drinks included.

Can I choose the duration of the cruise?
Yes, you can opt for either a 2-hour or a 4-hour cruise, allowing you to tailor the experience to your available time and interests.

What sights will I see?
You’ll see Millionaires Row and celebrity homes, Miami skyline, port, nearby islands, Coconut Grove, Vizcaya Museum (from the water), and potentially wildlife like dolphins and manatees.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, drinks, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended for the boat ride and swimming.

Is the tour available in the afternoon or morning?
Yes, the tours are usually available in both the morning and afternoon, giving you flexibility depending on your schedule.

If you’re after a seamless, private way to experience Miami’s best water views with a personable guide, this cruise might be just the ticket. It blends scenic beauty, wildlife, celebrity spotting, and a touch of luxury — all in a relaxed, intimate setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: