Private Captained Boat Tour in Miami for up to 12 passengers

If you’re thinking about exploring Miami by water, a private boat tour might just be the way to go. From what we’ve seen in the reviews and tour details, this experience offers a personalized way to see the city’s iconic sights without the crowds or hassle of larger, public cruises. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a more flexible, intimate outing with friends, family, or even a small group of colleagues.

What really caught our attention here are two things: First, the private nature of the experience—you’re not sharing your boat with strangers, which makes for a more relaxing, customizable trip. Second, the stellar reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking views. However, one thing worth considering is the additional marina and captain fees—these are not included in the main price, so it’s good to budget that in advance.

This tour suits travelers who want to enjoy Miami’s scenery in a laid-back, personal setting—perfect for those celebrating special occasions or simply craving a unique perspective on the city’s coast. It’s also a solid pick for anyone who appreciates good value, given the reviews and the variety of options for longer cruises and added fun like floating water mats.

Key Points

• Private experience means no crowded decks or noisy groups—just your own crew.
• Great reviews highlight friendly, professional captains and stunning scenery.
• Flexible durations from 2 to 4 hours, with options to extend your trip.
• Additional costs like marina and captain fees aren’t included in the base price.
• Water fun included with upgrades for longer trips and the water mat.
• Ideal for groups of up to 12, perfect for celebrations or relaxing days on the water.

What to Expect from the Miami Private Boat Tour

This tour offers a pretty straightforward but highly customizable way to experience Miami from the water. The boat itself is described as beautiful and super clean, with amenities like a cooler, bottled water, Bluetooth speaker, and restroom—all designed to make your time on the water comfortable. The tour lasts roughly 2 to 4 hours, depending on what options you select, which is ample time to see the sights and enjoy some leisure.

Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point & Duration
The tour begins at 243 NW S River Dr. and the duration is roughly 2 to 4 hours. The fact that it’s private means you control the pace and can focus on what interests you most. The base price is $199 for your entire group, up to 12 people, which generally makes it a pretty good deal considering how much you get for that price.

Stop 1: Miami Skyline
As the boat pulls away, you’ll immediately notice how much more impressive Miami looks from the water. The reviews rave about the “breathtaking skyline” and the chance to snap photos of iconic skyscrapers and landmarks like Brickell City Centre. One traveler said, “The VIEWS!!!!!! That’s all I’m going to say!” which sums up the general excitement. We love how this vantage point allows you to see the city from a different angle—up close enough for photos but still relaxed.

Stop 2: Port of Miami
Next, the tour cruises past the busy port, where cruise ships and cargo vessels go about their daily business. Several reviews mention how fascinating it is to watch the activity up close. One review notes, “Get up close and personal with the Port of Miami cruise ships,” which sounds like a favorite for those into maritime scenes or just wanting a dynamic, lively backdrop.

Stop 3: Bayside Marketplace
The boat then makes its way to Bayside Marketplace, a lively waterfront shopping and dining area. The reviews highlight how this area’s vibrant atmosphere makes the tour feel more alive. It’s a chance to see Miami’s bustling waterfront scene and perhaps even catch some local performers or grab a quick bite afterward.

Stop 4: Fisher Island & Celebrity Homes
The final highlight involves glimpses of Fisher Island, known for its luxury mansions and exclusive vibe. Many reviewers commented on how stunning the mansions look from the water, with one describing it as “a rare peek into the luxurious lifestyle of Fisher Island residents.” This part of the trip is particularly appealing if you love seeing high-end homes or want some great photo ops.

Additional Options & Fun Extras

If you opt for a longer cruise, you’ll get more time to relax and enjoy the water. Some upgrades include a floating water mat—perfect for taking a dip or just lounging in the ocean. Several reviews mention how much fun this added feature is, making the trip more than just sightseeing.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Based on reviews, the standout features are the friendly, knowledgeable captains and the breathtaking views. Multiple reviews praise captains like Javier, Diego, and Marlon for their attentiveness and friendliness, which makes a big difference in creating a relaxing vibe. Reviewers also mention how clean and well-maintained the boat is, which adds peace of mind.

One traveler shared, “The boat is beautiful! Super clean! Just a whole VIBE!” and highlighted the Bluetooth speaker as a fun feature, perfect for dancing or just setting a chill mood. Another said, “The cooler was stocked, and the music system was super loud,” indicating that the boat is well-equipped for a good time.

Authentic Feedback from Reviewers

Many reviews repeatedly mention how good the value is for the price, especially given the size of the boat and the private setting. One person says, “The experience was amazing,” and another notes, “The captain was respectful, knowledgeable, and nice,” emphasizing the quality of guides and the overall experience.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth being aware of the extras—like the marina fee of USD $50 and captain fee of USD $50 per hour—which aren’t included in the initial price. Planning for these additional costs ensures a smooth experience without surprises.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll See and Do

The boat tour’s core appeal lies in the variety of sights and the relaxed pace. Starting out from downtown Miami, you’ll sail past the skyline, capturing views that are perfect for memories or social media. The city’s iconic buildings, such as those in Brickell, create a dramatic backdrop.

Cruising along the port, you’ll see the hustle and bustle of cruise ships—an impressive site, especially if you’ve never seen so many vessels in one place. This is a favorite among travelers who love maritime activity or enjoy observing the busy port.

Approaching Bayside Marketplace, you’ll experience Miami’s lively waterfront atmosphere, dotted with shops and eateries. It’s a fun spot to imagine yourself in the heart of Miami’s social scene. Then, gliding toward Fisher Island, you’ll get a glimpse into the luxurious homes of the rich and famous—an exclusive view that many find fascinating. The mansions and landscapes make for stunning photos and a peek into Miami’s high-end lifestyle.

The Water Fun & Upgrades

Upgrading to a longer cruise usually includes a floating water mat. As one reviewer put it, “We got to swim and had plenty of room on this boat,” which highlights how some trips include the chance to take a dip in the ocean, adding a playful and refreshing element to your day.

Why This Tour Might Be the Right Choice for You

This private boat experience is perfect if you’re after a flexible, intimate outing without the crowds. It suits groups who want to relax and have control over their itinerary, whether celebrating a special occasion or just wanting a scenic escape. The positive reviews around the professionalism of the guides and the boat’s cleanliness suggest you’ll be in good hands.

If you’re someone who values great value for your dollar, the all-in-one package—water, music, scenic views—delivers a lot for a reasonable price. It’s also a good choice for those who want to avoid the sometimes crowded, commercial feel of larger cruise ships.

However, do keep in mind the additional fees and the need to book at least a few weeks in advance—most travelers seem to plan about 3 weeks ahead, which is a good tip for securing your preferred date.

FAQs

How many people can the boat accommodate?
The boat is designed to hold up to 12 passengers, making it suitable for small groups, families, or intimate gatherings.

What is the cost of the tour?
The group price is $199, which covers the entire boat for your party. Keep in mind there are additional fees like marina ($50) and captain ($50/hour) charges not included in this price.

What is the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on which options you select and how long you decide to extend the cruise.

Are the tours private?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Is there music onboard?
Yes, the boat features a Bluetooth music system, enabling you to play your favorite tunes and set the mood.

Are there amenities onboard?
The boat includes a restroom, cooler with ice, bottled water, and a floating water mat for fun in the sea.

What should I bring?
It’s a good idea to bring your sunglasses, sunscreen, and possibly your own drinks if you’d like. The boat already provides bottled water and a cooler, but personal items are fine.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at 243 NW S River Dr, Miami. It’s easy to access and well-located for exploring other parts of the city.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed, so those traveling with assistance animals should be comfortable on the boat.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to see some of Miami’s most iconic sights from a unique perspective. With lively reviews praising the friendly guides, the cleanliness of the vessel, and the stunning views, it’s clear many travelers have found this experience worth every penny. It’s particularly well-suited for groups wanting an exclusive adventure, whether celebrating or just wanting to chill out on the water.

The added features like a water mat and Bluetooth speaker elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing—turning it into a fun, social outing. Just remember to budget for the extra fees and plan your booking ahead of time.

If you’re after a scenic, private escape on the water that combines comfort, convenience, and great value, this tour could be just what you need to make your Miami visit unforgettable.

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