Sunset Star Island Cruise

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to soak in Miami’s famous sights as the day winds down, the Sunset Star Island Cruise might just be your ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve read plenty of reviews and gathered all the details to help you decide if it fits what you’re after in an evening outing. It’s a simple, no-fuss cruise offering spectacular views, some drinks, and a peaceful cruise along Miami’s coast.

What really caught my eye are the stunning sunset views and the opportunity to see Miami’s glittering skyline lit up at night. The cruise’s relaxed atmosphere and the fact that it’s not a loud party boat are big pluses if you’re looking to unwind. On the flip side, some might find the 2-hour duration a little on the short side if they want a more in-depth sightseeing experience. This cruise seems best suited for those wanting a peaceful, scenic evening rather than a wild night out.

If you enjoy looking at mansions of the rich and famous, or just want a laid-back way to see Miami from the water with a drink in hand, this tour could be perfect. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a partner, it offers a nice balance of sightseeing and relaxation. Just keep in mind that it’s not a party cruise — so if you’re after loud music and dancing, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Beautiful sunset and skyline views make this a great way to end your day.
• Relaxed, non-party atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
• Limited seats, so booking early is recommended.
• Drinks like wine, beer, prosecco, and cocktails are available to purchase onboard.
• The cruise passes iconic sights like Jungle Island, Miami Beach, and the Port of Miami.
• It’s an affordable experience at $34 per person, offering good value for scenic sightseeing.
• Suitable for most travelers, with near public transportation access and basic amenities like restrooms.
• Free cancellation makes planning a bit less stressful.

A Detailed Look at the Sunset Star Island Cruise Experience

When we talk about a cruise like this, what stands out most are the views and atmosphere. It’s designed to be a calming, scenic ride that allows you to relax and enjoy Miami’s scenery in a more intimate setting. The cruise lasts roughly 2 hours, giving you enough time to see multiple iconic sights without feeling rushed, yet it’s short enough to fit into an evening plan.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Experience

Stop 1: Miami Arena
The journey begins near the Miami Arena, home of the Miami Heat, and it’s fun to see the waterfront area where the city’s sports passion is centered. The best part? It’s a free viewing of a lively part of downtown Miami’s skyline, setting the tone for the cruise.

Stop 2: Jungle Island & Venetian Islands
Cruising past Jungle Island, you get a glimpse of this popular animal attraction while also enjoying views of Miami’s charming Venetian Islands. The contrast between lush green spaces and shiny water-front mansions makes for some impressive photo opportunities.

Stop 3: Star Island & Nearby Islands
This portion is often the highlight — floating past the homes of the wealthy and famous. The cruise offers a chance to admire the architecture and opulence of Star, Palm, and Hibiscus Islands. One reviewer mentioned loving the stunning views of these private residences, which really add a luxurious touch to the experience.

Stop 4: Miami Beach Marina & Yachts
As the boat heads toward Miami Beach, you’ll see some of the most gorgeous yachts in the world. It’s fun to imagine the lifestyles of the owners as you glide past their floating mansions.

Stop 5: Port of Miami
Next, marvel at the massive cruise ships and shipping activity that fuels Miami’s economy. Watching the huge vessels and cranes in action reminds you of the city’s bustling port.

Optional Dolphin Sightings & Skyline Views
The waters outside Miami are known for the occasional dolphin visit, and some travelers have seen dolphins swim right up to the boat — a real treat if you’re lucky. As dusk turns to evening, the yacht’s deck becomes a prime spot for snapping photos of Miami’s dazzling skyline lit up against the night sky.

Drinks & Refreshments: What’s Available

Onboard, you can purchase a variety of alcoholic beverages ranging from $6 to $12. Choices include frozen cocktails, wines, and Captain Jimmy’s Punch — perfect for kicking back and enhancing the sunset experience. Soda and bottled water are also available, making it easy to stay hydrated or enjoy a non-alcoholic option.

Comfort & Amenities

The cruise offers restroom facilities onboard, which is always a plus on small water tours. Seating is limited, so arriving early or booking in advance is wise to secure your preferred spot, especially if you want the best views.

The Price: Worth It?

At $34 per person, this cruise offers decent value for such scenic and relaxing two hours. When you consider the cost of waterfront restaurants or small boat rentals, it’s a budget-friendly way to see Miami from the water without sacrificing comfort or views. The experience is straightforward, focusing on sightseeing and unwinding, rather than entertainment or party vibes.

What Travelers Are Saying

A recent review sums it up well: “Very cool experience 10/10. Host was great and entertaining. I loved the chance to get a picture as a souvenir at the end.” This highlights the friendly vibe and the photogenic nature of the tour. Another reviewer appreciated the beautiful sights and the relaxed atmosphere, making it clear that this is more about enjoying the scenery than loud music or dancing.

Considerations & Tips

While the cruise is generally well-received, keep in mind that it’s not a party boat — so if you’re searching for lively music or dancing, this isn’t your scene. It’s best suited for those wanting a peaceful, scenic evening. Since seats are limited, booking early is advised, especially during peak times.

Weather can impact the tour — it’s weather-dependent, and cancellations due to bad weather are possible. But if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, which provides some peace of mind.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Miami’s spectacular views without the loud party scene. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or even families with older kids who enjoy sightseeing from the water. The relaxed pace and stunning scenery make it an excellent choice for those looking to wind down after a busy day of exploring.

If you’re keen on photo opportunities of the city’s skyline at sunset, or if you simply want to see some of Miami’s most impressive mansions from a comfortable boat, this tour hits the spot. It’s also great for anyone new to Miami, offering a gentle introduction to the city’s coastal charm.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $34, you get a two-hour escape on the water with beautiful views, some drinks available for purchase, and a peaceful vibe that can help you unwind. While it won’t replace a full sightseeing tour or a lively party cruise, it offers a nice balance of scenery, comfort, and affordability.

If your goal is to watch the sunset, see Miami’s skyline glow, and relax in a friendly setting, then this cruise could be a good fit. Keep in mind, seats are limited, so early booking is wise if you want to snag a prime spot for those perfect sunset photos.

The Sunset Star Island Cruise is a straightforward, enjoyable experience that captures the essence of Miami’s coastal beauty without a lot of fuss. It’s best for relaxed travelers who appreciate scenic views and a calm atmosphere — a lovely way to end a day in Miami.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
The tour is open to most travelers, but since alcoholic beverages are sold onboard and it’s a relaxing, adult-oriented experience, it might be best suited for older children or teenagers. Always check with the provider if traveling with kids.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, offering enough time to see multiple sights without it feeling rushed or overly lengthy.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, outside food or drinks aren’t allowed onboard. However, a variety of cocktails, wine, beer, and mocktails are available for purchase.

Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes, the cruise offers restroom facilities, which is a nice convenience during the trip.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point is Fiesta Cruises Slip 11 at Miamarina at Bayside, located at 401 Biscayne Blvd. It’s near public transportation options.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, but weather-related cancellations are fully covered with rescheduling or refunds.

Is this cruise wheelchair accessible?
Service animals are permitted, and the tour is near public transportation. For specific accessibility questions, contacting the provider directly would be best.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking early is recommended because seats are limited. The sunset timing varies, so check the schedule to align with sunset for the best photo opportunities.

If you’re after a mellow, scenic way to enjoy Miami’s iconic coastline and skyline, the Sunset Star Island Cruise offers just that. Its balance of affordability, stunning views, and relaxed vibe make it a nice addition to any Miami trip — especially if you love catching sunsets from the water.