Full Day Combo: Everglades, 90 Min Boat, Double Decker Tour

Travelers looking to pack a lot of Miami into one day might find this Full Day Combo Tour intriguing. It promises a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and city sights—all in just about two days. While the tour covers some of Miami’s most iconic spots, it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for so you can decide if it’s worth your time and money.

We’re particularly fond of the variety—from the wild landscapes of the Everglades to the glamorous mansions of Biscayne Bay, and the vibrant neighborhoods of Miami Beach. The knowledgeable guides often get high praise, helping make each segment more engaging. On the flip side, the day can stretch longer than expected, especially when traffic or unforeseen delays hit, which is worth keeping in mind.

This tour could suit families or travelers eager for a comprehensive snapshot of Miami in a single day. It offers enough flexibility and variety for those who want a bit of everything without the hassle of planning multiple separate outings. However, if you prefer a slow pace or deeply local experiences, this might feel a little rushed. Now, let’s break down each part of this full-day adventure.

Key Points

• Variety of Experiences: Combines wildlife, scenic views, and city highlights in one day.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 2 and up, with options like beach chairs and umbrellas included.
• Potential for Delays: Traffic and unexpected incidents like drawbridge closures can impact timing.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Positive reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of tour guides.
• Value for Price: At $169.99, it offers a comprehensive experience, but some might find it a long, tiring day.
• Limited Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant women or those with back issues due to the airboat ride.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Everglades National Park and Airboat Ride

The day begins with a trip to Sawgrass Recreation Park, where you’ll hop onto a 30-minute airboat ride through the sawgrass of the Everglades. This is the highlight for many—an exhilarating way to glimpse the wilderness and hopefully spot some crocodiles and other wildlife. The open-air boat zips across the water, offering a sense of speed and closeness to nature that’s hard to match.

One reviewer noted, “the tour was a wonderful experience,” but also mentioned an unexpected delay caused by a drawbridge that wouldn’t open, adding an hour to the schedule. Keep in mind that delays like this, while rare, do happen and can extend your day unexpectedly.

While the admission is free, the real value lies in the experience of being on the water and the chance to see wildlife with a knowledgeable captain. The educational alligator shows are also part of the park’s offerings, providing a chance to hold an alligator and learn about these ancient creatures—an exciting highlight for kids and adults alike.

Stop 2: Biscayne Bay Sightseeing Cruise

Next, the tour heads to Bayside Marketplace for a 90-minute cruise around Biscayne Bay. This cruise showcases Miami’s glamorous side, passing by famous millionaire homes, South Beach, Miami Skyline, and scenic islands like Key Biscayne.

The views of luxury mansions and picturesque neighborhoods are what many travelers love—“You’ll love the views of some of the most beautiful homes you can’t see from land,” as one guest said. The cruise’s open deck allows for unobstructed photo opportunities, and a cash bar onboard makes it easy to enjoy a drink while soaking in the scenery.

A typical challenge is seating—since it’s first-come, first-serve, arriving early is wise. And although the cruise is mainly passive, the stunning vistas make it a worthwhile break from the busy city streets.

Stop 3: Miami City Tour on Double Decker Bus

The final sightseeing segment is a double-decker bus tour that takes you through Miami’s most iconic neighborhoods. Expect to pass by Little Havana, the Art Deco historic district, Downtown Miami, and South Beach. It’s a 1.5-hour ride that aims to give a broad overview of the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

What makes this part special is the guided commentary—many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides for their insights into Miami’s history, culture, and architecture. The open-top bus allows for great photo opportunities, especially of the colorful Art Deco buildings.

Relaxing at Miami Beach

The tour offers a full day, but there’s also a chance to unwind at Miami Beach itself. You’ll get a beach chair and umbrella, perfect for relaxing after a busy schedule. The beach chairs are available for use the following day if you wish, but most travelers use them on the same day, weather permitting.

This segment ensures that, after a day of sightseeing, you can soak up some sun, swim, or just enjoy the ocean breeze—an essential part of any Miami visit.

Practical Considerations and Tips

This tour operates from 305 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, with a start time of 9:15 am. Arriving at least 30 minutes early is recommended, especially given the size of the group (up to 49 travelers). Parking is available nearby, but rates and availability vary, so plan accordingly.

Since the airboat ride isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant guests or those with back or neck issues, travelers with mobility needs should consider this. Also, no pets or service animals are allowed onboard due to safety concerns with the alligators.

The price of $169.99 reflects a package that includes multiple activities, which could be a good value if you want a full day of activity and sightseeing. However, some travelers, like Susan, found that delays extended their day, making it feel longer than expected.

Lunch isn’t included, but there are plenty of quick options at Everglades Park and Bayside Marketplace. Be sure to bring your camera and government-issued ID, as well as sunscreen and hats for sun protection during beach time.

What’s the Real Value?

This tour offers a great way to see a broad swath of Miami’s attractions without the hassle of booking different tours. The wildlife experience at the Everglades, luxury views on Biscayne Bay, and city highlights on the double-decker bus combine to form a well-rounded day.

The guides’ knowledge enhances the experience, helping you understand what you’re seeing and making the day more engaging. For families, the educational alligator shows and beach time provide fun and relaxation. For those who love scenic views and wildlife, this package hits a nice sweet spot.

However, the long day can be tiring, especially if traffic delays occur. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a busy schedule and looking to maximize their time in Miami.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who wants a rundown of Miami in one day, this tour is a solid choice. It’s ideal for families with kids, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to see the city’s highlights with minimal fuss. Those who value guided commentary and scenic cruises will find this offers a satisfying mix.

Conversely, if you’re seeking deep dives into Miami’s neighborhoods or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might prefer individual tours or spending more time exploring specific areas on your own.

Travelers with mobility concerns or who want a more leisurely day may want to consider alternative options, as some parts of this tour are not wheelchair accessible and the overall schedule can be quite packed.

FAQs

Where do we meet for the Full Day Combo Tour?
You’ll meet at 305 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139, with the tour departing at 9:15 am. Arriving 30 minutes early helps ensure smooth check-in and securing good seats.

How early should I arrive for the tour?
Arriving at least 30 minutes prior is recommended, especially since seating on the boat and bus is first-come, first-serve. Early arrival also helps avoid missing out on prime spots.

Is parking available near the departure point?
Yes, there are several parking lots nearby, but rates vary. It’s wise to allow extra time for parking and walking to the meeting point.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for guests aged 2 and over. Kids especially enjoy the wildlife shows and the chance to relax on the beach afterward.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Unfortunately, the airboat ride isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with back or neck problems. Be sure to inform the provider ahead of time if you have specific needs.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your ID, camera, sunscreen, and hat. If you plan to stay at the beach afterward, check if your beach chair is included in the rental. Remember, outside food and drinks aren’t permitted onboard the boat.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Combo Tour offers a diverse snapshot of Miami—from wild landscapes and luxury homes to lively neighborhoods—all in one well-organized package. It’s a good pick for adventurous families or first-time visitors who want to see the city’s highlights without the hassle of multiple bookings.

The experience is generally well-rated for guides and scenery, but keep in mind that traffic delays can stretch the day longer than planned. If you enjoy active sightseeing with a mix of adventure and relaxed beach time, this tour fits the bill nicely.

On the other hand, travelers seeking a more relaxed or niche experience might prefer to tailor their day independently or choose specific tours focusing on one aspect of Miami. Overall, for those willing to embrace a full, lively day, this combo tour offers solid value and a memorable way to get a taste of Miami’s vibrant character.