Miami: Exclusive Private Boat Guided Tour

Imagine exploring Miami’s glittering coast on your own boat, with a friendly captain showing you all the sights — away from the crowds and with total flexibility. That’s what this Private Miami Boat Tour offers. It’s a chance to see the city’s famous mansions, vibrant skyline, and iconic islands from a comfortable and intimate perspective. We haven’t been on this trip ourselves, but based on hundreds of reviews and detailed descriptions, it sounds like a standout way to experience Miami’s waterways without the hustle and bustle of larger tour boats.

What we love most? First, the personalized service that allows you to customize your route and music, and second, the stunning views of Miami’s most exclusive neighborhoods and vibrant cityscape. The ability to relax, take photos, and even swim or party on the water makes this a flexible, fun option.

However, one thing to consider is the additional costs—the captain and fuel fees are paid separately at the marina, which can add to the overall expense. For travelers craving privacy, a personal guide, and a chance to see Miami from a unique vantage point, this tour seems especially well-suited. Whether celebrating a birthday, a bachelorette, or just indulging in some high-end sightseeing, this private boat trip promises a memorable day.

Key Points

• Private & Exclusive: Up to 12 guests, your own boat and captain.
• Flexible durations: 2, 3, or 4 hours to suit your plans.
• Stunning sights: Celebrity homes, skyline, beaches, and islands.
• Onboard perks: Bluetooth sound system, floating water mat, bathroom.
• Additional costs: Captain and fuel fees paid separately.
• Ideal for celebrations: Birthdays, bachelorettes, or special outings.
• Highly rated: 4.8 stars from 177 reviews.
• Great value: Personalized experience at a competitive price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience

Setting Out on Your Private Boat

The tour starts at a marina, with the precise meeting point depending on your selected option. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by a friendly captain who steers the boat, and you’ll enjoy the freedom to relax and soak in the scenery. The boat is equipped with essentials like water bottles, ice, a cooler, lifejackets, and a bathroom — all focused on making your trip comfortable and hassle-free.

What’s Included and What’s Extra

While the price of $255 per group up to 12 is quite reasonable for a private experience, keep in mind that captain and fuel fees are paid separately at the marina—$50 per hour for the captain and $50 for fuel. These costs are clearly outlined and add transparency, though travelers should budget accordingly before booking.

Types of Tours and Duration Options

• 2-Hour Sightseeing Tour: Perfect for a quick glimpse of Miami’s highlights. You’ll get the best views of the city’s skyline and the luxurious homes on Star Island. It’s a stress-free way to see the waterfront without feeling rushed.

• 3-Hour Tour (Sightseeing & Beach): Adds an hour for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying onboard amenities like a Bluetooth sound system and floating water mat. Many reviews emphasize how much fun they had stopping for a swim or a quick break.

• 4-Hour (Half Day) Celebration Tour: Ideal for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or any special event. This longer option allows for anchorages next to other boats for a party vibe, and optional extras like jet skis or food from the boat’s food service. Many travelers note how memorable this extended experience is, with multiple reviews mentioning extending their trip because they were having such a good time.

Sights and Stops That Make It Special

The tour’s itinerary includes Miami River, Bayside Miami (complete with its Ferris Wheel), Port of Miami, Miami Beach and its islands, Star Island (home to the rich and famous), Millionaires Row, and Fisher Island.

Guests often comment on the thrill of seeing luxurious mansions, many of which belong to celebrities. As one reviewer notes, “Fernando showed us many homes and boats, and we enjoyed the ride very much.” The views of the Miami skyline are particularly breathtaking, with the city’s gleaming skyscrapers reflected on the water, especially at sunset.

Onboard Experience

Beyond sightseeing, the tour offers plenty of fun onboard options. The Bluetooth sound system allows you to play your favorite music, creating a personalized ambiance. The floating water mat, included on 3 and 4-hour tours, adds a playful element for swimming or lounging in the water. Some reviews praise the captain’s attentiveness — “Anthony Small was a great guide, he showed us all the important villas and made sure we had a safe, fun trip,” says one happy guest.

Additional Activities and Customizations

For an extra splash of excitement, jet skis are available upon request, though at an added cost. Food options are also available from a boat that sells snacks and drinks, making the experience ideal for celebrations. Several guests appreciated the ability to control the music and extend their trip, saying it’s a flexible, relaxed way to enjoy Miami’s waters.

The Value Proposition

At roughly $255 for up to 12 people, this private tour offers great value when compared to larger, less personalized boat trips. The exclusivity means no crowded decks or noisy groups — just your friends, your captain, and your preferred sights. Many reviewers mention how they felt it was money well spent, especially for special occasions or when wanting to experience Miami from the water without the chaos.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, with many noting captains like Anthony Small, Fernando, Ovi, and Ramon by name. The views of celebrity homes and Miami’s skyline are frequently highlighted as “breathtaking” and “unforgettable.” Guests also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, often extending trips or adding extra hours because they don’t want the experience to end.

A quote from a reviewer sums it up: “This was an unforgettable and truly amazing trip. Everything was excellent. The captain explained everything in great detail, and we really enjoyed the experience.” Another mentions, “The boat was clean, the music was great, and the captain made us feel right at home.”

Practical Tips for Booking

• Expect to pay the captain and fuel surcharges separately at the marina—budget around $100 for these fees if you opt for a longer trip.
• Bring your passport or ID for check-in and the possibility of photo identification.
• If you’re celebrating or planning a special occasion, the 4-hour option offers the most flexibility and fun.
• Check the meeting point when you book, as it can vary depending on your tour choice.
• This tour is best suited for groups of family, friends, or colleagues who want an exclusive, customizable experience.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This private boat tour is perfect for those who want a personalized, relaxed way to see Miami’s most iconic sights. It’s ideal for celebrations, small groups, or travelers seeking exclusivity without the hassle of large tour boats. If you value flexibility, comfort, and stunning water views, this experience promises a memorable day on the water.

It’s also a good choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with swimming or partying, thanks to onboard amenities and optional extras like jet skis or food. However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer a guided group tour with fewer costs, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This Miami private boat tour offers a rare blend of intimacy, flexibility, and stunning scenery. With knowledgeable hosts, the chance to see celebrity mansions, and the freedom to customize your day, it’s an experience that many guests find well worth the cost. The reviews underscore the value of having a dedicated captain showing you around, making it feel like a day out with friends rather than a generic cruise.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a unique way to explore Miami’s waterfront, this tour makes a memorable impression. If you’re after a comfortable, private, and scenic water adventure, this experience should be high on your list.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is exclusively for your group, with up to 12 guests, providing a personalized experience on your own boat with a dedicated captain.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat, onboard amenities like water bottles, ice, a cooler, bathroom, and lifejackets. The captain and fuel fees are paid separately at the marina.

How long are the tours?
Options range from 2 hours to 4 hours, allowing you to choose based on how much time you want on the water and what sights you wish to see.

Can I extend my trip?
Yes, if you’re on the 3 or 4-hour tour, many guests choose to add extra time to enjoy swimming, partying, or exploring more.

Are food and drinks available onboard?
Food is available from a boat that sells snacks and drinks, and you can bring your own music to play via Bluetooth.

Are jet skis or additional activities available?
Yes, jet skis can be requested for an additional cost, perfect for those wanting more excitement.

What sights will I see?
Expect to see Miami River, Bayside Miami (including the Ferris Wheel), Port of Miami, Miami Beach and its islands, Star Island, Millionaires Row, and Fisher Island.

Is this tour suitable for celebrations?
Absolutely. The longer tours are ideal for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or any special event, with options to anchor and party onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID for check-in, sunscreen, hats, and your favorite music. Don’t forget cash or cards for the additional captain and fuel charges.

In summary, if you’re seeking a luxurious, flexible, and scenic way to experience Miami from the water, this private boat tour delivers a memorable adventure. It’s especially well-suited for groups wanting privacy, personalized service, and a touch of glamour on their Miami trip.