If you’re looking for a way to explore Miami’s waters that’s both personal and packed with sights, this private boat tour might be just what you need. Offered by Miami Ocean Tours, this three-hour adventure promises a peek into the luxurious and wild sides of Miami’s coastline—without the crowds and with plenty of opportunities for swimming, wildlife spotting, and even a little celebrity spotting.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the customized itinerary means you can tailor your route to your interests, whether that’s visiting the homes of the rich and famous or just relaxing at a sandbar. Second, the knowledgeable captain, Henry, has earned high praise for his friendliness and local insights, making the trip not just scenic but also engaging.
Of course, no tour is perfect—some guests noted that the pickup location wasn’t immediately clear, and there’s a small additional fee for the captain, which isn’t included in the initial price. But for those wanting a flexible, private outing with a mix of adventure, wildlife, and celebrity-viewing, this tour generally hits the right notes.
This experience is well-suited for families, friends, or small groups eager to see Miami from a different perspective. If you’re comfortable with a 3-hour boat ride and enjoy customizing your day, this tour can become a highlight of your Miami trip.
Key Points
- Private, customizable route tailored to your interests
- Visit celebrity islands and see luxurious homes from the water
- Swim, snorkel, and relax at picturesque sandbars and islands
- Wildlife spotting including dolphins and raccoons
- Includes water, cooler, and amenities like Bluetooth sound system and sun deck
- Upgraded twin engines for speed and reliability
An In-Depth Look at the Miami Private Boat Tour
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in North Miami Beach
Setting Out from Bill Bird Marina
Starting at Bill Bird Marina on Collins Ave, we find a convenient spot with free parking—an important detail for those driving in. The meeting point’s precise coordinates (25.906588, -80.124428) help ensure a smooth start. Captain Henry greets you with a friendly smile, ready to show you Miami’s waters in a way that’s both fun and informative.
The Boat and Comfort
The vessel is a powerful twin-engine boat equipped with a cuddy cabin—a small, sheltered space perfect for escaping the sun or grabbing a quick rest. Amenities like a Bluetooth sound system, sun deck, and transom water shower mean you can tune into your favorite tunes, soak up the sun, or rinse off after swimming.
The Route: A Flexible Adventure
The tour is designed to be customizable—you and Captain Henry decide what to see and do. The itinerary generally includes a visit to Raccoon Island, a quirky spot where you can see raccoons and enjoy marine life, and the Haulover Sandbar, a popular shallow spot perfect for swimming and relaxing in the water.
The celebrity sightings are a highlight—Billionaire’s Bunker Island, home to Tom Brady, Jeff Bezos, and others, is a major draw. We loved the way the guide points out these secret hideaways, giving you a glimpse into the luxurious lives of Miami’s elite. According to reviews, Captain Henry is super knowledgeable about Miami and its famous residents, which adds a layer of intrigue and education to the trip.
More Great Tours NearbyWildlife and Water Activities
Expect to see dolphins cruising through the bay waters—guests have noted that dolphin sightings are quite common. At the islands, snorkeling and swimming are possible, especially at Raccoon Island, which boasts marine life viewing opportunities. Bring your own towels and snacks, but the tour provides a cooler with ice and water—a small but appreciated touch.
The Sandbar and Raccoon Island
The Haulover Sandbar is the perfect spot to float, swim, or just soak up the sun. It’s a shallow, sandy expanse where marine life often appears. Raccoon Island, with its playful raccoons and marine surroundings, offers a more natural, wildlife-focused experience. Some reviews mention that the island was crowded, but that’s typical of popular spots. You might find that the fun lies in the interactions with wildlife and the lively water activity.
Additional Options and Customizations
You can always extend your trip—Captain Henry is flexible with time and route, which means you can add hours or explore specific areas. Optional extras like a paddleboard rental or drone video are available for an additional fee, offering more ways to capture your adventure.
Cost and Value
The captain fee is $80 per hour, which, when split among a group, makes for a good value. Fuel is included in the price, and the tour itself covers water, cooler, and floating mats. That said, some guests noted an additional tip for the captain (5-20%), which is customary and worth budgeting for.
What Past Guests Say
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of Captain Henry, with one describing him as “the best captain ever” who went above and beyond by helping with food delivery and shopping. Others mention that the views of Miami’s mansions and celebrity homes are spectacular, and the wildlife sightings made the experience memorable.
However, some have noted that not all stops included lengthy explanations of the homes or notable sites—if detailed commentary is essential, you might want to communicate that in advance.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Bring sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are musts.
- Pack towels and snacks: the tour provides water and ice, but you’ll want your own refreshments.
- Wear swimwear and be prepared to swim and snorkel.
- Bring your own alcohol: you’re welcome to bring beverages for a relaxed floating session.
- No high heels, pets, or sharp objects: for safety and comfort.
- Consider extending the tour if you want more time to explore or see additional sights.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This private Miami boat tour is ideal for small groups who value personalized experiences and want a blend of luxury, wildlife, and sightseeing. Families with kids who enjoy water activities will appreciate the safety and amenities. Friends looking for a fun, social way to see Miami’s coastline will find this trip memorable. It’s also perfect for anyone curious about Miami’s celebrity homes and secret islands, especially if you’re comfortable with a flexible, custom route.
If you’re after a relaxed, tailored day on the water and don’t mind the modest extra costs for customization or extras, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a good choice for those who want a stress-free, engaging way to see Miami’s waterfront without the hassle of grouper-sized crowds.
Final Thoughts
This private boat tour offers a balanced mix of luxury, wildlife, and personalized sightseeing that’s hard to beat in Miami. The knowledgeable guide, combined with a well-equipped boat and flexible itinerary, makes for a memorable outing that caters to your interests. Whether you’re eager to snap selfies with celebrity mansions, swim at a sandy sandbar, or just relax on the water, this experience provides a tailored, intimate perspective on Miami’s coast.
While some minor issues—like unclear pickup details or additional fees—may be worth noting, the overall value and positive reviews suggest this tour is a smart choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free, authentic Miami water adventure.
If you’re ready for a fun, customizable day on the bay with friendly guidance and superb views, then this tour deserves a spot on your Miami itinerary.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children are welcome, especially since the tour includes swimming and wildlife viewing. Just ensure children can handle a 3-hour boat ride comfortably.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, towels, snacks, and drinks. The tour provides water, ice, and amenities like a sound system and floating mats.
Can I extend the tour beyond three hours?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible. You can ask Captain Henry about adding more hours or customizing your route to see more sights.
Are pets allowed on the boat?
No, pets are not permitted, though assistance dogs are allowed.
What is the cost per person?
The tour cost includes the captain’s fee ($80/hour), fuel, water, and amenities. The total price will depend on the group size and any extras you choose.
Is parking available at the starting point?
Yes, there is free parking at Bill Bird Marina, making it convenient for those driving in.
What if I want to see dolphins?
Dolphin sightings are quite common, and your captain will do his best to spot them during your trip.
This private Miami boat tour offers a delightful way to see the city’s luxurious and natural sides. With customization options and positive guest feedback, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a unique, memorable adventure on the water.
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