Palm Beach: Island Cruise on the Intracoastal

If you’re eyeing a relaxing, scenic way to see some of Florida’s most glamorous coastline, the Palm Beach: Island Cruise on the Intracoastal offers a solid option. This 1.5-hour boat ride from Riviera Beach promises a blend of historic intrigue, celebrity spotting, and luxurious scenery without breaking the bank.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, the knowledgeable guides who weave stories about the islands’ famous residents and landmarks. Second, the stunning views of mansions, yachts, and the coastline itself. Still, a quick heads-up: if you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility issues, this might not be your best fit. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, history, and a touch of luxury in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Comfortable, spacious boat ensures a relaxed experience.
• Expert guides share engaging stories about the area’s history and residents.
• Highlights include Peanut Island’s bunker and the luxurious mansions along Palm Beach.
• Complimentary drinks keep you refreshed, with options to bring your own snacks or beverages.
• Duration of 1.5 hours makes it a quick but memorable outing.
• Meeting point at Slip P14 in Riviera Beach is straightforward to find.

What’s included in this tour?
For $65 per person, you get a knowledgeable tour guide, a comfortable and spacious boat, and complimentary bottled water and soft drinks. This setup strikes a good balance between value and experience. It’s not a fancy dinner cruise, but rather a laid-back, informative ride perfect for anyone who appreciates scenic views with a bit of storytelling.

What’s not included?
You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, at Slip P14 in front of the Rafiki Tiki Restaurant/Event Center. There’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included, so plan accordingly. The meeting point is easily accessible by car, and the boat (named Kyalami Too) is easy to spot—a red and white vessel with matching cushions makes it stand out.

Embarking from Riviera Beach, you’ll board the boat, which is designed to maximize comfort and visibility. The friendly guides will kick things off with an overview of the islands’ history and contemporary allure.

First stop: Peanut Island. This iconic site isn’t just a pretty patch of sand—it’s home to a fascinating piece of Cold War history. You’ll see the entrance to JFK’s secret, underground bunker, built during the Cold War as a safeguard for the president. The guide’s storytelling makes this a highlight, and the sight of the bunker entrance from the water adds a dash of intrigue. As one reviewer noted, “Guide was very knowledgeable about the area,” and this particular feature stood out for many.

Next, the cruise takes you along Palm Beach Island itself. Here, you’ll see some of the most impressive mansions and yachts on the East Coast. The coastline is lined with estates that range from classic Mediterranean to modern glass-and-steel marvels. If you’re a fan of luxury homes or just love waterfront scenery, you’ll appreciate how close you’ll get to these private retreats. Keep your camera ready—“You never know what you’ll see,” as another traveler observed.

Throughout the journey, the guides share stories about the famous residents past and present—a fun way to connect the scenery with local lore. Whether it’s the historic Hollywood stars or current celebrities, the tales add a layer of charm to each sighting.

Seating and comfort:
The boat’s ample space and cushioned seats ensure you can relax and enjoy the ride. The duration—just 1.5 hours—keeps it light enough for most travelers’ schedules but long enough to soak in the scenery. For music, a quiet, scenic cruise offers a peaceful escape from the hustle.

Refreshments:
As noted by travelers, complimentary bottled water and soft drinks are provided. Many bring along snacks or even a small bottle of wine—it’s a relaxed environment. Just remember, no smoking is allowed, and you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen to handle the sunny, outdoor environment.

Reviews highlight the informative nature of the guides and the overall pleasure of being on the water. Jim from the U.S. rated it a perfect 5/5, calling it “a wonderful, relaxing tour on the water,” and Sandra from the UK appreciated the fabulous narration and the opportunity to BYOB.

Another traveler, John, found the descriptions and interesting points provided by the guide to be very well thought out, while Afiya N. called it simply “informative and relaxing.” The consistent praise for the guides’ knowledge and the quality of the views makes it clear that this is a tour that delivers more than just a boat ride; it’s an educational experience wrapped in leisure.

Accessibility and suitability:
Given the nature of the tour, it’s best for those comfortable on a boat, and not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility issues. If seasickness is a concern, prepare accordingly or consider this before booking.

At $65, this cruise offers a fairly affordable way to explore some of Florida’s most exclusive waterfronts. You’re paying for not just the scenery, but also the stories that bring these places to life—something you can’t get from a simple drive-by. The inclusion of drinks and the chance to learn about JFK’s bunker make it a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re interested in history and celebrity culture.

Compared to other tours that might focus only on luxury or sightseeing, this one balances informative content with relaxation. The boat’s spacious, stable design offers comfort, and the friendly guides keep the atmosphere engaging without feeling rushed.

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic experience with a touch of history and luxury. Families with older kids, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy storytelling and water views will find this a good fit. If you’re into celebrity homes, Cold War history, or just want a relaxing way to see the coast, this tour hits the mark.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, seasickness, or small children who might not enjoy a boat ride of this duration. Also, if you’re looking for a more active or extensive tour, you might want to consider other options.

The Palm Beach: Island Cruise on the Intracoastal provides a charming blend of scenery, history, and luxury without the hefty price tag. It’s a great way to get a feel for the opulence and stories behind some of Florida’s most famous waterfronts in a short, enjoyable trip.

Travelers who appreciate good storytelling, stunning views, and a leisurely pace will find this tour well worth the time. It’s especially perfect if you want an authentic experience with insights from expert guides, complemented by the beauty of the coast and the intrigue of Cold War secrets.

For those seeking a friendly, informative, and scenic water adventure, this cruise hits the sweet spot—just remember to bring your camera, hat, and a sense of curiosity.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet at Slip P14 in Riviera Beach.

How long is the tour?
The boat ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable trip that won’t take up your whole day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. If you wish to enjoy snacks or adult beverages, you can bring your own.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, complimentary bottled water and soft drinks are included.

Can I bring my own snacks or wine?
Absolutely. The tour encourages bringing your own snacks, beverages, or even wine, as long as they’re non-alcoholic or adult beverages.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s a relaxed, family-friendly experience, small children or those prone to seasickness might find it less suitable. Check your family’s comfort on boats.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility impairments?
It’s not specified, but given the nature of boat tours, it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

What is the best time of day to go?
The tour is usually available in the afternoon and evening, perfect for catching the sunset or avoiding the midday sun.

What do I see during the tour?
Expect to see the entrance to JFK’s secret bunker on Peanut Island, luxurious mansions, yachts, and the scenic coastline—plus plenty of stories to add context to each view.

Whether you’re a history buff, a luxury scenery lover, or simply after a relaxing way to see Palm Beach’s coast, this boat tour offers a practical, enjoyable experience that’s hard to beat for the price.