Miami Bay: Private 26ft Boat Rental & Island Stops

Summary

Private Miami boat rental for sandbars islands & city views

You’ll board your own private 26ft boat in Miami Bay, pop open champagne with friends, and cruise past Star Island’s famous homes before anchoring at sandbars or islands to swim or just drift awhile. With flexible captain options and all the essentials included, you’ll feel free to shape your day—and maybe forget about your phone for once.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was how the water in Biscayne Bay looked almost fake—so blue it hurt my eyes, and weirdly calm for Miami. We’d barely climbed onto the 26ft boat when someone from Bruschi’s team handed us a cold bottle of champagne (I fumbled with the cork, which got a laugh from everyone). The engine hummed underfoot as we drifted away from the dock, and suddenly downtown Miami felt far off, like we’d slipped out of the city without really trying.

Our captain—Luis, who knew every shortcut through these little channels—asked where we wanted to go. Someone shouted “Star Island!” so that’s where we headed first, gliding past those wild celebrity mansions. He pointed out one with a yellow jet ski tied up (“That’s Dwyane Wade’s place,” he said, though I still don’t know if he was joking). The breeze picked up and you could smell sunscreen and salt in the air. At one point we anchored near a sandbar; music thumped from another boat nearby but ours felt quiet except for our own laughter and clinking glasses.

I didn’t expect how much I’d love just floating there, toes dipping into warm water while clouds moved fast overhead. Luis told us about Picnic Island and Monument Island too—said we could stop wherever as long as we watched the time. There was this moment when I realized I hadn’t checked my phone in over an hour. Maybe it was the sun or maybe it was just being out there together, but it felt good to be a little lost on purpose.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat rental and Miami water tour

• Reserve 26' Sea Ray Sundeck boat
• Prepare drinks and food
• Depart with optional captain
• Tour celebrity houses and islands
• Visit sandbars and picnic spots
• Enjoy tailored stops within time

Top questions

How many people can fit on the Miami boat rental?

The 26ft Sea Ray Sundeck can accommodate up to 11 people.

Is a captain included in the Miami boat rental price?

No, you must select and pay for a captain separately according to USCG law.

What is included with the Miami boat rental?

Your rental includes one bottle of champagne, cooler with ice and water, use of the boat, and free parking nearby (not inside).

Can we book last minute for this Miami Bay boat tour?

Yes, Bruschi Boat Rental specializes in last-minute bookings with captains available within an hour.

Which destinations can we visit during our rental?

You can choose stops like Star Island, Venetian Way, Palm Island, Hibiscus Island, Sunset Harbour, Biscayne Bay celebrity homes, Picnic Island, Monument Island, Bear Cut Sandbar, Nixon Sandbar or Marine Stadium.

Do I need to sign anything before boarding?

The lead traveler must sign a Bareboat Charter Agreement before departure.

Are infants or service animals allowed on board?

Yes, infants (in strollers) and service animals are allowed on board.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a private 26ft Sea Ray Sundeck boat around Miami Bay for up to 11 guests—with one bottle of champagne ready on ice when you board—a cooler stocked with ice and water for whatever else you bring along. Free parking is available nearby (just not inside), and you’ll pick your own captain before heading out to whichever islands or sandbars catch your eye.