Miami Biscayne Bay: Jet Ski Tour with Wildlife Sighting

Summary

Jet ski through Miami’s vibrant Biscayne Bay waters with wildlife

You’ll jump straight into Miami’s Biscayne Bay on a jet ski with a local guide leading the way—expect salt spray, skyline views, and maybe even dolphins or manatees crossing your path. There’s plenty of time to find your speed (or just laugh at yourself), and all fuel and safety gear are included. It’s more fun than you’d guess until you’re actually out there.

What’s the experience like?

We were already wobbling on the dock when our guide, Carlos, handed over the life jackets—he grinned like he’d seen a hundred nervous first-timers before. The sun was sharp but not too hot yet, and there was this salty tang in the air mixed with sunscreen (mine, mostly). I fumbled with the straps while my friend tried to look cool revving the jet ski. Carlos just laughed and showed us how to actually start it—turns out you can’t just press every button at once.

Once we got going, Biscayne Bay opened up fast—blue water everywhere, with Miami’s skyline kind of shimmering behind us. The jet ski felt bouncy at first, then smoother as I found a rhythm. There was this moment where a pelican skimmed right past us—so close I could see its weird dinosaur eyes. Carlos pointed out some fancy houses along the shore (“That one’s owned by someone famous—I forget who”), but honestly I was more focused on not falling off. He kept checking in from his own jet ski, waving or calling out tips over the engine noise.

I didn’t expect to actually see dolphins but suddenly there they were—three of them popping up near our path. It was quick but real; I almost forgot to breathe for a second. We slowed down by some mangroves and Carlos explained how manatees sometimes hang out here (we spotted one’s nose for half a second). The water felt warm if you let your hand drag through it. By the time we looped back toward the dock, my arms were jelly and my face hurt from grinning so much. If you’re thinking about a day trip jet skiing around Miami from Biscayne Bay… well, just do it. I still think about that sunlight bouncing off the water.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet Ski tour around Miami waters

• Meet your knowledgeable tour guide
• Receive safety briefing and instructions
• Pass Temporary Safe Boating Test if required
• Ride jet ski in Atlantic Ocean
• Follow guide through Biscayne Bay
• Spot wildlife like dolphins and manatees
• Enjoy thrilling jet ski experience

Top questions

Do I need experience to join this Miami jet ski tour?

No prior experience is needed; guides give instructions before starting and check in throughout the tour.

Are dolphins or manatees guaranteed on this Biscayne Bay tour?

No wildlife sightings are guaranteed, but dolphins and manatees are often seen during tours.

How many people can ride each jet ski?

Each jet ski holds 1 or 2 people; pricing is per jet ski.

Is there an age limit for driving or riding?

You must be at least 18 years old to drive; passengers must be at least 10 years old.

What do I need to bring for this day trip from Miami?

If born after January 1, 1988, bring ID for a boating test; otherwise just bring yourself—life jackets are provided.

Does this tour include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the departure point near Biscayne Bay.

Is lunch included in this Miami jet ski tour?

No meals are included; only fuel and life jackets are provided.

What’s included

Your outing includes all fuel for your jet ski adventure plus life jackets for everyone riding along; just show up ready for sun and water—the rest is handled by your local guide team before you set off across Biscayne Bay.