Miami Biscayne Bay: Private Boat Tour with Captain & Sandbar Stop

Summary

Private boat ride miami biscayne bay sandbar dolphins music food

You’ll glide across Biscayne Bay on your own private boat tour with a local captain, spotting dolphins or manatees along the way. Swim or wade at Haulover Sandbar, enjoy music and drinks onboard (bring your own snacks), and maybe grab lunch at a waterfront spot before heading back with salt on your skin and Miami in your head.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound—water slapping against the hull as we pulled away from the dock in Miami. Our captain, Jorge, had this easy way about him, like he’s done this a thousand times but still gets a kick out of it. He cranked up some salsa on the Bluetooth speakers and handed us cold bottled water from the cooler. The city skyline slid behind us and suddenly it was just blue everywhere—sky above, bay below, sunlight bouncing off everything.

I didn’t expect to see so many wild things so close to all those million-dollar houses. Jorge pointed out a manatee (“look for the nose!”) and then, just past a bend, two dolphins surfaced right near our boat. It was quiet for a second except for someone’s laugh—I think it was mine. We slowed down by Haulover Sandbar where you could smell sunscreen and grilled shrimp drifting over from another boat. The water was warm and shallow enough to wade out with your drink (plastic cups only—Jorge’s rule). Someone tried to teach me how to say “cheers” in Spanish and I probably messed it up.

We could’ve packed food but ended up stopping at this waterfront place Jorge likes—he knows which ones serve fast if you’re hungry or want to take something back on board. The sun kept shifting between clouds and bright heat; I got a little sunburned but honestly didn’t care. There was this moment when everyone just sort of went quiet watching the light hit the water—felt like time slowed down right there. I still think about that view sometimes, especially when I hear salsa music now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour and sandbar relaxation

• Drive 30 minutes to dock
• Admire million dollar properties
• Board private luxury yacht
• Explore Miami waters
• Swim and relax at sandbar
• Look for dolphins and wildlife
• Eat and drink on board

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Miami Biscayne Bay private boat tour?

No, pickup is not included; you meet at the dock for boarding.

Can we bring our own food and drinks on the boat?

Yes, you can bring food, beverages, and alcohol onboard.

Are children allowed on this private boat tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.

Will we see dolphins or manatees during the tour?

You might spot wild dolphins or manatees in Biscayne Bay if you're lucky.

Is there music on board?

Yes, there are Bluetooth speakers for music during your tour.

How long does it take to reach Haulover Sandbar?

It takes about 30 minutes by boat from the dock to Haulover Sandbar.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are permitted on board.

Can we stop at restaurants or bars during the trip?

The captain can stop at many waterfront restaurants or bars within Biscayne Bay if you wish.

What’s included

Your day includes a private yacht with licensed captain, bottled water, plastic cups for drinks, Bluetooth speakers for your playlist, plus coolers filled with ice so you can keep anything you bring chilled throughout your time on Miami’s Biscayne Bay.