Miami Boat Tour: Private Yacht Cruise with Captain & Skyline Views

Summary

Private Miami cruise past Fisher Island & Bayside Marketplace

You’ll feel Miami’s energy shift as you cruise past Fisher Island’s mansions and Bayside Marketplace’s buzz on your private captained boat tour. With skyline views, music playing, and time to float or swim off the side, it’s both lively and oddly peaceful — a memory that lingers long after you dock.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was mostly curious about what Miami would look like from the water — not just the skyline, but the whole mood of it. When we climbed aboard our private boat at the marina (I nearly tripped over my own flip-flops), the captain grinned and told us to make ourselves at home. There was a salty tang in the air and this low hum from the engine as we pulled away, which kind of set the tone. It’s funny how quickly you forget about your phone when you’re out there.

The city looks different from Biscayne Bay — taller somehow, but also softer around the edges. Our captain pointed out Fisher Island (“that’s where some of those crazy mansions are,” he said, squinting) and slowed down so we could actually see some of them. I tried to guess who lived where, but honestly, I was more interested in watching pelicans glide along beside us. The whole time there was music playing through the Bluetooth system — someone put on Gloria Estefan and it just felt right.

We drifted past Bayside Marketplace, which was buzzing even from a distance — people waving from restaurants, boats zipping by with kids laughing too loud. At one point we got close to PortMiami and saw these massive cruise ships lined up like floating cities. The captain had stories about each one; apparently he used to work on one years ago (“never again,” he said, shaking his head). We anchored for a bit so we could use this giant floating mat — I wasn’t going to get in at first (the water looked cold), but then everyone else did and I caved. It was actually warmer than I expected.

Two hours went by fast. When we headed back toward the marina, there was that golden late afternoon light hitting everything just right — made me wish I’d taken more photos but also glad I didn’t spend the whole time behind a screen. If you’re thinking about booking a private boat tour in Miami with friends or family… well, you might end up remembering it for reasons you didn’t expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Miami private boat tour highlights

• Embark on boat rental experience
• Enjoy floating water mat
• View Miami skyline and Brickell City Centre
• See Port of Miami cruise ships
• Pass by Bayside Marketplace
• Glide past Fisher Island mansions

Top questions

How many people can join the private Miami boat tour?

The private boat tour can accommodate up to 12 passengers.

Is there a restroom available on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on the boat.

Are drinks provided during the Miami boat tour?

Bottled water is included for guests during the tour.

What sights do you see on this Miami boat cruise?

You’ll see Fisher Island mansions, Bayside Marketplace, PortMiami cruise ships, and city skyline views.

Is music available during the private yacht tour?

Yes, there’s a Bluetooth music system onboard for guests to use.

Can children or older adults join this Miami boat trip?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Are service animals allowed on this private boat tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.

Does the Miami boat rental include any fun equipment?

A complimentary 12ft floating water mat is included for swimming or relaxing in the bay.

What’s included

Your two-hour trip includes bottled water to keep cool under that Florida sun, a cooler packed with ice if you bring extra drinks or snacks, access to an onboard restroom for comfort, Bluetooth speakers for your favorite playlist, and a big floating mat if anyone wants to jump in or just lounge in Biscayne Bay before heading back ashore.