Miami: Millionaire Homes Sightseeing Cruise & Biscayne Bay

Summary

Celebrity homes, mega yachts and Biscayne Bay breeze on Miami’s water

You’ll ride a sightseeing cruise through Biscayne Bay with a local guide sharing stories about Miami’s celebrity mansions and mega yachts. Feel the city’s energy from Fisher Island to Star Island while soaking up skyline views—and maybe catch yourself imagining life behind those gates.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell—salty, with a hint of sunscreen in the air as we waited behind Victoria’s Secret for our boarding passes at Bayside Marketplace. It felt like everyone was buzzing, half locals chatting in Spanish, half tourists like me craning for a glimpse of the boats. Our guide switched easily between English and Spanish, joking about who might be home on Star Island (spoiler: probably not Gloria Estefan today). I didn’t expect to laugh that much before we even left the dock.

Once we pulled away from the shore, the skyline just kind of unfolded—glass towers catching the sun in every direction. The boat glided past these wild mega yachts at Miami Beach Marina (I counted six jet skis on one deck—seriously). The commentary was casual but sharp; when we floated by Al Capone’s old mansion on Palm Island, our guide pointed out the faded art deco tiles near the waterline. There was this weird quiet as everyone tried to imagine what it’d be like to live there. Someone behind me said, “I’d just have parties all day,” which made a few people laugh.

I liked Fisher Island best—it’s only reachable by ferry or helicopter, and you can’t really see much except manicured palms and flashes of white stucco through the trees. Still, it felt oddly peaceful compared to the rest of Miami’s noise. The breeze picked up as we circled back toward downtown, passing cruise ships so big they blocked part of the skyline. I caught myself thinking how different Miami looks from out here—less chaotic, more like a movie set with all these layers stacked together. I still think about that view sometimes when I hear seagulls back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Miami Millionaires Sightseeing Cruise

• Check in at Bayride Ticket Kiosk
• Board sightseeing boat
• See Palm Islands and Al Capone's mansion
• View mansions of Hibiscus Island
• See waterfront homes of Venetian Islands
• Observe mega yachts at Miami Beach Marina
• View exclusive Fisher Island
• See Port of Miami with cruise and cargo ships
• Enjoy Downtown Miami Skyline views
• See Star Island Millionaires Row

Top questions

Where does the Miami Millionaires Sightseeing Cruise depart?

The cruise departs from Bayside Marketplace; check in at the Bayride Ticket Kiosk behind Victoria's Secret for your boarding pass.

How long is the sightseeing cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Is there bilingual commentary on board?

Yes, narration is provided in both English and Spanish during the tour.

What attractions are included on this Miami sightseeing cruise?

You’ll see Fisher Island, Palm Islands (including Al Capone’s mansion), Hibiscus Island, Venetian Islands, Miami Beach Marina with mega yachts, Port of Miami, Downtown Miami skyline, and Star Island.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; admission covers your seat on the vessel for the sightseeing cruise only.

Are infants or strollers allowed on board?

Yes, infants can ride in a pram or stroller but must sit on an adult's lap during the tour.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to Bayside Marketplace.

Do I need to arrive early for check-in?

You should arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to receive your physical ticket at the kiosk.

What’s included

Your tour includes admission for a 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise around Biscayne Bay with bilingual narration by a local guide; you’ll need to check in 30 minutes early at Bayside Marketplace for your boarding pass before setting off past celebrity homes and iconic Miami landmarks.