Miami: Private Boat Charter with Captain & Island Stops

Summary

Cruise miami river and biscayne bay on a private boat with captain, music and island stops for swimming

You’ll glide past Miami’s iconic islands and skyline on your own private boat charter with captain—music playing, drinks chilling in your cooler, and time to swim off Monument Island or just float under the sun. Expect laughter, local stories, city views you can’t get from land—and maybe a new favorite way to see Miami.

What’s the experience like?

We were already laughing before we even left the dock in Miami — trying to wrangle our cooler (too full, obviously) and figuring out how to stash our shoes in the basket like the captain said. The sun was high but not brutal yet, and there was this salty smell mixed with sunscreen that just screams “Florida.” Our captain, Carlos, waved us aboard the SeaRay and immediately put on some old-school salsa that made my aunt start dancing before we’d even untied the ropes. I didn’t expect to feel so at home right away.

Cruising down the Miami River felt like being in some kind of movie — skyscrapers on one side, graffiti walls on the other, boats everywhere. Carlos pointed out Star Island (“that’s where J.Lo used to live — or maybe still does?”) and told us about growing up nearby. The water had that weird blue-green color you only see in Miami photos, except it’s real. We passed Bayside Marketplace with people waving from the docks, and then Biscayne Bay just opened up wide in front of us. There was this moment when everything went quiet except for the sound of water slapping against the hull — I still think about that view sometimes.

We anchored near Monument Island for a swim (the 3-hour “Sip & Island Stop” option). The floating mat was a hit — my cousin tried to do yoga on it and ended up flipping over, which got everyone howling. I floated on my back watching planes crawl across the sky over Fisher Island. It’s wild how close you are to all these crazy mansions but also how chill it feels out there. Carlos handed us bottled water from the cooler and let us play our own playlist through the boat speakers (regret: letting my brother DJ for too long). There’s a restroom onboard too — not glamorous but honestly a lifesaver after two hours sipping rosé in the sun.

On the way back we caught some pinkish light hitting Palm Island’s houses, and I realized I hadn’t checked my phone once since we left shore. That never happens. We said goodbye to Carlos at sunset — he gave us this little nod like he knew we’d remember it. So yeah… if you’re looking for a private boat charter in Miami that actually feels personal (and lets you bring your own snacks), this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour of Miami landmarks

• Tour Miami River and city sights
• Cruise Biscayne Bay and waterfront
• Pass Hibiscus Island luxury homes
• Explore Palm Island estates
• View mansions on Star Island
• Cruise exclusive Fisher Island

Top questions

How long does the private Miami boat charter last?

You can choose 2-, 3-, or 4-hour options depending on your group’s vibe.

Is there a restroom onboard during the Miami boat tour?

Yes—there’s a restroom available on board for all durations.

Can we bring our own drinks or snacks?

Yep! The tour is BYOB; there’s even a cooler with ice waiting for you.

Does this private boat tour include swimming stops?

The 3-hour “Sip & Island Stop” includes time anchored at Monument Island for swimming.

Is pickup included for this Miami private boat experience?

No hotel pickup—the meeting point is near downtown Miami with free street parking around if you arrive early.

Are infants or small children allowed on board?

Yes—infants and small children can join (even with strollers), as long as total passengers don’t exceed 10.

Do I need to pay extra for fuel or captain?

The price includes both captain and fuel—they’re provided but paid separately at check-in.

What should I bring for this Miami boat charter?

Sunscreen (apply before boarding), drinks/snacks if you want them, sunglasses—and maybe your best playlist!

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water, use of a cooler with ice for your own drinks or snacks (BYOB), access to a premium sound system so you can play your own music, use of a floating water mat for swimming stops, plus an onboard restroom—all hosted by a professional captain who’ll guide you through Miami’s waterways before returning to shore together.