Miami: Private Boat Cruise Tour with Captain & Floating Mat

Summary

Miami boat cruise past celebrity homes and city lights with captain

You’ll cruise past Miami’s riverfront sights, get close to celebrity islands like Fisher Island and Star Island with your own captain guiding along, then anchor up to relax on a floating mat or play your favorite music. Small details — cool drinks, friendly stories from locals — make it feel personal. You might leave thinking about that sunset over Miami Beach for days.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely stepped onto the dock when our captain, Luis, grinned and asked if we were ready to see Miami “from the good side.” He handed us cold water bottles before we even finished introductions — maybe he could tell we were already melting in the sun. The boat felt bigger than I expected, and as soon as we pulled away from Brickell’s high-rises, the city noise faded under the sound of our playlist (Bluetooth works great, by the way). Luis pointed out a restaurant where he said Pitbull once bought drinks for everyone — not sure if that’s true or just local legend, but it made us laugh.

The Miami River was busier than I thought. Ferries sliding past, people waving from balconies. We cruised by Bayside Marketplace — you get this wide-open view of the Ferris wheel and the arena where the Heat play. It’s weirdly quiet out on the water compared to land. When we passed the giant cruise ships at Port of Miami (those things are massive up close), I tried to imagine what it’s like working on one for months. Luis told us about how Fisher Island used to be just for celebrities; now he says “everyone wants a piece.” We floated close enough to see fancy villas and someone’s little dog barking at us from a yacht deck.

We anchored near Star Island so we could try out the floating mat — honestly, I didn’t expect to love it but lying there with my feet in warm water and skyscrapers in the distance was oddly peaceful. Some boats nearby were having full-on parties; one had a guy grilling burgers right on deck (the smell drifted over and made us all hungry). There was even a food boat selling snacks if you wanted. We ended up drifting for a while, half-talking, half-listening to music. At some point I tried saying “thank you” in Spanish and totally butchered it — Luis just laughed and corrected me gently.

I still think about that moment on the mat — sky turning pink behind Miami Beach, breeze picking up just enough to make you wish you’d brought a light sweater. It felt like being part of the city but also outside of it somehow. If you’re looking for something private but not stiff or formal, this kind of day trip from Miami is pretty much spot on.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Miami private boat sightseeing tour

• View Miami River and Brickell area
• Cruise through Bayside Miami and ferris wheel
• See Port of Miami cruise ships
• View Miami Heat home arena from water
• Island hopping to see celebrity homes
• Tour exclusive celebrity island
• View luxury villas and taxi boats

Top questions

How many people can join the private boat cruise in Miami?

The private boat cruise accommodates up to 10 passengers per tour.

Is there a restroom onboard during the Miami boat tour?

Yes, there is a restroom available on board for guests’ convenience.

Are infants or small children allowed on this Miami boat trip?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Does this private boat tour include hotel pickup in Miami?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet at the designated dock location.

What sights are included on this private boat cruise from Miami?

You’ll see Miami River, Bayside Marketplace & Ferris Wheel, Port of Miami, Star Island, Millionaire’s Row & Fisher Island.

Is food provided during this private boat tour?

No meals are included; however, you may purchase food from boats selling snacks when anchored near other boats.

Can I bring my own music on board?

Yes, there is a premium Bluetooth audio system so you can play your own music during the cruise.

Are service animals allowed on this Miami private boat tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted onboard during your cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water kept cold in an onboard cooler with ice; access to a premium Bluetooth sound system so you can play your own music; use of a fun floating water mat (on 3- and 4-hour tours); plus restroom facilities right on board—everything set up for easygoing fun as you explore Miami’s riverfronts and islands by private boat with your group and local captain guiding along.