Miami: Private speedboat tour with Star Island & sandbar

Summary

Speed through Biscayne Bay past Miami’s mansions & islands

You’ll ride a private speedboat through Miami’s Biscayne Bay with a local guide, passing Star Island’s famous homes and pausing to swim or chill at a sandbar. Expect stories about Miami’s past and present, plus time to soak up city views from the water — moments you’ll remember long after you’ve dried off.

What’s the experience like?

“You guys ready?” That’s how our captain, Luis, kicked things off as we climbed onto the boat at the marina near downtown Miami. I was still fumbling with my sunscreen and already sweating — Florida sun doesn’t mess around. The engine started up, kind of a low rumble, and suddenly we were gliding out into Biscayne Bay. There’s something about seeing the Miami skyline from the water that makes it feel almost unreal — all those glass towers reflecting back at us, while pelicans skimmed right over the surface like they owned the place.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a private speedboat tour in Miami. Luis pointed out Star Island and “Millionaire’s Row” — he had stories for every mansion (some probably true, some maybe not). At one point he slowed down so we could spot dolphins (we actually did see two fins pop up) and then cranked it up again so the wind whipped my hat off. We stopped by a sandbar where people were just hanging out waist-deep in the water, music playing from somewhere I couldn’t see. I jumped in too fast and got saltwater up my nose — classic me.

The best part? He let us decide if we wanted to linger or keep moving. We drifted near Palm Island for a bit, just watching paddleboarders and this one guy who waved at us like we were old friends. The air smelled like sunscreen and salt, with a hint of grilled something drifting over from South Beach. I tried to say “Biscayne” in Spanish and butchered it; Luis laughed but didn’t correct me. It felt easy — no rush, no crowds, just our little group and the city sliding by.

By the time we looped past South Pointe Park and saw all those pastel lifeguard stands lined up along South Beach, I realized I’d barely checked my phone once. There’s something about being out there that makes you forget about everything else for a while. I still think about that view coming back toward downtown as the sun started dipping — not dramatic or anything, just quietly perfect in its own way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Miami Speedboat Tour Highlights

• Private speedboat tour of Miami waterways
• View Miami city skyline and Millionaire's Row
• See Star Island, Palm and Hibiscus Islands
• Pass South Pointe Park and Pier
• Spot wildlife like dolphins and manatees
• Pass by South Beach lifeguard stands
• Stroll South Pointe Park boardwalk
• View Kaseya Center basketball arena
• Pass Lincoln Rd. Mall for shopping and dining
• Pass Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
• Pass Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
• Pass Miami Children's Museum
• Pass Cuban immigrant citizenship building

Top questions

How long is the private speedboat tour in Miami?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours on the water.

Does the Miami speedboat tour include swimming stops?

Yes, you can stop to swim or relax at a local sandbar or island during your tour.

Is this speedboat experience fully private?

Yes, it is a fully private boat tour for your group only.

Are drinks provided on board?

Bottled water is included; you can also bring your own drinks.

What sights will we see during this Biscayne Bay boat tour?

You’ll pass by Star Island, Millionaire's Row, Palm & Hibiscus Islands, South Pointe Park & more.

Is hotel pickup included for this Miami boat tour?

No hotel pickup is included; it’s recommended to arrive by taxi or rideshare due to limited parking.

Can infants join this private speedboat tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the ride.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes a fully private speedboat ride with a local guide through Biscayne Bay, bottled water kept cold in onboard coolers (and you can bring your own drinks), plus stops to swim or relax at sandbars or islands before returning to shore when you’re ready.