Boca Raton offers a surprising variety of water-based excursions, from relaxing boat trips to adventurous speed cruises. Whether you’re interested in exploring Miami’s vibrant neighborhoods via a scenic train and bus tour or cruising Boca Raton’s waterways with snorkeling and tubing, this area has something for every type of traveler.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of the two best options: a full-day trip combining high-speed train travel and a Miami city tour, and a dynamic boat adventure with options for snorkeling and tubing. Each offers a distinct experience—one emphasizing urban exploration and scenic views, the other marine fun and water sports. We’ll help you understand what makes each stand out, so you can pick the right adventure for your interests and schedule.
1. Boca Raton to Miami on High Speed Train with City Tour
This day trip kicks off with a ride on the sleek Brightline train, taking you from Boca Raton to Miami in about an hour. The train itself is a comfortable way to enjoy the scenery and avoid traffic. Once in Miami, the adventure continues with a double-decker bus tour that allows you to hop on and off at key spots like South Beach, Little Havana, and Lincoln Road. The flexibility to explore at your own pace makes this a practical choice for those who want a taste of Miami’s most iconic neighborhoods.
The tour’s highlight is the open-air double-decker bus, which offers spectacular views of Miami’s vibrant streets. The route includes passing through South Beach on Collins Avenue, with opportunities to see famous shops and restaurants. While the price of $149.99 per person might seem steep for a day trip, it includes scenic train transportation, a guided city tour, and plenty of photo opportunities. This experience appeals to travelers who enjoy a mix of comfortable travel and urban sightseeing, with a touch of Miami’s lively culture.
Key highlights include the scenic train ride, the open-air bus tour, and the chance to explore neighborhoods like Little Havana and South Beach. The flexibility to hop on and off helps you customize your day. However, it’s worth noting that since the review count is zero, some travelers might want to check recent feedback before booking.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a straightforward, comfortable way to combine travel and sightseeing, this tour offers a solid mix. It’s ideal for those who like a structured day with plenty of photo stops and urban exploration.
2. Boca Raton: 23ft Boat Tour with Snorkeling/Tubing/Island
For those craving a more active, marine-focused experience, this scenic boat tour stands out. Starting with a speedy 23-foot boat, the tour explores Boca Raton’s waterways, offering vistas of multimillion-dollar mansions and pristine coastal scenery. The option to snorkel at vibrant spots and tubing on a 4-person tube makes it a fun choice for families or groups seeking adventure.
The tour lasts between 2 and 8 hours, giving flexibility based on what you want to do. It includes a scenic cruise that feels like gliding through your own private slice of paradise, with options to snorkel among colorful marine life or relax at a popular sandbar at Lake Boca Raton. The $535 group price for up to six people provides good value—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family, as it breaks down to about $89 per person for a full day of water fun.
This tour has a perfect mix of speed and relaxation—you get the thrill of an open ocean cruise with opportunities for snorkeling and tubing, which makes it particularly appealing to active travelers. The reviews highlight how accommodating and patient Nelson, the guide, is, with one saying, “Our family of four had a great time and the trip was catered to what we wanted.”
Potential drawbacks? The price is higher than some might expect, but the personalized experience and the variety of activities justify the cost for water enthusiasts. It’s best suited for groups who want a full day of marine adventure and don’t mind the higher price point.
Bottom Line: This boat tour offers a lively, customizable aquatic adventure, perfect for families or groups looking to combine speed, snorkeling, and relaxation on Boca Raton’s beautiful waters.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding, consider your budget, interests, and available time. The Miami city tour (Tour #1) is best if you want to combine urban sightseeing with comfortable transportation, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed pace. It’s also ideal if you’re curious about Miami’s neighborhoods and culture.
The boat tour (Tour #2), on the other hand, suits travelers who want a hands-on marine experience with plenty of options for snorkeling, tubing, and enjoying Boca Raton’s waterways. It’s more active and requires a higher budget but offers a more immersive aquatic adventure.
Booking early is wise, especially for the boat tour, which can fill up during peak seasons. Check availability and start times, as the boat trip duration varies.
Final Thoughts
Boca Raton’s water-based options are diverse. For a mix of urban exploration and scenic travel, the Miami day trip with train and bus offers a relaxed but comprehensive taste of Miami’s highlights. For pure water fun, the speedboat adventure with snorkeling and tubing provides an energetic, personalized experience on Boca Raton’s stunning waterways.
For travelers with limited time, the Miami tour delivers a lot in one day. Groups seeking adventure and marine life will find the boat tour more rewarding. Either way, planning ahead and booking early will ensure you get the experience that best fits your style. Now, just choose your adventure and get ready to enjoy Boca Raton’s scenic side.