The 12 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Florida
Florida’s coastlines give you more than just sandy beaches and sunny skies—they offer a vibrant array of cruises and boat tours that bring the water’s edge right into your vacation. Whether you want to sip champagne on a luxury yacht in Miami, hunt for dolphins along Clearwater’s shoreline, or explore the remote barrier islands by powerboat, Florida has a boat adventure for every interest. The variety is staggering: private yacht rentals, wildlife excursions, sunset cruises, and even full-day island-hopping trips.
In this guide, we’ll walk through twelve top-rated options, highlighting what makes each special. From a private Miami Beach yacht rental that lets you tailor your day on the water, to a Cayo Costa trip that combines shelling, dolphin sightings, and historic island charm, you’ll find detailed insights to help you pick the perfect trip. We’ll cover costs, duration, group size, and the kind of experience each offers, so you can choose the cruise that fits your style—and your budget.
1. Island Fun Yacht Rental in Miami Beach
If you’re dreaming of a private getaway in the heart of Miami, this Island Fun Yacht Rental provides a perfect escape. For around $885 per group up to 10 people, you get four hours aboard a fully equipped 40-foot Cruiser Yacht with a private bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and Bluetooth speakers for your playlist. The boat comes with life jackets and water, making it easy to relax or play in the water with the floating water mat.
What sets this apart is the personalized experience—you choose your start time, and the captain handles the navigation, leaving you free to enjoy the skyline, splash on the water, or just soak up the sun. It’s ideal for couples, families, or groups wanting privacy and flexibility. The captain’s fees are extra, so budget accordingly. A couple of reviews mention how memorable it was to see Miami’s glittering skyline from the water.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, flexible day on the water that’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just escaping the crowds.
2. 3-hour Private Boat Tour in Clearwater Florida Up to 6 People
This 3-hour private boat tour in Clearwater is a fantastic way to see the area’s pristine beaches and wildlife. For $580 per group, up to 6 people, you’ll cruise around Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island, and other hot spots, looking for dolphins and other marine life. You can customize your route and pace, making it ideal for families or friends who want a personal touch.
Expect to anchor at sandbars for swimming, shelling, and soaking up the sun. The captain can tailor the experience to your interests, whether that’s wildlife watching, relaxing at a quiet spot, or exploring local islands. Reviewers rave about the engaging hosts and the chance to walk on Caladesi Island or spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
Bottom Line: A flexible, intimate experience that mixes wildlife viewing with beach fun, great for those who want control over their day on the water.
3. 65ft Yacht Charter in Miami
For a splurge that’s all about celebrating a milestone or just enjoying Miami’s skyline in style, the 65ft Yacht Charter delivers. Starting around $1,080 for up to 13 guests, this tour offers three to four hours of luxury cruising, with options to customize your event—be it a birthday, a family gathering, or even a romantic sunset.
The yacht’s amenities include comfortable seating, space for food and drinks, and the chance to see Miami’s iconic views, including the glittering cityscape and possibly some celebrity homes. Past guests appreciated the excellent service and the ability to host a private celebration. The boat can be decorated for special events, making it perfect for a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: A luxury option ideal for those celebrating something special or wanting a high-end day on the water.
4. Cayo Costa Private Power Boat Experience
This Cayo Costa private tour offers a full day of beachcombing, wildlife, and island history for $450 per group up to 4. The 4.5-hour trip cruises to Cabbage Key for lunch and then to Cayo Costa for shelling and swimming. Dolphins are common, and the trip includes beach chairs, bottled water, and ice.
What makes this tour special is its mix of history—Cabbage Key’s old Florida charm—and nature with beach time and wildlife spotting. You can walk the trails, enjoy a meal at the historic inn, or swim off the boat. The boat ride itself is fast-paced and flexible, suitable for small groups looking for an adventurous, all-day escape.
Review: “Absolutely amazing!!!! Captain Randi was the best boat captain I have ever had.” – 5/5.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a mix of history, wildlife, and island relaxation in a private setting.
5. Premium Miami Yacht Tour Experience: Captain, Champagne & Party!
If you’re after a lively, upscale experience, this Miami yacht tour is your ticket. For $50 per person, you can enjoy four hours aboard a luxury vessel with champagne, music, and plenty of space for dancing or relaxing. The tour highlights include views of Miami’s celebrity homes, dolphin sightings, and a stop at a sandbar or island for fun.
The experience is ideal for celebrating birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or just indulging in a glamorous day on the water. Past guests note how well the crew caters to groups, with one saying, “Great hosts who were so welcoming and have a great vibe.” The main drawback is that this is a shorter, more party-focused trip, so it might not suit those seeking a quiet day.
Bottom Line: A lively, festive option for social groups and party lovers wanting a taste of Miami’s opulence.
6. Everglades National Park: 3 Hikes + 90-minute Boat Tour + Lunch
For wildlife enthusiasts, this Everglades tour combines hiking and boating in a single day. At $275 per person, and about 8 hours, it’s a full immersion into one of America’s most iconic ecosystems. Led by a Florida Master Naturalist, the tour explores three habitats, with a 90-minute boat trip to spot alligators, manatees, and wading birds.
The experience is educational and active—perfect for nature lovers or families with kids who want more than just a boat ride. The guide provides detailed commentary on the flora and fauna, making the trip engaging and informative. The highlight is the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat while learning about the area’s ecological importance.
Review: “A great place to go and get close to nature. It is a nice leisurely trip for all ages to enjoy.” – 5/5.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with an interest in ecology and wildlife, looking for a full day of exploration.
7. Sailing into the Sunset on a Personalized Luxury Yacht Charter
Watch the sunset from the deck of a 68-foot Azimut on this luxury sunset cruise. For around $3,900 per group, up to 13 guests, you get four hours of personalized service, with the boat decorated for your occasion. The cruise takes you past Haulover Sandbar, Miami’s famous party spot, and offers breathtaking views of the skyline.
This experience is best suited for those celebrating something special—anniversaries, milestone birthdays, or just a desire for a high-end, relaxed evening. The reviews highlight the personalized attention and the stunning vistas. Be prepared for a significant investment, but the privacy and luxury are unmatched.
Bottom Line: Perfect for large groups celebrating in style, seeking a private, scenic, and luxurious evening.
8. 2-hour Private Boat Tour in Clearwater Florida
If your schedule is tight but you still want a taste of Clearwater’s waterways, this 2-hour private tour offers a quick, focused experience. For $350 per group, up to 6 people, you’ll cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, look for dolphins, and possibly catch the sunset.
It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense trip that offers all the fun of wildlife and water views without the longer commitment. This tour works well for small groups wanting a relaxed, intimate outing or a quick overview of Clearwater’s scenic waterways.
Review: “Come see the best of Clearwater on a PRIVATE boat tour! We saw dolphins and enjoyed a peaceful cruise.” – 5/5.
Bottom Line: Great for a brief, private escape—especially if you’re short on time but want to see marine life.
9. DeLeon Springs River Boat Tour
For a gentle, scenic ride, the DeLeon Springs River Tour offers a 50-minute float through Spring Garden Creek. At just $20.24 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty. The open-sided pontoon boat offers unobstructed views of Spring Garden Lake, Jones Island, and nearby wildlife.
The tour provides on-board commentary about the area’s ecosystem and history, making it both relaxing and educational. It’s especially good for families or travelers who want a low-impact, scenic experience without breaking the bank.
Review: “The tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly. A nice leisurely trip for all ages.” – 5/5.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, affordable way to experience wildlife and scenery on the water.
10. Sunset and Night Cruise of the Miami Bay Skyline on a Yacht
Experience Miami’s skyline differently with this sunset and night cruise. For $125 per person, you’ll sail in the late afternoon and into the evening, just in time to see the iconic pink sunset over Miami Bay. The three-hour trip offers stunning views, a relaxed atmosphere, and a chance to enjoy your own snacks and drinks aboard.
It’s perfect for anyone wanting to see Miami’s dazzling cityscape under the stars. The reviews praise the professional captain and the beautiful scenery, making it a memorable way to end a day in Florida. Be aware that this is a more laid-back experience, suitable for those comfortable with a casual cruise.
Bottom Line: A romantic and scenic way to see Miami from the water at sunset, ideal for couples or small groups.
11. Miami Beach Swim and Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise Aboard a Yacht
For a mix of sightseeing and fun, this Miami Beach yacht cruise offers a chance to see ultra-luxury mansions, with the option to swim in shallow waters. At $125 per person, the 3-hour trip combines a scenic cruise along Miami’s bay with a stop for swimming and dolphin spotting.
Past guests note the luxury of the yacht and the chance to relax and take in Miami’s famous waters. It’s especially suited for those who want an active, engaging experience with water fun thrown in. The main drawback is the limited number of reviews, but the consistent praise suggests a quality trip.
Bottom Line: An engaging combo of sightseeing and swimming, great for families or groups who want both relaxation and activity.
12. Private Boat Charters in Saint James
This customizable private boat charter in Saint James is perfect for those who want full control. For $550 per group up to 6, you can choose to snorkel, shell, wildlife-watch, or simply cruise remote islands like Cayo Costa. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to fish, explore restaurants, or do water taxi runs.
While it has no reviews yet, the flexibility makes it appealing for groups with specific interests or those celebrating a special event. It’s a good option for confident boaters who want a private, tailored day on the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking total control over their itinerary, especially those interested in activities like snorkeling and fishing.
How to Choose Your Perfect Florida Boat Tour
When deciding, consider your budget, how long you want to be on the water, and what kind of experience excites you—wildlife watching, luxurious cruising, or island-hopping. If celebrating a special occasion, private yacht options or luxury charters can add that extra touch. For active travelers, tours with hiking or swimming are ideal, while scenic sunset cruises suit romantics.
Book early, especially in peak season (winter and spring), and check for any additional costs like captain’s fees or gratuities. Think about the weather—Florida’s summer storms can disrupt plans, so plan for early mornings or fall trips for more reliable weather.
In summary, whether you’re after a private, tailored experience with a yacht, a wildlife-filled day exploring the Everglades, or a sunset cruise with a view of Miami’s skyline, Florida offers a diverse range of boat adventures. For a special occasion, the luxury options like the Miami yacht or the sunset cruise elevate the experience. For family fun or wildlife lovers, Clearwater and Cayo Costa tours deliver memorable encounters with nature. Be sure to compare prices, group sizes, and itineraries to find the best fit—and don’t forget to book in advance to reserve your spot on these water-bound adventures.