The 2 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Vero Beach
Vero Beach isn’t just about sandy beaches and sunshine; it’s a fantastic place to see the Indian River Lagoon from the water. Whether you want a laid-back cruise with drinks in hand or a more active day of fishing and wildlife spotting, the options are plentiful. The Tiki Boat Tour offers a fun, social way to relax on a shaded cabana boat, while the Pontoon Boat Rental lets you take the wheel for a self-guided adventure. Both promise memorable experiences, but they cater to different tastes and plans.
In this guide, we’ll look at what makes each tour stand out: from the social vibe of the tiki boat cruises to the freedom of exploring on your own with a pontoon. Expect honest insights into what each experience includes, who it’s best for, and why they’re worth considering for your Vero Beach trip.
Quick Overview
This list features two very different ways to enjoy Vero Beach’s waters. The Tiki Boat Tour is a guided, 90-minute experience with a focus on socializing, scenic views, and dolphin sightings. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, fun outing with a group. The Pontoon Boat Rental, on the other hand, offers a more flexible, four-hour window to explore the lagoon at your own pace—great for families or anyone wanting a DIY adventure. Both options come at different price points, with the tiki tour costing $344 per group and the pontoon rental at $50 for four hours.
Now, let’s look at each tour in detail so you can decide which suits your style, budget, and schedule.
1. Tiki Boat Tour in Vero Beach
This Tiki Boat Tour in Vero Beach stands out for its relaxed, social atmosphere and scenic views of the Indian River Lagoon. The tour departs from a location near Riverside Café, making it easy to combine with a meal or walk afterward. The boat itself is designed for comfort, with shaded seating, a bar area, and plenty of space for up to 6 people—perfect for a small group or a special celebration.
The 1 hour 30-minute trip allows you to sit back and soak in the scenery, with a chance to see dolphins and other wildlife. The captain keeps things light and entertaining, sharing local knowledge along the way, which adds an educational touch to the fun. Reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the staff are, with a couple mentioning dolphin sightings as a highlight. Price-wise, at $344 per group, it’s a bit of an investment but offers a unique way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or just a day out with friends. The shared vibe and scenic cruising make this a favorite for those wanting a memorable, social experience.
Bottom Line: The Tiki Boat Tour offers a carefree, scenic cruise with a friendly crew—ideal if you want to relax on the water and enjoy dolphin sightings in a small-group setting.
2. 23ft Pontoon Boat Rental
On the lookout for the freedom to explore Vero Beach’s waterways at your own pace? The 23ft Pontoon Boat Rental is the way to go. For $50, you get about 4 hours of time, which is plenty for fishing, wildlife watching, or simply floating along the lagoon while soaking up the sun. This rental is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to customize their day.
The boats are spacious, stable, and easy to operate—no boating experience required. The rental includes all essentials, and you can decide whether to anchor up for a swim, look for dolphins and manatees, or anchor near a peaceful shoreline for a picnic. The two reviews available are glowing, emphasizing the ease of use and the memorable nature of their outings. While you won’t have a guide or crew on board, the flexibility to go where you want and do what you want makes this a top choice for independence and adventure.
Bottom Line: The pontoon rental is perfect for hands-on explorers who want four hours on the water without the extra cost of guided tours, with the added flexibility to craft their own experience.
3. How to Choose
When deciding between these two options, consider your budget, how much time you have, and what type of experience you’re after. The Tiki Boat Tour is best if you want a guided, social outing with scenic views and dolphin sightings—ideal for celebrating or relaxing without worrying about the details. It’s suited for small groups willing to spend a bit more for convenience and camaraderie.
The Pontoon Boat Rental appeals if you prefer a flexible, self-guided adventure tailored entirely by you. It’s more budget-friendly and perfect for families or groups comfortable with a little boating experience. Be sure to check weather conditions and safety rules before heading out.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability. Both tours tend to operate year-round, but the best time to go is during Florida’s cooler months from late fall to early spring, when wildlife is active and the weather is more predictable.
Final Thoughts
Vero Beach offers two excellent ways to enjoy its beautiful waters—whether you want a guided, social cruise or the independence of a self-driven boat. The Tiki Boat Tour provides a laid-back, scenic experience with dolphin watching and friendly staff, making it perfect for celebrating special occasions. The Pontoon Boat Rental offers unmatched flexibility and freedom, ideal for those who want to explore at their own pace or enjoy a day of fishing and wildlife spotting with family or friends.
For a relaxed, social outing with a dash of education, the tiki cruise is a top choice. If your priority is independence and creating a personalized adventure, the pontoon rental is hard to beat. Either way, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable Vero Beach experiences. Now, all that’s left is to choose your water adventure and enjoy the best of what Florida’s Treasure Coast has to offer.