Miami’s waterways are a defining feature of the city, offering some of the most striking views and unique experiences you can find in Florida. Unlike many places where you’re stuck on land, Miami takes full advantage of its bays, islands, and skyline, making boat tours an essential part of any visit. Whether you want to see the homes of the rich and famous, enjoy a romantic sunset, or explore the Everglades, Miami’s boat options cover a broad spectrum of interests and budgets. With boat sizes and themes ranging from pirate ships to private yachts, there’s truly something for every water lover.
But with so many choices, how do you pick the right one? This guide ranks the 16 best cruises and boat tours in Miami, highlighting what makes each stand out. From public sightseeing cruises to luxury private charters, we’ve broken down each experience so you can find the perfect fit.
Quick Overview
All these tours showcase Miami from its most beautiful vantage point, but they differ in focus and style. You’ll find celebrity mansion cruises like the [Miami: Biscayne Bay Millionaire’s Homes Sightseeing Cruise](), pirate-themed adventures such as the [Miami Pirate Boat Tour](), and private yacht charters like the [2-hour Private Yacht Cruise with Champagne](). There are eco-adventure options in the Everglades, sunset cruises, city and skyline excursions, and customizable private tours—all offering different experiences suited for families, couples, or groups. Each tour has its own appeal, whether for budget-friendly sightseeing or luxurious privacy.
1. Miami: Biscayne Bay Millionaire’s Homes Sightseeing Cruise
Rated 4.5/5 with nearly 5,000 reviews, this 1.5-hour cruise offers a close look at Miami’s most luxurious waterfront homes, including celebrity mansions. It starts at Bayride Tours and includes live onboard commentary in multiple languages, covering iconic sights like Star Island and Hibiscus Island. Passengers often marvel at the Miami skyline and the size of cruise ships like the Icon of the Seas cruising nearby. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and lively commentary, with comments like “the guide was fun and the boat was perfect.” The price is just $25 per person, making it an affordable and enjoyable way to see Miami’s wealthiest neighborhoods from the water. This tour is perfect if you’re interested in Miami’s architectural marvels and celebrity homes, with a relaxed pace and clear commentary.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, well-rated option for those wanting a quick, informative look at Miami’s waterfront mansions with lively guides.
2. Miami Pirate Boat Tour: Skyline & Millionaire’s Homes
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from nearly 1,000 reviews, this 1 hour 20-minute pirate-themed cruise combines entertainment with sightseeing. Starting at Bayside Marketplace, the tour cruises past Star Island, Venetian Islands, and Miami Beach, all while embracing a lively pirate adventure with onboard music and storytelling. The boat’s theme makes the ride especially fun for families or those young at heart, with pirate crew antics and lively atmosphere. The price is just $17.99 per person, offering exceptional value for an hour and a half of fun. Passengers love the upbeat vibe and the chance to see Miami’s famous homes and skyline in a playful setting. It’s an energetic alternative to more traditional sightseeing tours, with a focus on fun and vibrant atmosphere.
Bottom Line: An affordable, kid-friendly cruise that adds a dash of adventure and humor to Miami’s waterside sights.
3. Private Boat Ride in Miami with Experienced Captain and Champagne
Rated 5.0/5 from 885 reviews, this private experience costs $165 for groups up to 8. You’ll enjoy a personalized cruise around Biscayne Bay, with breathtaking views of Millionaire’s Row and Star Island. It’s highly flexible—you can request a sunset cruise, and if you choose the optional swim, you can hop out at a Miami sandbar. Guests love the professional crew and the chance to customize the itinerary to suit their preferences. The boat is a new, comfortable vessel equipped with restrooms, and the price includes bubbly on board. Perfect for celebrating special occasions or just escaping the crowds, this tour offers privacy and exclusivity in an intimate setting.
Bottom Line: A flexible, luxurious private cruise ideal for small groups seeking a tailored experience with champagne and scenic views.
4. Half-day Everglades National Park Tour and 1-Hour Air Boat Ride
Rated 5.0/5 with 667 reviews, this 5.5-hour eco-adventure is led by a master naturalist and combines airboat rides with nature walks. This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want to see alligators, birds, and native plants in their natural habitat, with the added bonus of a stop at a Native American village. Participants praise the knowledgeable guides and the immense wildlife viewing opportunities. The price is $179 per person, offering a comprehensive experience that covers both the ecosystem and cultural history. It’s an excellent choice for travelers interested in nature and wildlife and fits well into a half-day timeframe.
Bottom Line: A well-rated, immersive eco-tour that combines wildlife viewing with cultural insights and naturalist-led walks.
5. Miami: 2 Hour Private Yacht Cruise with Champagne
Rated 5.0/5 from 567 reviews, this luxurious private yacht costs about $98 per person and offers seclusion and stunning views. Departing from Bayside Marketplace, the cruise includes champagne, Bluetooth music, and panoramic views of Miami’s skyline and celebrity homes on Star Island. Guests mention enjoying a smooth, personalized experience where they can relax and take photos without crowds. It’s perfect for celebrating birthdays or special moments. The boat is equipped with restrooms and ample space for lounging or partying. It’s an excellent value for those who want privacy and luxury on the water without the expense of full-day charters.
Bottom Line: A top-notch, intimate private yacht experience that combines luxury, privacy, and great scenery.
6. Miami Party Boat Cruise Music & Skyline Views
Rated 5.0/5 with over 500 reviews, this 1 hour 20-minute party cruise is all about dancing and fun. Setting sail from Bayside Marketplace, a DJ spins the latest hits as you groove under the stars, with complimentary beer and the option to buy more drinks. The boat’s pirate theme adds a quirky vibe, perfect for a festive night out. Reviewers mention “super fun” and “great music,” making it ideal for groups of friends or couples looking to unwind. The ticket costs $30, which is an affordable way to add a lively nightcap to your Miami trip.
Bottom Line: A lively, music-filled cruise ideal for those wanting a fun, informal evening with dancing and waterfront views.
7. Miami: The Original Millionaire’s Row Cruise
Rated 4.4/5 from over 1,100 reviews, this 90-minute cruise offers narration and scenic views of Miami’s most famous neighborhoods. It features homes of celebrities like Shaquille O’Neal and Gloria Estefan along with the Miami skyline and the port. The boat’s informative commentary and relaxed pace make it appealing for those interested in Miami’s socio-economic history and architecture. Many note the helpful captain JB and the photo opportunities. Costing $35 per person, it’s a solid mid-range choice for a balanced mix of information and scenery.
Bottom Line: An engaging, moderately priced cruise for fans of architecture and celebrity spotting.
8. Miami Sunset and City Lights Cocktail Cruise
Rated 4.5/5 from 811 reviews, this 2-hour evening cruise offers spectacular sunset views. Departing from waterfront Arena, it features unlimited drinks and breathtaking sights of Miami’s skyline at night, including the homes of the wealthy on Star, Palm, and Hibiscus Islands. Reviewers mention it’s a relaxing way to unwind, with “beautiful sights” and a calm atmosphere. It’s not a party cruise but perfect for romantic evenings or chilled out socializing. The ticket price is $69, which includes unlimited drinks—a good deal for a sunset experience in Miami.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, scenic cruise ideal for couples or those seeking a romantic, sunset viewing.
9. Miami: City and Boat Tour Combo
Rated 4.5/5 from 763 reviews, this full-day tour combines city exploration with a biscayne bay boat tour. It covers Miami’s art districts, Little Havana, Wynwood, and South Beach, with hotel pickup and onboard Wi-Fi. Your boat pass is included, making it a rundown of Miami in one day. Reviewers appreciate the balance of land and water, with some highlighting Little Havana’s food and Cultura as a personal favorite. Costing $50 per person, it’s good value for those wanting an immersive experience.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one, full-day tour suited for first-timers wanting to see multiple neighborhoods and waterfront sights.
10. Private Captained Boat Tour in Miami for up to 12 passengers
Rated 5.0/5 from 171 reviews, this up to 4-hour private boat costs $199 per group and suits small groups seeking personalized time on the water. The boat is skippered by a professional captain who can customize your route, including stops at Miami’s famous skyline and Bayside Marketplace. Many reviewers mention ease of booking and the relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The boat can accommodate water dips if you upgrade for longer trips. This is perfect if you want control over your itinerary and privacy.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private option for families or friends wanting a tailored experience with privacy and comfort.
11. Top Miami Skyline Boat Cruise | water tours
Rated 4.5/5 from 588 reviews, this evening cruise offers sunset views of Biscayne Bay and nighttime skyline illuminations. Starting at Bayside Marketplace, it features commentary about luxury homes, cruise ships, and Miami attractions, with an optional champagne upgrade. Travelers love the unobstructed photos and calm pace. At around 1 hour 20 minutes, it’s a relaxing way to see Miami’s glittering lights and famous islands.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, scenic evening cruise perfect for romantic evenings or photo enthusiasts.
12. Miami Boat Tour of Celebrity Homes
Rated 4.5/5 from 506 reviews, this 1.5-hour cruise focuses on Miami’s celebrity mansions and yachts, with views of South Beach, Fisher Island, and the Venetian Causeway. It features stories about famous movie locations and a casual onboard bar. Many appreciated the close-up views of luxury homes and the informative narration. At $34 per person, it offers a great mix of scenery and insider stories.
Bottom Line: An engaging, laid-back cruise for those curious about Miami’s celebrity lifestyle.
13. Miami: Everglades Experience, Bay Cruise & Open-top Bus Tour
Rated 4/5 from 1,842 reviews, this combo ticket offers three adventures in one day: Everglades wildlife and airboat rides, a Bay cruise, and an open-top bus tour. It’s perfect for travelers who want maximum variety. Reviewers mention good value and the diversity of experiences, from birdwatching to city sights. The tour costs $80 per person and covers a lot of ground.
Bottom Line: A full-day package that’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a multi-faceted Miami experience.
14. Miami: Everglades Full-Day Tour with 2 Boat Trips and Lunch
Rated 4.8/5 from 195 reviews, this extensive 9-hour tour features two boat trips, a scenic walk, and lunch. It explores the 10,000 Islands and features wildlife sightings like alligators and dolphins. Reviewers praise the expert guides and the comprehensive itinerary. Costing $285 per person, it’s a serious commitment but offers an experienced, immersive look at the Everglades.
Bottom Line: The best choice if you want a deep dive into Everglades ecology and culture, with plenty of time on the water and in nature.
15. 19 Ft boat tour around the Miami Bay, 2 or 4 hours, 6 people
Rated 5.0/5 from 104 reviews, this private 19-foot boat costs $149 per group and is perfect for up to 6 people. It offers customizable routes on Miami Bay, with options for 2 or 4 hours, and includes gas and Bluetooth stereo. Many users highlight the freedom to navigate and the privacy of their own vessel. It’s a flexible and intimate option for those who want to control their itinerary and enjoy personalized water time.
Bottom Line: An affordable, private, and flexible way to enjoy Miami Bay with friends or family.
16. Miami: Private Yacht Cruise with Champagne
Rated 4.7/5 with 196 reviews, this luxury yacht experience costs $156 per person for 2 hours. It includes a complimentary champagne toast, personalized service, and stunning views of Miami’s skyline and celebrity mansions. Reviewers mention easy check-in and friendly crew. It’s ideal for special occasions or those seeking ultimate privacy on the water, with ample photo opportunities and customizable routes.
Bottom Line: A top-tier, private yacht experience suited for celebrating or indulging in Miami’s luxury from the water.
How to Choose Your Perfect Miami Boat Tour
When deciding which water adventure suits you best, consider your budget, interest in luxury or adventure, and desired level of privacy. A quick public tour like [Miami: Biscayne Bay Millionaire’s Homes Sightseeing Cruise]() provides excellent value, while a private yacht offers exclusivity at a higher cost. For wildlife lovers, the [Everglades Tour]() delivers immersive nature experiences, whereas families or groups who want fun and entertainment might prefer the [Pirate Boat](). Booking early, especially for popular sunset or private options, helps secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Miami’s water-based tours offer a wide range of experiences—from luxurious private yacht cruises to fun pirate adventures and educational eco-tours. For those seeking the most iconic sights, the Millionaire’s Row cruises are a must. Meanwhile, budget travelers will appreciate the affordable sightseeing cruises with lively guides. If you’re celebrating or want privacy, private yacht or boat rentals provide a memorable, personalized experience.
No matter your choice, Miami’s waterways promise stunning views, fascinating stories, and unique moments. Booking ahead is recommended—these tours fill up fast, especially in peak season. Dive into Miami’s vibrant waters and make your trip unforgettable.