Miami Beach’s waterways offer excellent sightseeing value. The best boat tours combine local history with stunning views – my favorite is the half-day mansion cruise past “Millionaire’s Row,” which provides fascinating glimpses into the city’s wealthy enclaves at a reasonable price.
City-and-boat combination tours work well for first-timers, efficiently covering both water and land highlights. For a livelier experience, evening party cruises include drinks and club access, though they can get crowded in peak season. The small-group Stiltsville tour stands out for its intimate look at Miami’s unique water-built heritage.
Skip the overpriced jet ski rentals and stick to guided experiences – you’ll learn more and spend less. Check out our recommended Miami boat tours below.
Key Points
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The “Millionaires Row Cruise and Open-top Bus Tour” offers a 90-minute boat cruise showcasing luxurious mansions and celebrity homes, along with an additional bus tour of Miami’s vibrant neighborhoods.
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The “Guided City Tour and Boat Ride” is a comprehensive 6-8 hour tour that includes a boat ride along Biscayne Bay’s iconic “Millionaires Row” and visits to popular neighborhoods like South Beach and Little Havana.
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The “Ultimate Boat Party, Party Bus, and Nightclub Entry” provides a 3-hour party experience with an open bar, live DJ, and access to a bar lounge and nightclub, offering panoramic views of the Miami skyline.
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The “Guided Small Group Boat Tour + Iconic Stiltsville” is a 2-hour exclusive boat tour limited to 6 participants, focusing on Biscayne Bay and the historic Stiltsville houses, with opportunities to spot wildlife.
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The “Banana Boat Ride and Jet Ski & Boat Ride” offer thrilling water-based experiences, including a 30-minute banana boat ride and a 2-hour package with a 1-hour jet ski rental and a 30-minute boat ride.
Miami Combo: Millionaires Row Cruise and Open-top Bus Tour
Explore the opulence of Miami’s Millionaires Row and discover the city’s vibrant neighborhoods on this engaging half-day combo tour.
For just €42.57 per person, you’ll enjoy a 90-minute boat cruise along Biscayne Bay, offering unparalleled views of luxurious mansions and celebrity homes.
Then, hop aboard an open-top bus to explore South Beach, the Miami Design District, Wynwood Walls, and Little Havana.
With a live guide and digital audio available in English and Spanish, you’ll gain fascinating insights into the city’s history and culture.
The tour departs every 30 minutes, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible and budget-friendly option.
Read our full review: Miami Combo: Millionaires Row Cruise and Open-top Bus Tour Review
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Miami: Guided City Tour and Boat Ride
One can embark on a captivating 6-8 hour tour that showcases Miami’s vibrant neighborhoods and pristine waterways.
The Miami: Guided City Tour and Boat Ride offers an immersive experience, with a live guide available in Spanish and English. Participants will explore South Beach, Coconut Grove, and Little Havana, as well as the Wynwood Street Art District.
The highlight is a boat ride on Biscayne Bay, featuring the iconic Millionaires Row. The tour includes pickup, a boat tour ticket, bottled water, and Cuban coffee.
Customers rate the guide highly, though the transportation could be improved. At $50 per person, this tour provides good value for budget-conscious travelers.
Read our full review: Miami: Guided City Tour and Boat Ride Review
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Miami: Ultimate Boat Party, Party Bus and Nightclub Entry
For those seeking an unforgettable party experience in Miami, the Miami: Ultimate Boat Party, Party Bus, and Nightclub Entry offers an exciting 3-hour adventure.
Priced at just $49.84 per person, this package includes a boat party with an unlimited open bar, live DJ music, and panoramic views of the Miami skyline.
Participants can also enjoy a 1-hour bar lounge access and nightclub entry, as well as optional party bus transportation.
While the overall customer feedback is mixed, with some complaints about late arrivals and rude staff, the value for money rating suggests this activity could be a budget-friendly way to experience Miami’s vibrant nightlife.
Read our full review: Miami: Ultimate Boat Party, Party Bus and Nightclub Entry Review
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Miami: Guided Small Group Boat Tour + Iconic Stiltsville
Visitors seeking a more intimate and informative experience on the water can embark on the Miami: Guided Small Group Boat Tour + Iconic Stiltsville.
This 2-hour tour is limited to just 6 participants, providing an exclusive look at Biscayne Bay and the historic Stiltsville houses. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to spot dolphins, manatees, and other marine life, while also enjoying panoramic views of Miami’s skyline.
An expert local guide will share insights into the area’s history, from the early pioneers to the transformation of Fisher Island.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers convenience and flexibility.
Read our full review: Miami: Guided Small Group Boat Tour + Iconic Stiltsville Review
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Miami: Banana Boat Ride
Although the Banana Boat Ride in Miami may not be as serene as the guided boat tour, it offers an exhilarating water adventure perfect for thrill-seekers.
The 30-minute ride costs from $29 per person and can accommodate up to 6 riders aged 4 and above. While safety is paramount, with a required briefing and weight limit, the experience promises rushing speeds across warm tropical waters.
With options for photos and waterproof phone cases, groups can capture unforgettable memories.
Despite a slightly lower value for money rating, the Banana Boat Ride’s high guide rating and overall 4.5/5 score indicate it’s a must-try for visitors seeking an adrenaline-fueled activity in Miami.
Read our full review: Miami: Banana Boat Ride Review
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Miami: Jet Ski & Boat Ride on the Bay
Nestled along the picturesque Biscayne Bay, the Jet Ski & Boat Ride offers thrill-seekers an exhilarating water adventure.
Priced from $22 per person, this 2-hour experience includes a 1-hour jet ski rental, a 30-minute pontoon boat ride, and all necessary gear and instructions.
Glide over the bay, soak in the city skyline views, and enjoy the adrenaline-pumping opportunity to race and jump waves on the jet ski, all under the supervision of an experienced instructor.
With flexible cancellation policies and a convenient reserve-now-pay-later option, this jet ski and boat tour is a must-try for visitors looking to make a splash in Miami.
Read our full review: Miami: Jet Ski & Boat Ride on the Bay Review
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Recap
Miami offers a variety of exciting cruise and boat tour options to suit different budgets and interests. From sightseeing tours of Millionaire’s Row to thrilling water sports, there’s something for all. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise or a lively party on the water, Miami has the perfect boat tour to make your visit unforgettable.