Fort Lauderdale: Small Group Tour W/Intercoastal Boat Cruise

Discover the hidden treasures of Fort Lauderdale through a unique small group tour that combines a scenic cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway with visits to the city’s natural and historic gems. This 4-hour experience offers an intimate and personalized exploration, catering to a maximum of 7 participants. From marveling at the wildlife in the lush Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to uncovering the rich history of the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, this tour promises to unveil the captivating essence of this vibrant coastal destination. However, the true highlight may just lie in the serene and awe-inspiring journey along the Intracoastal Waterway, where the beauty of Fort Lauderdale unfolds in a way that words can scarcely capture.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Fort Lauderdale.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 4-hour tour of Fort Lauderdale, including a sightseeing cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway and visits to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and Bonnet House Museum.
• Small group size of up to 7 participants for a personalized experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off, and skip-the-line entry.
• Explore the urban oasis of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and the historic Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, known for their unique architecture and lush botanical gardens.
• Enjoy a 1.5-hour guided cruise on the Carrie B, showcasing the luxury mansions and yachts along the Intracoastal Waterway.
• Conclude the tour with a visit to the vibrant Los Olas area, renowned for its restaurants, art galleries, and cultural offerings.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Fort Lauderdale, blending a sightseeing cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway with visits to historical and natural landmarks.

Over 4 hours, a small group of up to 7 you will be guided through the city’s highlights, including the lush Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens.

The tour also includes a 1.5-hour cruise on the Carrie B, offering unique perspectives of the city’s luxury mansions and yachts.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, skip-the-line entry, and an English-speaking guide, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of Fort Lauderdale’s diverse attractions.

Tour Highlights

Explorers frequently enjoy the urban oasis of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, observing local wildlife like gopher tortoises.

Next, they’ll explore the historic Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, built in 1920, learning about its unique architecture and rich history.

The tour highlights the renowned Carrie B Cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, where participants can capture stunning photographs of luxurious mansions and yachts.

Finally, guests experience the vibrant Los Olas area, known for its array of restaurants, art galleries, and museums.

Throughout the tour, participants benefit from skip-the-line entry, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.

Itinerary Details

Pickup from the downtown Fort Lauderdale hotel by a professional guide in a comfortable Mercedes Metris van kicks off the tour.

Guests get to explore Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, an urban oasis, observing local wildlife like gopher tortoises.

Next, they enjoy a walking tour of the historic Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, appreciating its unique architecture and rich past.

The highlight is the guided sightseeing cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering opportunities to photograph notable landmarks and luxury mansions and yachts.

The tour culminates with a visit to Los Olas, known for its vibrant restaurants, art galleries, and museums.

Pickup and Transportation

A professional guide in a comfortable Mercedes Metris van picks up participants from their downtown Fort Lauderdale hotels to kick off the small group tour.

The convenient hotel pickup eliminates the hassle of finding the starting point, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the experience from the moment they’re welcomed aboard.

The air-conditioned van ensures a comfortable journey as the guide navigates through the vibrant streets of Fort Lauderdale, setting the stage for an immersive exploration of the city’s highlights.

With a maximum of 7 participants, the small group size fosters a more personalized and intimate experience throughout the tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

The van pulls into Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, an urban oasis within Fort Lauderdale. The guide points out the gopher tortoises that are native to this coastal habitat.

Visitors stroll along the park’s nature trails, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna. The guide shares fascinating details about the park’s history, which was once the private estate of a prominent businessman.

Guests are encouraged to observe the local wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and other small creatures. Throughout the visit, the guide provides insights into the park’s role as a sanctuary in the heart of the bustling city.

This tranquil interlude offers a welcomed respite before the group continues their exploration of Fort Lauderdale’s sights.

Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

Departing Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, the group proceeds to the historic Bonnet House Museum and Gardens. Built in 1920, this former winter retreat showcases the region’s architecture and history. Guests enjoy a walking tour, learning about the house’s distinctive design and the lives of its original owners, the Bartletts. The property’s lush gardens, featuring over 1,000 species of plants, captivate visitors.

Features	Description
Architecture	Distinctive style blending Caribbean, Victorian, and early 20th-century elements
History	Former home of artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife Evelyn
Gardens	Expansive botanical gardens with over 1,000 plant species
Activities	Guided tours, cultural events, and educational programs

Intracoastal Waterway Cruise

After exploring the historic Bonnet House, the tour transitions to the highlight of the experience – the Intracoastal Waterway cruise.

Aboard the Carrie B Cruise, participants embark on a 1.5-hour guided journey along the iconic waterway. As the boat glides past luxurious mansions and towering yachts, the guide provides engaging commentary, sharing insights into the area’s rich history and opulent lifestyles.

Guests have ample opportunities to capture remarkable photographs of the stunning scenery and notable landmarks. The Intracoastal Waterway cruise offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the grandeur and splendor of Fort Lauderdale’s elite coastal community.

Customer Feedback

Based on the customer feedback provided, visitors to the Fort Lauderdale Small Group Tour have been highly satisfied with their experiences.

With a perfect 5/5 rating across 2 reviews, the tour’s organization, enjoyable boat cruise, and the benefits of small group sizes have been consistently praised.

Customers have highlighted the tour’s efficient coordination, allowing them to skip the lines and maximize their time exploring the city’s highlights.

The small group size has also been noted as a significant advantage, providing a more personalized and intimate experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a small group. Many tour operators offer private tours, which allow you to customize the itinerary and have a more personalized experience with just your group.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator offers a 10% discount for seniors aged 65 and above, as well as a 15% discount for students with valid ID. Discounts are applied at the time of booking and cannot be combined with other offers.

Is There an Option to Extend the Boat Cruise Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the boat cruise duration. However, customers can upgrade to a longer private boat tour for an additional fee if they’d like more time on the Intracoastal Waterway.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour provider doesn’t provide any storage or refrigeration, so guests should plan accordingly. Consuming alcoholic beverages during the tour isn’t permitted.

How Flexible Is the Tour Itinerary if I Have Special Requests?

The tour operator is generally flexible in accommodating special requests, though changes to the core itinerary may incur additional fees. Customers are encouraged to discuss any special needs or preferences with the tour operator prior to booking.

Recap

This small group tour of Fort Lauderdale provides a comprehensive and immersive experience. Travelers can explore the area’s natural beauty, historic landmarks, and scenic waterways, all while enjoying personalized attention from the guide. The combination of a state park visit, museum tour, and boat cruise offers a well-rounded look at the diverse attractions of Fort Lauderdale. With convenient pickup and skip-the-line access, it’s a seamless way to discover the city’s highlights.

You can check if your dates are available here: