Miami: Guided Small Group Boat Tour + Iconic Stiltsville

Miami’s coastal charm takes center stage on this guided small group boat tour that grants exclusive access to the historic Stiltsville community. Priced at $180 per person, this two-hour adventure showcases the city’s vibrant beauty, from the stunning skyline to the iconic stilt houses dating back to the 1930s. As you navigate Biscayne National Park, keep an eye out for diverse marine life like dolphins and manatees, while your knowledgeable guide shares insights into Miami’s rich history. With an intimate, immersive experience, this tour promises to leave you captivated by the unique wonders that make this coastal paradise so alluring.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Miami Beach.

Key Points

• Guided small group boat tour of Miami’s Biscayne Bay, featuring exclusive access to the historic Stiltsville community of wooden stilt houses.
• Duration of the tour is 2 hours, with a maximum group size of 6 participants.
• Opportunity to encounter diverse marine life, including dolphins and manatees, and enjoy panoramic views of the iconic Miami skyline.
• Tour includes captain/guide services, complimentary bottled water, dock fees, fuel, and gratuities.
• Suitable for adults and children aged 2 and above, with restrictions for wheelchair users and individuals over 280 lbs (127 kg).

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Miami Boat Tour offers a guided small group experience for $180.00 per person, with a duration of 2 hours and a limited capacity of 6 participants.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

The tour provides exclusive access to the historic Stiltsville in Biscayne National Park, along with the opportunity to encounter marine life and enjoy panoramic views of the Miami skyline.

With a focus on the city’s rich history and development, the tour is designed to offer a unique and memorable experience for visitors.

Tour Highlights

Exclusive access to the historic Stiltsville in Biscayne National Park showcases a unique highlight of the Miami Boat Tour. This exclusive community of wooden stilt houses, built in the 1930s, offers a glimpse into Miami’s fascinating past.

Along the way, guests may encounter a variety of marine life, including dolphins, manatees, rays, and an array of sea birds. The tour also provides panoramic views of the iconic Miami skyline from the southern Biscayne Bay.

Plus, you will learn about Miami’s transformation from swamplands to a world-class city through the stories of influential figures like Flagler, Collins, and Fisher.

Itinerary Details

The tour departs from the Miami Beach Marina, where guests will learn about Miami’s remarkable transformation from swamplands to a world-class city.

As the boat cruises past multi-million-dollar waterfront mansions and the Port of Miami, the guide shares stories of visionaries like Henry Flagler, Carl Fisher, and John Collins who shaped Miami’s development.

Guests will then explore Biscayne National Park, the largest underwater park in the US, and view the historic Cape Florida lighthouse and nearby waterfront neighborhoods.

The highlight of the tour is the exclusive access to the iconic Stiltsville, a unique community of homes built on stilts in Biscayne Bay within the national park.

Inclusions and Exclusions

According to the tour details, the package includes the services of a captain/guide, complimentary bottled water, dock fees, fuel, and gratuities.

However, the cost of food, hotel pickup and drop-off, and parking aren’t covered.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 years old, wheelchair users, or individuals over 280 lbs (127 kg).

Guests must sign a liability waiver at boarding, and the tour operates rain or shine, with cancellation due to weather at the captain’s discretion.

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Important Information

Guests must arrive 15 minutes before departure and present their voucher to the captain at the meeting point, Dock E of the Miami Beach Marina behind Montys Restaurant.

Participants should wear comfortable clothing and sports shoes, and bring sunscreen. High-heeled shoes, weapons, oversized luggage, smoking, intoxication, fishing, and glass objects aren’t allowed.

Guests must sign a liability waiver at boarding. The tour operates rain or shine, and the captain reserves the right to cancel due to inclement weather.

The boat tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 years, wheelchair users, or individuals over 280 lbs (127 kg).

Exclusive Access to Stiltsville

One of the highlights of the Miami boat tour is the exclusive access it provides to the historic Stiltsville community in Biscayne National Park. Stiltsville is a unique collection of wooden structures built on stilts in the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay. This former fishing and recreational community dates back to the 1930s and offers a glimpse into Miami’s past. During the tour, guests can explore these iconic structures and learn about their fascinating history and significance to the region.

Stiltsville History
Established in 1930s	Fishing/recreational community
7 remaining structures	Accessible only by boat

Panoramic Views of Miami

From the southern reaches of Biscayne Bay, the Miami boat tour affords guests sweeping panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline.

Towering skyscrapers, many sporting sleek modern designs, punctuate the horizon. The gleaming glass facades reflect the sun’s rays, creating a dazzling display.

Farther inland, the tour offers glimpses of Miami’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. Whether it’s the Art Deco splendor of South Beach or the lush palms of Coconut Grove, the tour provides a rundown of Miami’s vibrant urban landscape.

These breathtaking vistas are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who experience this captivating boat excursion.

Marine Life Encounters

Frequently, guests on the Miami boat tour are delighted to spot a variety of marine life amid the serene Biscayne Bay waters.

Dolphins gracefully leap from the waves, while manatees, gentle sea cows, slowly surface to breathe. Rays glide just beneath the surface, their wingtips occasionally breaking through.

Diverse seabirds, from pelicans to egrets, soar overhead, searching for their next meal. The tour provides a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Spotting the region’s diverse marine life adds an extra layer of wonder and excitement to the already captivating sights of Miami’s skyline and historic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the tour. However, glass containers and alcohol are not permitted. The tour operator provides complimentary bottled water for all participants.

Is There Any Wheelchair Accessibility on the Boat?

According to the tour details, the boat tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. The tour operator notes that individuals with mobility constraints may not be able to participate in the boat tour.

How Often Do You See Dolphins and Manatees on the Tour?

According to the tour details, guests often encounter dolphins and manatees during the 2-hour cruise. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour’s proximity to Biscayne National Park increases the chances of spotting these marine mammals.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

Yes, the tour operator offers a 10% discount for seniors aged 65 and above, and a 15% discount for students with a valid student ID. These discounts can be applied at the time of booking.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Guests are welcome to take photos and videos during the tour. The captain encourages capturing the stunning views and wildlife encounters. However, using flash photography and filming underwater are prohibited to avoid disturbing the marine life.

Recap

Set out on a captivating two-hour boat tour to explore Miami’s vibrant coastal landscape. Witness the iconic Stiltsville houses, marvel at the stunning skyline, and encounter diverse marine life. This immersive experience offers an exclusive glimpse into the city’s rich history and natural beauty, creating a truly unforgettable adventure in this coastal paradise.

You can check if your dates are available here: