19 Ft boat tour around the Miami Bay, 2 or 4 hours, 6 people

Miami is famous for its lively beaches, glamorous skyline, and vibrant nightlife, but there’s a quieter, more personal way to see this city—by renting a small, private boat. This 19-foot vessel trip around Miami Bay offers a chance to escape the crowded tour boats and enjoy the water on your own terms. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a peaceful afternoon on the water, this experience has a lot to offer.

What really appeals to us is the intimacy of a private tour—no noisy crowds or strangers sharing your space, just your chosen group. Plus, the inclusion of fuel and the option to bring your own music make it feel like a true personalized adventure. On the flip side, the boat isn’t luxurious, and the captain fee can add up if you’re planning a longer trip, so it’s worth planning ahead.

This tour makes an excellent choice for couples, small families, or friends who want a flexible, relaxed day on the water without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic views, privacy, and a touch of spontaneity.

Key Points

• Private, customizable boat experience on Miami Bay
• Cost-effective compared to larger group tours
• Includes fuel, Bluetooth stereo, and cooler options
• Suitable for groups up to 10, but generally booked for smaller parties
• Easy to book with confirmation and flexible cancellation
• Perfect for those wanting scenic views and a laid-back vibe

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The adventure begins at the boat rental location, 2610 NW 18th Terrace, Miami. You’ll meet at the marina, where your 19-foot vessel awaits. This boat is described as spacious enough for a family or small group, and it can comfortably seat up to 10 people if needed, though most bookings are for smaller parties of six or fewer. The vessel is well-equipped with Bluetooth stereo and a cooler, which you can request to fill with ice for drinks.

The rental itself is designed to give you freedom. With or without a captain (additional fee applies), you’re free to navigate the waters as you wish, offering a true sense of discovery. Gas is included in the price, removing one potential hassle—no need to worry about refueling during your trip.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Once on the water, your options depend on your mood. The calm waters of Miami Bay are perfect for a leisurely cruise, sunbathing on deck, or taking in the city’s skyline from a new perspective. The views of Miami’s impressive skyline, with its modern skyscrapers and distant cruise ships, are often mentioned as a highlight, making this a memorable way to see the city.

Some reviewers mentioned the flexibility of this tour. You can choose to stay close to Miami, enjoying the iconic sights such as the Miami Beach area or venture further towards Key Biscayne, depending on how long you’ve rented. The tour durations are either two or four hours, giving enough time for a relaxed ride or a more extended exploration.

The Joys of Privacy and Personalization

Unlike larger, commercial boat tours, this rental prioritizes privacy. You won’t be sharing your space with strangers, which means you can bring your own music via Bluetooth stereo or pack a picnic in the cooler. Several reviews praise this aspect—one noted how they loved using their own speaker to create a custom soundtrack, and another appreciated the space and cleanliness of the boat.

On top of that, the boat’s size and ease of handling make it accessible even for those with limited boating experience. For those who prefer to be passive, hiring a captain is an option, though it does come with an hourly fee—$35 from April 1 to August 15, then $30 for the rest of the year. It’s worth noting that some periods, like February 14, July 4, or New Year’s Eve, may see different rates or availability restrictions.

What Travelers Love

From the reviews, a recurring theme is how the experience provides great value. One reviewer mentioned that this private boat ride is “super affordable compared to same activity offered by different company,” emphasizing the cost-to-value ratio. Many also highlight the stunning views, with comments like “the view is fantastic,” and “we’ll be back,” signaling strong repeat appeal.

The flexibility and straightforward booking process stand out. The experience confirms immediately upon booking, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand—perfect for travelers who might need to adapt their plans.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

While the experience has many positives, it’s not without a few caveats. The boat itself is described as “nothing special,” which might disappoint those expecting more luxury. It’s a practical vessel meant for function rather than luxury, which aligns perfectly with the price but could be a disappointment for those seeking a high-end yacht experience.

The captain fee, while optional, can add up if you opt for a longer trip or for periods when rates are higher. Since the boat can accommodate up to ten people, larger groups might find it economical to split costs, but the base price is $149 for the entire vessel, making it good value for small parties.

Weather also plays a role; this tour is weather-dependent, and rain or strong winds could impact your plans. The booking provider’s weather policy means you might need to reschedule or cancel if conditions are unsuitable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private boat rental is perfect for travelers seeking a more relaxed, private alternative to crowded tours. It suits small groups, families, or couples looking for a flexible way to explore Miami’s waterways without feeling rushed. It’s also great for those who want to control their itinerary, listen to their music, and enjoy the scenery at their own pace.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price of $149, this private boat experience offers excellent value—especially considering fuel, the stereo, and the ability to customize your trip. The size and ease of handling make it accessible, and the privacy makes it stand out from larger commercial cruises.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value flexibility, scenic views, and a laid-back vibe. If you’re hoping for a more luxurious or guided experience, you might find this boat a bit basic, but for those who want a personal, affordable day on Miami Bay, it hits the mark.

FAQs

Can I bring my own music? Yes, the boat has a Bluetooth stereo, so you can connect your device and play your favorite tunes.

Is there a captain included? No, the rental is for the boat itself. You can hire a captain for additional hourly fees—$35 from April 1 to August 15, or $30 the rest of the year.

What is the meeting point? You meet at 2610 NW 18th Terrace, Miami, FL 33125. Parking is available outside the marina for free.

How long can I rent the boat? Rentals are available for approximately 2 or 4 hours, giving you flexibility based on your schedule.

What size groups can this accommodate? The boat itself can hold up to 10 people, but most bookings are for smaller groups of 6 or fewer.

What should I consider about weather? The experience is weather-dependent; rain or high winds might cause cancellations or rescheduling. Check the weather policy when booking.

Is this experience suitable for everyone? Most travelers can participate, but you should be comfortable getting on and off the boat, especially during low or high tide conditions.

To sum it up, this private Miami Bay boat rental offers a perfect blend of affordability, flexibility, and intimacy. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to see Miami from the water while avoiding the crowds. Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or just curious to view the city from a new angle, this experience delivers. Just plan ahead, consider hiring a captain if needed, and pack your favorites to enjoy your personalized cruise in Miami.