Florida Key Private Islands Exclusive Day Trip from Miami w/activ

If you’re craving a day on the water away from the busy beaches and tourist crowds, this Florida Key Private Islands Exclusive Day Trip offers a more intimate, customizable adventure right from Miami. Whether celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply wanting a different way to see the city’s stunning coastline, this private boat tour promises a blend of luxury, nature, and unique views.

What really excites us about this experience is the freedom to bring your own music, snacks, and decorations—making it feel like your personal floating party. Alongside the scenic cruise, you’ll enjoy opportunities to spot dolphins, snorkel, and relax on pristine sandbars or private islands. That said, one potential drawback is the limited group size—up to 12 —which is great for intimacy but might feel crowded if you’re looking for a larger group outing.

This tour suits travelers seeking a tailored, scenic water adventure with a touch of elegance and plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation. It’s perfect for those celebrating special moments or anyone wanting a private escape on Miami’s waters.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Small group setting up to 12 people allows for a tailored and intimate trip.
All-Inclusive Comforts: Includes water, ice, snorkeling gear, and a floating mat for a full day of fun.
Spectacular Views: Get unobstructed sights of Miami’s skyline, celebrity homes, and marine life.
Safety & Quality: Certified USCG captains and well-maintained boats ensure peace of mind on the water.
Flexibility: Bring your own food, drinks, music, and decorations to make it your own celebration.
Pricing & Value: At $350 per person, it’s a premium experience, but the level of customization and exclusivity feel justified.

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Matheson Hammock Park & Marina, a scenic and accessible spot nestled in Coral Gables. The meeting point is convenient for many travelers, especially those staying downtown or in Miami Beach, and is close to public transportation options.

With a duration of around 5 hours, this tour offers enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The boat’s capacity is capped at 12 guests, which means you’ll enjoy personalized attention from the crew, led by certified and licensed USCG captains.

The Boat and Comforts

The yacht itself is more than just a vessel—it’s a floating oasis. Outfitted with a Bluetooth sound system, allowing you to set your playlist, LED lighting for a festive vibe, and a refrigerator and cooler for your drinks, it aims to balance comfort and entertainment. A restroom onboard adds convenience for longer trips, and the full safety regulations and insurance provide peace of mind for everyone onboard.

Guests have praised the well-maintained, beautiful yacht for its modern amenities, making it a comfortable base for a day on the water.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Biscayne Bay and the Shoreline Views

One of the best parts of this tour is the chance to witness Miami from a fresh perspective. As the boat cruises along Biscayne Bay, you’ll see iconic sights like South Beach, Downtown Miami, and Brickell—perfect for snapping photos of the Miami skyline. The views are especially stunning at sunset or during the golden hours of the day.

Celebrity Homes and Millionaire Mansions

This tour doesn’t shy away from the glitz. Expect to see some of Miami’s most lavish residences, homes owned by celebrities and wealthy entrepreneurs, all from the comfort of the boat. While not a formal mansion tour, the scenery gives you a glimpse into Miami’s luxurious side.

Wildlife and Marine Life

Keep your eyes peeled as dolphins often accompany the boat, and some reviews mention sightings of manatees and various fish. The crew’s experience helps spot marine life, and the snorkeling gear provided invites you to jump in and explore the underwater world at designated snorkeling spots, such as the sandbar or nearby islands.

Private Islands and Sandbars

The highlight is anchoring at secluded islands or sandbars, perfect for relaxing in the crystal-blue waters. You can sunbathe on the boat, swim, or snorkel amidst vibrant marine life. The floating mat is a favorite, offering a comfortable spot to lounge or play on the water. One guest described it as “like having your own private paradise,” emphasizing how special this part of the trip feels.

Food, Drinks, and Decorations

What sets this private trip apart is your ability to personalize it. Guests often bring snacks, beverages, and decorations, transforming the boat into a floating party. Champagne, water, and ice are supplied, and the sound system allows you to set your mood music. Some reviewers even mention celebrating birthdays or anniversaries, making it clear that this trip can turn into a memorable event.

Safety and Professionalism

All reviews underscore the importance of safety, noting that the captains are highly certified and the boats fully insured—crucial when you’re out on open waters. The crew’s professionalism and friendly nature contribute to a relaxed yet secure atmosphere.

Duration and Cost: Is It Worth It?

At $350 per person, this experience is on the higher-end for Miami tours, but the exclusivity, customization, and luxury amenities aim to justify the price. For groups celebrating special occasions or travelers seeking a memorable, private water adventure, the cost reflects a premium experience.

Given the size limit and personalized service, many find it to be a worthwhile splurge, especially when compared to larger, less intimate tours. The inclusion of water, snorkeling gear, and the floating mat adds tangible value, and the freedom to bring food and music makes it feel truly yours.

This trip is ideal for couples celebrating special moments, small groups of friends, or families wanting an exclusive day on the water. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate privacy, personalized experiences, and stunning scenery. If you’re looking for a luxury way to see Miami’s skyline, marine life, and private islands, this tour ticks all the boxes.

It’s also a smart choice for anyone wanting a flexible, casual atmosphere—bring your own drinks, snacks, and decorations to craft your perfect celebration. If you’re after a structured, large-group tour, this might not be the right fit, but for a small, tailored adventure, it stands out.

For travelers seeking a private, customizable water adventure in Miami, this boat trip offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, wildlife, and luxury amenities. The ability to personalize your experience—bringing your own music, food, and decorations—makes it feel like a special event, not just a tour.

The boat’s safety features, professional crew, and gorgeous views make it a reliable and memorable choice. Whether celebrating a milestone or simply escaping the hustle for a day, this trip provides an authentic, intimate connection with Miami’s stunning waters.

While it isn’t the cheapest option, the exclusivity and level of customization deliver good value for those wanting a private, relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private boat, water, ice, snorkeling gear, a floating mat, restroom access, and a Bluetooth sound system for your music.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, snacks, food & beverages, and alcoholic drinks if over 21. The tour allows you to personalize your experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Matheson Hammock Park & Marina and ends back at the same point.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, providing ample time for sightseeing, relaxing, and water activities.

How many people can go on this tour?
Up to 12 guests can join, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it family-friendly. Just consider child safety around water.

Do I need to book well in advance?
Yes, bookings are typically made about 28 days ahead, especially during peak seasons.

Are there any safety considerations?
All captains are USCG certified and the boats are fully insured, emphasizing safety throughout the trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This private Miami boat trip offers a vivid, personalized way to explore some of the city’s most beautiful waterfront sights—perfect for making special memories on the water.