Ft. Lauderdale: Party Boat Tour to the Sandbar with Tunes

Planning a day on the water in Fort Lauderdale? This party boat tour offers a lively, relaxing mix of music, swimming, and sightseeing that’s perfect for groups seeking fun and sun. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a vibrant water adventure, this experience promises a memorable 2-hour escape. Our review is based on numerous guest feedback and detailed tour info, so you can decide if it fits your travel style.

We love the casual bar-style atmosphere with a DJ spinning hits, and the chance to swim at the legendary sandbar. It’s a relaxed, social experience that captures the carefree spirit of South Florida. A potential consideration is that the 7 pm tour doesn’t include swimming, so if a swim is a must, the earlier slots are better suited. This tour is ideal for groups, party-goers, and those wanting a lively, scenic water experience with good value.

Key Points

• Vibrant party atmosphere with DJ music and water floats.
• Bring your own drinks for a customizable, lively experience.
• Swim at the iconic Fort Lauderdale sandbar or enjoy sightseeing.
• Expert guides ensure safety and local insights.
• Great value for money considering the entertainment, scenery, and amenities.
• Flexible scheduling with multiple departure times and full refund options when canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Look at the Ft. Lauderdale Party Boat Experience

If you’ve ever wanted a taste of the high-energy, fun-loving side of Fort Lauderdale, this boat tour might be just what you need. The experience is designed to be a social, lively outing that combines sightseeing, music, and water fun, all within a surprisingly efficient two-hour window. We’ll guide you through what you can expect, why it’s worth considering, and how to make the most of your time on the water.

The Departure and Location

The tour departs from the Staying Afloat Party Boat at Bahia Mar, located on the north side of the Bahia Mar hotel behind the Double Tree. The meeting point is straightforward: after parking, you’ll enter through the Bahia Mar gate, take a ticket, and follow signs to Dock H (Dock i). Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended, especially if you want to park comfortably and locate the dock without stress. The coordinates—26.1139, -80.1056—are handy for GPS.

The Itinerary: What’s on the Agenda?

The cruise begins with about 30 minutes of a guided tour through the Las Olas Isles, which offers a chance to see some of the most impressive yachts and waterfront mansions. This part of the journey is quite relaxing, and you’ll love the chance to snap photos of the luxurious homes and sleek boats lining the waterways—an instant reminder of how the other half lives.

Next, the boat anchors at the Fort Lauderdale Sandbar—a popular gathering spot filled with boats, floats, and party energy. This is where the real fun kicks in: guests are encouraged to swim, float on water toys, or simply relax in the sun. The tour provides floaties like unicorns and flamingos, which add a playful vibe, and the water is usually inviting. According to reviews, people rave about the “blast” of this part, with some guests noting it as the highlight.

The last leg of the tour is a 30-minute cruise down the New River, giving a scenic view of downtown Fort Lauderdale’s skyline—think high-rise condos, yachts, and bridges. If you’re a sightseeing enthusiast, this segment offers plenty of photo opportunities.

The Sandbar Stop: The Main Attraction

Most guests look forward to the swimming stop at the sandbar—a lively, quintessentially Floridian scene. The sandbar is a hub of activity, with boats, water toys, music, and people hanging out in the sun. It’s an ideal spot to make a splash, whether that’s swimming, floating, or just relaxing on the deck.

One reviewer describes it as a “blast,” highlighting how the crew ensures everyone has fun and stays safe. Another guest mentions that the crew “made sure we were never without a drink,” which shows how attentive the staff are to guest comfort and entertainment.

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The Atmosphere: Music and Social Vibe

The DJ setup onboard is a highlight. The large sound system, combined with hit tunes, creates a bar-style party right on the water. It’s a great way to dance, sing along, and enjoy the vibe with friends or fellow travelers. The crew loves to keep the energy up, and reviews frequently mention how the guides “made it fun” and “got the party going.”

Who It’s Perfect For

This tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxed yet lively atmosphere—perfect for groups of friends, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or anyone craving a fun day on the water. If you prefer a tranquil, sightseeing-only experience, this might not be your ideal choice, especially since the focus is on entertainment and socializing. The flexible schedule with multiple start times helps you pick the one that fits your plans.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the experience is largely positive, some considerations are worth noting. The 7 pm tour does not include swimming at the sandbar, so if swimming is essential, opt for the earlier options at 10 am, 1 pm, or 4 pm. Also, guests love to bring their own food and drinks (no glass), which enhances the party vibe. The boat provides coolers and bottled water free of charge, but bringing extra snacks or beverages is common.

Parking can be straightforward but arriving early is recommended. Be aware that refunds are only available if you cancel 24 hours in advance, so plan accordingly. The boat itself can get crowded if you’re not early, and some reviews mention that the 7 pm boat can feel a bit cramped, so consider your comfort level.

The Crew and Customer Service

Guest reviews consistently praise Captain John, Jennifer, BJ, and V for their friendly, attentive, and fun demeanor. They’re described as both knowledgeable and personable, adding a personal touch that makes the experience memorable. Many guests comment on the “great local recommendations” and how the crew keeps the party lively while maintaining safety.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This boat tour delivers a fun, scenic, and social experience in Fort Lauderdale. You get to see some of the most impressive waterfront homes, enjoy a lively party atmosphere with music, and take a refreshing dip at the sandbar—all in just two hours. The value for money is notable, especially considering the inclusions like water toys, coolers, and entertainment.

It’s especially appealing for young travelers, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting a relaxed party vibe with fantastic views. If you’re looking for a more subdued or scenic-only cruise, this might not suit your taste, but if you want to dance, swim, and socialize in the sun, it’s a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

This party boat tour offers a lively, authentic taste of Fort Lauderdale’s water-loving culture. The combination of scenic yacht views, water fun, and music creates a memorable outing that balances relaxation with entertainment. The friendly guides and good value for money make it accessible to a broad range of travelers, especially those eager for a spirited day on the water.

While it’s not a quiet sightseeing cruise, it delivers on the kind of fun, casual vibe that many visitors crave. Just remember to choose your departure time wisely if swimming is part of your plan. The experience is best enjoyed with a group, a sense of humor, and a willingness to dance in the sun.

FAQs

Can I bring my own drinks and food onboard?
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, as long as they are not glass. The boat provides coolers with free bottled water, but you’re welcome to enhance your experience with additional snacks and beverages.

Does the tour include swimming at the sandbar?
Most departure times (10 am, 1 pm, 4 pm) include a swimming stop at the sandbar. The 7 pm tour does not feature a swim, focusing instead on cruising through Downtown Fort Lauderdale.

How early should I arrive?
Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended to park, get your bearings, and ensure you’re ready for the scheduled departure. Early arrival also helps avoid overcrowding and guarantees a good spot on the boat.

Is there a bathroom onboard?
Yes, the boat is equipped with a bathroom, adding convenience during your short trip.

What’s the main draw of this tour?
Guests consistently cite the friendly crew, fun atmosphere, and stunning yacht views as the highlights. The combination of music, water toys, and scenic cruising keeps everyone entertained.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Refunds aren’t available for missed trips or cancellations within the 24-hour window, so plan ahead.

To sum it up, this Ft. Lauderdale party boat tour is a lively, value-packed way to enjoy a slice of South Florida’s famous water lifestyle. It’s perfect for those wanting good scenery, great music, and a chance to swim at a legendary local spot—all wrapped in a friendly, high-energy package.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby