Miami: Sandbar, Billionare’s & Raccoon Island Private Tour

Imagine cruising through Miami’s shimmering waters aboard a sleek, powerful boat, exploring secret islands, spotting playful dolphins, and getting a glimpse of celebrity homes. That’s exactly what this private tour offers. It’s a chance to see Miami from a fresh perspective, combining natural beauty with a touch of luxury and exclusivity.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is its blend of scenic relaxation and the thrill of spotting wildlife like dolphins and marine creatures. Plus, the opportunity to interact with raccoons at Raccoon Island adds a quirky, memorable element. On the flip side, some travelers might find the tour’s focus on celebrity homes a bit limited in detail or the optional extras like paddleboarding come at extra costs.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a flexible, private outing—ideal for family groups, friends, or even couples wanting an intimate Miami adventure. If you’re eager to combine sightseeing with fun water activities in a laid-back setting, this private boat trip fits the bill.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests
• Highlights include celebrity islands, sandbars, and wildlife sightings
• Comfortable twin-engine boat with onboard amenities like sound system and fresh water shower
• Flexible itinerary with options to add hours or customize stops
• Great value for groups since you share the cost with friends or family
• Suitable for all ages except those with mobility issues or specific restrictions

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Miami Private Boat Tour

This tour from Miami Ocean Tours promises a lot: celebrity island sightings, swimming at sandbars, and wildlife encounters—all in just three hours. It’s designed to provide a taste of Miami’s luxurious side while offering plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The boat itself is a sturdy twin-engine vessel, recently upgraded to ensure smooth, swift rides. It features a sun deck for lounging, a transom shower for rinsing off after swimming, and a sound system to set the mood. Captain Henry, who leads the tour, is praised for his friendliness and knowledge, often entertaining guests with insights about Miami’s mansions and islands. As one reviewer exclaims, “Henry was unreal! Best captain ever,” highlighting how much guests enjoy his company and expertise.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Bill Bird Marina on Collins Ave, a convenient spot with free parking, making it easy to start your Miami adventure. From there, the boat takes you along Miami Beach to see some of the most famous mansions and hidden hideaways. While the tour doesn’t focus heavily on detailed commentary about each residence—some guests note the captain could provide more info—the scenery alone is worth the ride.

The first major stop, Raccoon Island, is a playful highlight. You’ll likely see raccoons scurrying around, and depending on the timing, may snorkel or simply enjoy a quick swim. Guests love the marine life viewing here, with one review mentioning, “We loved watching the marine life, and the raccoons added a fun, unexpected touch.”

Next is Haulover Sandbar, the prime swimming spot. It’s famous for its shallow waters and lively atmosphere, perfect for floating, chatting, and cooling off. Expect clear, warm water and lots of folks enjoying the sun. You might even spot dolphins cruising nearby, a common perk on this trip, according to reviews. One guest noted, “Hopefully we’d see dolphins… and sure enough, they cruised right past us.”

The third stop is Indian Creek, which offers a guided tour element with some sightseeing and land-based commentary. It’s a quieter, more relaxed spot, ideal for a change of scenery before heading back to port.

The Experience and What You Need to Know

The vessel is equipped with amenities making your trip comfortable—Bluetooth-compatible sound system, a cooler with ice and water, and the option to bring your own drinks. Suggested add-ons include paddleboarding and drone videos, which are offered at additional costs.

Since the tour is private, it can be easily customized. Want more time at the sandbar? Or perhaps a longer dolphin watching session? Just ask Captain Henry. This flexibility is a huge plus, especially if you’re traveling with kids or special interests.

Reviews and Real Traveler Insights

The overall rating of 4.9/5 from 20 reviews indicates high satisfaction. Many guests rave about Captain Henry’s professionalism and knowledge—”Henry made the trip very enjoyable,” one reviewer says. Others appreciate the stunning views and the chance to see Miami’s famous islands up close.

However, a couple of reviews do mention minor issues. One guest noted that the pickup point was not very accurate, leading to some initial confusion. Another pointed out that the cost paid directly to the captain ($140) was not clear upfront, so travelers should be prepared for some on-site payments.

Some reviews emphasize that dolphins are often spotted, making the trip more memorable, and the wildlife viewing at Raccoon Island is a fun, unexpected bonus. The experience seems well worth the price, especially for groups sharing the cost.

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Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 3 hours, which is enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed.
• Group size: Up to 6 guests, ideal for intimate family getaways or small groups.
• Cost: Captain fee is $80 per hour, plus optional extras like paddleboarding or drone videos.
• What to bring: Towels, sunscreen, swimwear, snacks, drinks, and hats.
• What’s included: Fuel, water, cooler, and the boat amenities.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for people with mobility issues or certain health restrictions (e.g., recent surgeries, weight limits, age restrictions over 95).
• Language: Tours are offered in English and Spanish, catering to diverse travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private boat experience will appeal most to those seeking a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Miami’s waters. Families with kids, small groups of friends, or couples will enjoy the exclusivity and customization options. If you love wildlife, swimming, and scenic views with a touch of celebrity glamour, this trip hits all the right notes.

However, if you prefer more detailed historical commentary or a larger, more structured tour, this might not be the best fit. The focus here is on personalized fun, natural beauty, and flexible stops. Also, travelers with mobility challenges should consider other options, as the tour isn’t designed for those with specific access needs.

The Sum Up

This private Miami boat tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to spend a few hours exploring some of the city’s most fascinating sights from the water. It combines the thrill of wildlife spotting, swimming in shallow sandbars, and the fun of seeing celebrity islands—all aboard a comfortable, modern vessel.

Great for small groups who want a personalized experience, it’s a chance to relax, take in the scenery, and maybe spot some dolphins while enjoying the company of friends or family. Captain Henry’s friendly demeanor and local knowledge help make it more than just a sightseeing cruise—it’s a memorable Miami adventure.

For those who love water-based outings with the flexibility to customize, this tour offers excellent value. Just be prepared for some on-site payments and minor logistical details. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a fun escape on the water, it’s a journey worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, allowing you to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, you can work with Captain Henry to add hours or tailor the stops to your interests, making your experience more personal.

What amenities are available on board?
The boat has a Kenwood sound system, Bluetooth hookup, sun deck, transom water shower, and a cooler with ice and water. You can bring your own drinks and towels.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s suitable for most, but not for those with mobility restrictions or certain health conditions. The boat does not accommodate non-folding wheelchairs or strollers.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, towels, snacks, and drinks. The boat does not provide food, but you can request delivery or bring your own.

Are dolphins often seen?
Many guests do report dolphin sightings cruising in the Bay waters, adding an exciting wildlife element to the trip.

This private boat tour in Miami offers a delightful combination of scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and celebrity island glimpses—perfect for those after an authentic, fun-filled day on the water.

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