Rent the best boat in town | up to 10 people

If you’re looking for a flexible way to soak in Miami’s unique waterfront charm, a private boat tour might be just the ticket. This particular experience, offered by Aquarius Boat Rental and Tours, promises an intimate, customizable cruise through Biscayne Bay for groups up to ten people. It’s a chance to see Miami from a different angle—gliding past celebrity mansions, scenic islands, and historic landmarks like Stiltsville—all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat.

What’s especially appealing here? First, the ability to tailor your itinerary means you can focus on what interests you most—be it the stunning waterfront homes, relaxing on a floating mat, or simply enjoying the sunset. Second, the relaxed, private setting allows for easy BYOB and a laid-back vibe. Yet, it’s worth noting that the captain fees are extra, and parking can be modestly priced but requires some planning.

This tour is ideal if you value flexibility and personalized experiences, want a scenic break from crowded tourist spots, or are celebrating a special occasion with friends or family. It’s not a group tour with a set route, but rather a chance to craft your own Miami water adventure.

Key Points

• Private, customizable cruise ideal for up to 10 people
• Meet your captain at Miami Beach’s West Ave dock and set your own pace
• Includes safety gear, Bluetooth, and a floating mat for fun and relaxation
• BYOB allowed for a more personalized experience
• Cost of boat rental is $560, with captain fees paid separately
• Flexible duration from 1 to 4 hours, fitting various schedules

Why Choose This Private Boat Tour?

This experience offers more than just a boat ride; it’s a chance to see Miami’s most iconic sights from the water while enjoying the privacy and comfort of your own vessel. The 29-foot boat provides enough space for a small group, making it perfect for families, friends, or couples who want a more intimate adventure. The inclusion of a Bluetooth sound system and floating mats adds an extra layer of fun, turning the cruise into a lively, relaxing escape.

What really sets this apart is the ability to personalize your journey. Want to cruise past celebrity mansions and then chill on a floating mat by a scenic island? No problem. Think of it as your own water-based tour, steered by a captain who’s there to ensure safety and smooth sailing. Most guests seem to love this flexibility, with reviews highlighting how well it suited their interests and relaxed vibe.

What the Tour Looks Like

Meeting Point & Check-In: The adventure kicks off at 518 West Ave in Miami Beach. Arriving here, you’ll meet your captain, hop aboard the 29-foot vessel, and get a quick safety briefing. You’ll find the dock near public transportation options, making it fairly accessible.

The Itinerary & Sights: Since the tour can be tailored, your captain might guide you past famous celebrity homes, showcasing luxury waterfront estates—Miami’s version of Hollywood. Some guests mention enjoying views of the city skyline and scenic islands. The highlight for many is cruising through Biscayne Bay, where you can spot historic sites like Stiltsville, a collection of quirky houses built on stilts in the bay.

Duration & Flexibility: Depending on your booking, your cruise could last anywhere from an hour to four hours. A two-hour sunset cruise, for example, seems particularly popular, providing a peaceful hour or two with calm waters and glowing skies. Longer cruises allow for more exploration and relaxation, with the chance to stop at islands or float on the mats.

Onboard Comfort & Fun: The boat is equipped with safety gear and a Bluetooth sound system for your playlist. You’re welcome to bring drinks—perhaps some wine and snacks—making it a relaxed party or chill outing. Keep in mind, the captain’s fee is extra, at $40/hour (or $50/hour on federal holidays), payable at the dock.

Additional Perks: The floating mat is a hit, giving you a chance to lounge in the water without getting wet. The experience is designed to be easy and fun, with most guests saying it’s a great way to beat Miami’s heat or unwind after sightseeing.

Real Guest Experiences & Insights

One guest, Jeff, called it a “fun on the water” experience, praising Captain Thibault for making it memorable. He loved the chance to see celebrity homes and enjoy the water with friends. Another, Tony, appreciated a two-hour sunset cruise with Captain John, calling it “perfect,” which hints at how well the timing and crew can enhance the experience.

Rushimisha found the captain “awesome,” describing him as friendly and kind—highlighting the importance of a good captain for a smooth ride. Alma, who celebrated her 55th birthday on the boat, mentioned that the vessel and captain were excellent, though she noted that drinks and ice aren’t provided, so plan ahead if you want to keep your beverages cold.

These reviews show that the experience consistently hits the mark on fun, relaxation, and professional service. The fact that it’s a private, all-group experience adds to its appeal—your party gets a personalized tour without strangers in the mix.

Analyzing the Value

At $560 for up to 10 people, the cost breaks down to about $56 per person for an hour of private boating—an attractive value considering the exclusivity and customization involved. Remember, the captain’s fee is additional, which means you’re paying around $4 per minute for the boat plus the captain’s time, safety equipment, and extras like the floating mat and Bluetooth system.

Compared to large group tours or crowded boat excursions, this private option offers more flexibility and comfort. If you’re celebrating a special event or simply want a stress-free, personalized day on the water, it’s a good investment. Plus, bringing your own drinks and snacks keeps costs low and lets you enjoy a tailored experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat tour works well for small groups wanting a relaxed, private experience. It’s perfect for families, friends, or couples who prefer to avoid large, regimented tours. If you like the idea of customizing your sightseeing, enjoying scenic views, and having the freedom to lounge or chat at your own pace, this tour hits that sweet spot.

It’s also suitable for those celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just a fun day out. The flexibility in duration from 1 to 4 hours makes it adaptable to different schedules, whether you want a quick cruise or a longer adventure. Just keep in mind that the tour is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 10 people comfortably, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What’s included in the price?
The boat rental costs $560, including safety equipment, Bluetooth sound system, and floating mats. Captain fees are extra and paid separately at the dock.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own beverages aboard—snacks and alcohol included—making it a relaxed outing.

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is at 518 West Ave, Miami Beach. It’s near public transportation, so getting there is fairly straightforward.

How long can the cruise last?
The cruise duration is flexible, ranging from about 1 to 4 hours, depending on your booking.

Is this experience suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, including service animals. It’s ideal for those wanting a private, customizable boat experience. Keep in mind the non-refundable policy when booking.

Final thoughts

This private Miami boat tour by Aquarius Boat Rental and Tours offers a superb way to see the city’s highlights from the water without the crowds or the rigid schedules of larger group tours. Its biggest strengths lie in its personalization, comfort, and relaxed vibe. For groups wanting an intimate, fun, and scenic escape, it’s hard to beat.

The inclusion of amenities like Bluetooth speakers and float mats adds to the enjoyment, making it suitable for those who want a casual, enjoyable outing. The flexible timing means you can tailor the experience to match your plans—whether a quick sunset cruise or a longer exploration of Miami’s waterways.

While there is an extra cost for the captain and some planning required (parking, bringing drinks), the overall value for a private, scenic adventure is quite compelling. Just remember to book in advance, as most trips are booked around nine days ahead, and be prepared for non-refundable policies.

In the end, this tour is best suited for anyone looking for a custom, intimate, and scenic way to enjoy Miami’s waterways—a memorable experience that can suit celebrations, romantic outings, or simply a day of fun with friends.