Miami · Biscayne Bay
Biscayne Bay Boat Tour
Private tours from $450. Stiltsville, sandbars, coral reefs, and dolphins.
12 vessels · Captain & crew included · No shared tours
Biscayne Bay Experience
Explore Miami's Crystal-Clear Heart
Biscayne Bay is the body of water that defines Miami. This protected, shallow bay stretches from the mainland to Miami Beach and Key Biscayne, creating a turquoise playground that rivals Caribbean destinations. The water is warm year-round, calm enough for any experience level, and teeming with marine life.
A private boat tour of Biscayne Bay takes you past the most exclusive island neighborhoods in America — Star Island, Fisher Island, and the Venetian Islands — where celebrity mansions line the waterfront. South of Key Biscayne, you will find Stiltsville, a collection of historic wooden houses standing on stilts in the bay since the 1930s. It is one of the most photographed and unusual landmarks in all of South Florida.
The bay is also home to the northernmost coral reef system in the continental United States, making it a prime spot for snorkeling and marine wildlife encounters. Dolphins are commonly spotted, and manatees frequent the shallower areas during cooler months. Your captain knows where the marine life gathers and will position the boat for the best viewing and swimming.
Biscayne Bay Highlights
- Stiltsville historic houses
- Star Island celebrity mansions
- Haulover Sandbar swimming
- Coral reef snorkeling
- Dolphin and manatee spotting
- Venetian Islands cruising
- Cape Florida Lighthouse views
- Miami skyline panoramas
Suggested Itinerary: Biscayne Bay Discovery (4-6 Hours)
- 10:00 AM Depart from Biscayne Bay marina. Cruise past the downtown Miami skyline and under the MacArthur Causeway.
- 10:30 AM Star Island and Fisher Island loop. Photograph the waterfront mansions and learn the history from your captain.
- 11:30 AM Cruise south toward Key Biscayne. Pass the Rickenbacker Causeway and approach Stiltsville for photos.
- 12:30 PM Anchor at a snorkeling reef or sandbar. Swim, snorkel, and enjoy the water. Lunch on deck (BYOB or catered).
- 2:00 PM Cruise the Venetian Islands chain on the return. Spot dolphins in the shallows.
- 3:00 PM Return to dock with memories and photos of the best of Biscayne Bay.
Our Fleet
Tour Vessels for Biscayne Bay
Common Questions
Biscayne Bay Boat Tour — FAQ
What is there to see on a Biscayne Bay boat tour?
Biscayne Bay is home to Star Island and Fisher Island celebrity mansions, the historic Stiltsville houses standing on stilts a mile offshore, the Venetian Islands chain, coral reefs and snorkeling spots, the Haulover Sandbar, and abundant marine life including dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. The bay also offers stunning views of the downtown Miami and Miami Beach skylines.
How much does a Biscayne Bay boat tour cost?
Private Biscayne Bay tours start from $450 for a 2-hour charter. For a group of 8 on a sport boat, that is about $56 per person. A 4-hour tour on a mid-size yacht starts from $1,600 (about $123 per person for 13 guests). All prices include captain, fuel, and crew.
Is Biscayne Bay calm enough for a boat tour?
Yes. Biscayne Bay is a protected body of water shielded from open ocean swells by Miami Beach and Key Biscayne. The bay's calm, shallow waters make it ideal for boating at any experience level — including families with young children. Morning tours typically offer the smoothest conditions.
Can I swim and snorkel during a Biscayne Bay tour?
Absolutely. Popular swim and snorkel stops include the Haulover Sandbar (shallow turquoise water perfect for wading), the reefs near Key Biscayne (home to the northernmost coral reef in the continental U.S.), and various protected coves. Your captain will select the best spots based on conditions.
What is Stiltsville and can I visit it by boat?
Stiltsville is a collection of historic wooden houses built on stilts in the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay, about a mile south of Key Biscayne. Originally built in the 1930s, seven structures remain today and are part of Biscayne National Park. You can cruise past and photograph them from your boat — they are one of Miami's most unique landmarks.
How long should I book a Biscayne Bay tour?
A 2-hour tour covers the Star Island loop and skyline views. A 4-hour tour adds a sandbar or snorkeling stop and more relaxed cruising. For the full Biscayne Bay experience — island cruising, swimming, Stiltsville, and possibly a sunset return — book 6 hours.
What is the best time of year for a Biscayne Bay boat tour?
Year-round. The bay is warm and navigable every month. Winter (December-April) offers the best weather with mild temperatures and low humidity. Spring and fall have pleasant conditions with fewer crowds. Summer is warm with occasional afternoon thunderstorms — morning tours are recommended.