Best Boating Trips Near Miami
Boaters in Miami snag the catch of the day, go deep sea diving and bask in the sun on relaxing trips throughout the bay. Enjoy Miami's fantastic coast, landmarks and wildlife on a sea-based tour, or just head out on a tip to explore in a boat all your own. These are the best bets for a sun-soaked day in the water this summer.
Biscayne Bay Boat Tours
via Safari Tours
Bayside Marketplace
401 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL 33132
(305) 956-9922
www.safaritoursmiami.com
Price: $39 per person
This bi-level yacht provides an incredible sightseeing experience with an ocean-side view of the larger-than-life luxury mansions of Star Island, the open water and massive cruise ships at the Port of Miami. From the open-air second level or the air-conditioned first level, guests may comfortably enjoy the sights of Biscayne Bay and the downtown Miami skyline. Snacks are served during the two-hour tour. A full service bar is available on board as well.
Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center
1635 N. Bayshore Dr.
Miami, FL 33132
(305) 377-2365
www.seaislemarina.com
Click here for services/call for pricing
As home to the annual Miami International Boat Show, this full-service marina provides all of the necessities for an enjoyable boating trip. Onsite, enjoy a full-service fuel station, boat cleaners and a convenience store. Boaters have access to Government Cut to enter the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The marina also offers short- and long-term docking options. Bring your own boat, or charter a yacht from Venetian Lady Yacht Charters.
Related: Best Limo Service in Miami
Haulover Marine Center
15000 Collins Ave.
Bal Harbour, FL 33154
(305) 945-3934
www.haulovermarinecenter.com
Price: $251 monthly
Located on Collins Avenue, this marina is adjacent to the ever-popular Intracoastal Waterway. Its large list of amenities include a bait and tackle shop for fishing, a marine store and boat-landing ramps. Haulover Marina Center even offers boat rentals for would-be boaters who don't have the cash to throw down for one of their own. Boaters may gas up at the on-site gas and diesel fuel station, or take part in charter fishing.
Black Point Park & Marina
24775 SW 87th Ave.
Homestead, FL 33032
(305) 258-4092
www.miamidade.gov/
Price: varies by location
The marina is open 24 hours – allowing for daytime and nighttime boating. Take advantage of its close proximity to Biscayne National Park. A great location for fishing and diving adventures, the marina is a favorite of local boaters galore. Though it's a Miami-Dade County park and marina, it doesn't skimp on the amenities that are standard at local marinas. Enjoy an on-site marine store, fuel station, bait and tackle shop, restaurant and bar.
Related: Best Charter Boats in South Florida
Atlantic Ocean & Biscayne Bay Tours
via Ocean Force Adventures
Miami Beach Marina
300 Alton Rd.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 372-3388
www.oceanforceadventures.com
Price: $150 per person
For a truly unique sea tour, Ocean Force Adventures conducts tours on special Zodiac RIB boats — the type used by law enforcement, including the U.S. Coast Guard — and covers more than 40 miles of waterway. In addition to the view of waterfront mansions, tour patrons view the Cape Florida Lighthouse on Key Biscayne and historic Stiltsville, and visit the Miami River, on a three-hour guided tour. Among the other highlights of the boating trip, encounter stingrays, dolphins and other sea life passing through the Upper Florida Keys Barrier Reef system. Those who don't like large crowds will appreciate the uniquely small groups on each tour.
For nearly 20 years, Shawanda James has been actively involved in creative writing in Miami, Florida. In addition to her work as a freelance writer, she is actively seeking publication for her debut novel and collection of poetry. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.