A stay in a hotel and vacation rental in Miami is never complete without engaging in any water activity — be it swimming in Lummus Park Beach or diving in Grove Scuba. After all, Florida is popular for its white sandy beaches and relatively warmer weather compared to other American states. You mustn’t miss out on the cool summer breeze here! But you don’t necessarily have to physically exhaust yourself to get the most fun out of your stay. Several cruises are available to satisfy your much-needed “vitamin sea” — from relaxing half-day journeys around the bay to an extensive full-day tour inclusive of swimming in the Bahamas or a safari animal exhibition. Some of these excursions also offer pickups from your family resort accommodation - a plus for convenience. If you have at least a few hours to spare, choose from these best day cruises in Miami, Florida.
Popular picks in Miami
Beachcombers will never run out of options as Miami boasts several beaches where you can soak in the Floridian sunshine. Solitude seekers can head to Mid Beach and North Beach while Surfside BeachSurfside and Bal Harbour are where you can enjoy relaxing swims.
Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in various watersports, such as stand-up paddleboarding around Virginia Key, diving around the coral reefs, and sailing by the Coconut Grove.
1. Embark on a cruise along Millionaire's Row
This cruise along Millionaire’s Row is perfect for anyone wanting to end the day right. The vessel itself is modern and comfortable, and also complete with cash bars and bathrooms. The trip allows you to leisurely traverse through Biscayne Bay — particularly along the bayside areas where the skyline looks pretty neat.
You’ll pass by the Port of Miami, where you can spot several impressive buildings, marinas, and even large cruise boats. This boat tour in Miami also crosses through celebrity homes and mansions that line up Millionaire’s Row, where you can get inspired by how they have been built. If you are more into architecture than wild treks, then this relaxing 90-minute tour is for you.
Book Tours : Miami Millionaires Row Cruise
2. Spot an alligator while on vacation
During summer, grabbing a deal for tours might be challenging. It’s great knowing that several combo packages are offered by other operators. Usually, in addition to navigating through the crystal-clear waters of Biscayne Bay, cruises feature a narrated tour into the nearby Florida Everglades, which is a wetland with mangrove forests, sawgrass marshes, and pine flatwoods. The entire Everglades ecosystem has been put under UNESCO protection as it is home to endangered animal species — including the leatherback turtle. This particular tour includes an alligator show and a brief walk through the jungle. If you haven’t seen an alligator in your lifetime, you may want to try it on your next Miami visit.
3. Enjoy scenic sights away from the crowds on a private cruise
Ever wondered what it’s like to spend a few hours cruising away from all the noise and swarm of crowds? This private boat ride experience in Miami can answer it for you! Skip the long lines and hop on an exciting cruise across Biscayne Bay with the company of your loved ones.
You will love the sights of Miami’s scenic districts as you traverse across the waters with an experienced captain. From the impressive mansions that line up Millionaire’s Row to the breathtaking skyline of Downtown Miami, there’s much to see. For a better experience, book the last trip and enjoy the best of the city during sunset.
4. Indulge in some educational sightseeing around the bay
This package is comprehensive enough to include a city tour by a coach, a boat ride around the 35-mile-long (56-kilometer-long) Biscayne Bay, and an engaging airboat tour through the Everglades Safari. For only under 100 USD, you experience quite an enriching and rewarding Miami vacation. You will enjoy both the captivating sun-lit city skyline and the unique wilderness landscape in a day. This nine-hour journey is narrated by an expert guide so overall, the tour is a timely opportunity not only for sightseeing but also for learning.
Miami Tour Guide
Alexander Gorn
I was born in Leningrad, now St. Petersburg, in the Soviet Union, and left for the USA when I was 23 years old, just out of college. Leningrad was and still is a city with great cultural traditions. I fell in love with its world-famous museums, art galleries, theaters, and other attractions. I have been guiding tours for most of my life and began while still in high school. During the summer... Read more
Tours by Alexander
5. Set sail on a pirate ship
Do you wanna explore the breathtaking Miami waterfront on a one-of-a kind experience? Book this affordable trip with your family to experience being on a pirate ship for 80 minutes.
As you have plenty of fun aboard this cruise, you’ll not only capture mesmerizing views of the sun-splashed skyline from the deck, but also enjoy binge-eating and drinking all the way through. Food and drinks are available for purchase but the live entertainment is absolutely free for all pirate guests on board.
6. Witness a wild animal show and drive through a tropical wetland on an air boat
This adventure tour and boat cruise in Everglades and Star Island is a must-grab activity when in Miami. This tour is slightly longer than other wilderness packages. You will be exploring places on an air boat which adds to the depth of this immersive experience. You can even feel the water splashing as you navigate through Miami’s waters. The trip also includes an animal show at the Safari Park, one of the top five destinations in Miami. Don’t worry, as this trip is safe and not as exhausting as it appears. Upon return, you’ll be riding in a comfortable tourist boat as you enjoy the sight of Miami mansions.
7. Indulge in a luxury two-hour boat ride
At least once in your lifetime, treat yourself to a nice, leisurely ride around the Miami Beach area. For two unforgettable hours, you get to enjoy the warmth of the Miami sun, the colorful waterfront sights, and the delightful taste of included refreshments. The boat picks you up and drops you off at Grand Doubletree, Bayshore. Although a little expensive compared to group tours, this premium private tour is more convenient, relaxing, and intimate. It takes you to South Beach, Biscayne Bay, and Star Island. You may even get to set foot on the beautiful, uninhabited Picnic Island. Take your date or your entire family with you on this lovely getaway.
8. Enjoy a guided tour on a budget
Miami boat rides do not have to leave big holes in your pockets. This guided tour is priced at approximately 20 USD for an hour and a half of cruising through the breathtaking Miami Bay. You will love how informative the guide is. Here, you will not only delight your eyes but also empower your mind. If sitting in an open-air space under the (sometimes) scorching Miami heat does not exactly suit you well, you can sit in a controlled room environment on the boat’s lower floor. Yes, the boat is an awesome double-decker offering you a better view of the surroundings. At Bayside Marketplace — the pick-up and drop-off point — you can further maximize the value of this trip by tasting local delicacies.
Book Tours : Miami Boat Tour
9. Explore a man-made island on a double-decker boat
There are many interesting places around Biscayne Bay — including Star Island that is a man-made island inhabited by famous personalities and is open for public viewing. Among the celebrity houses on the island are Shaquille O'Neal and Don Johnson’s lovely residences. Joining the list of fancy mansions for your sightseeing pleasure are the houses in the Millionaire’s Row which all look ethereally beautiful from a double-decker boat. For an affordable price, you can enjoy all these pleasant and inspiring sights by joining the tour.
Book Tours : Miami Boat Tour of Millionaire's Row & Star Island
10. Join a 90-minute sightseeing spree with your kids
Are you bringing your kids to your next Miami vacation? You don’t need to worry about leaving them in a hotel as this cruise is labeled kid-friendly. The railings on the upper deck are closed-in for better security. This 90-minute sightseeing tour takes you around the bay under the care of an informative guide. Your family will ultimately enjoy the information being shared just as they appreciate the downtown skyline view from the boat. The tour runs from 11:30 in the morning, but you can catch the later schedule at 4:30 in the evening to catch the golden hour.
Book Tours : Miami Beach Sightseeing Cruise
11. Enjoy a nice warm swim at the Bahamas
Bimini Day Cruise takes you to the Bahamas Island, which is pretty much every sea wanderer’s dream. You will be conveniently picked up from your hotel and transported in an air-conditioned ferry to Bimini Big Game Resort and Marina, where you are free to do whatever you want. You can take a nice long swim, read a book by the shore, or engage in some watersports. This journey is relatively longer but also more flexible. It will allow you to savor the beauty of the Miami views better — including South Beach and Fort Lauderdale. So, be prepared to wake up at 5am when you book this tour.
Other cruise options in Miami
If you’re looking for a longer voyage on the seas, fret not, as Miami offers access to many cruise lines meant for multiple-day trips. Most of these cruises come with top-notch amenities such as restaurants, recreational facilities, and more for a wholesome experience. Check them out below!
12. Azamara Club Cruises
Azamara Club Cruises cater to those unconventional travellers who love to explore beyond the ordinary. The unique offerings of Azamara include butler service provided in every suite, live entertainment, two speciality restaurants which provide the finest cuisine and lots more. Azamara Club Cruises consists of two ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest. Each of them carries 694 guests to the destinations they desire. Miami is one such destination which is catered by this cruise club. It is a great place to relax and have an absolutely rejuvenated weekend.
Azamara Club Cruises
Website: Azamara Club Cruises
13. Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines are amongst the world’s most popular cruises catering to millions of happy customers each year. A total of 26 ships operate 3- to 24-day voyages, departing from every coast in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and Barbados. Though it is popularly known for its Caribbean cruises, it sails to other exotic destinations including Mexico, Alaska, The Bahamas, Cuba, Hawaii, and the Far East. Miami is the ideal place for a quick island vacation and is rightly called as the cruise capital of the world. Cruise to multiple scenic destinations from Miami including the Bahamas, Little Havana, and of course South Beach as well.
Carnival Cruise Lines
Website: Carnival Cruise Lines
14. Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line ships have been pampering guests right since its inception. Their award-winning services and excellent amenities have made it amongst the best-rated cruise ships across the globe. Each ship is equipped with facilities including restaurants, nightclubs, shops and recreational facilities that make cruising a pleasure for guests coming from different walks of life. They offer multiple packages and the best time to travel at a minimal rate are during mid-January and between September to November. Embark on a sensational journey as you set sail from this stupendous cruise liner.
Disney Cruise Linen
Website: Disney Cruise Line
15. MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately-owned cruise liner across top countries like Europe and South America. Their ships sail year-round to exotic destinations including the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Besides this, they have multiple itineraries in place to explore marvellous destinations such as Northern Europe, the Atlantic Ocean, South America, southern Africa, China, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and India. MSC Divina cruises are under the parent company of the MSC Cruises which sails from Miami to the gorgeous port of Carribean Islands. The cruise liner is a value for money and provides top class amenities for a delightful sailing experience.
MSC Cruises
Website: MSC Cruises
16. Oceania Cruises
Indulge in a luxurious experience of a lifetime when you set sail with the world-class Oceania Cruises. They have multiple planned itineraries in place along with fabulous discounts all year round. It is rated as one of the most cost-efficient cruise liners across the globe. Discover the beauty of America and Europe and have some of the most sumptuous delicacies on board. Explore inspiring destinations at an incomparable value only with Oceania Cruises.
Oceania Cruises
Website: Oceania Cruises
Tour Miami on a splendid day cruise
Miami, Florida is to be experienced on a boat, not just on the coach. Its warm weather, rich aquatic preserve, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters are too beautiful to be left undiscovered. Given the available choices for both group and private tours, from short cruises in Miami to full-day trips, there is certainly one that suits your budget needs and personal interests. Try any of the above best day cruises on your next visit to this city.
Frequently asked questions about the best day cruises in Miami
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