Cruise Biscayne Bay: Miami Small-Group Boat Tour to Stiltsville, Dolphins & Downtown Sights
Glide across Biscayne Bay on a two-hour small-boat tour that pairs Miami skyline views with close encounters of the marine kind. From the raised houses of Stiltsville to dolphin sightings and the Scarface mansion, this guided excursion gives a compact, water-level perspective on the city.
The Experience
Before You Go
Morning light, better wildlife
Book an early departure—dolphins and manatees are more active and the skyline photographs without harsh midday glare.
Pack a light wind layer
Sea breezes can be strong even on warm days; a thin shell keeps you comfortable on deck.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
The bay is generally calm but open water can roll—medicate ahead if you’re sensitive to motion.
Respect protected areas
Stiltsville sits within Biscayne National Park—follow your guide’s instructions and avoid touching historic pilings or disturbing wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet view of Cape Florida Light from the seaward side—less crowded than the state park shoreline
- •Early-morning river run past historic Miami River warehouses for a sense of the city’s working waterfront
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •West Indian manatees
Conservation Note
Biscayne Bay is ecologically sensitive—stay on-board unless instructed otherwise, avoid litter, and support operators who follow park and wildlife regulations.
Stiltsville grew from informal weekend shacks into cultural icons tied to prohibition-era gatherings and later film shoots; the area is now protected within Biscayne National Park.
Photographer's Notes
- • Off the south side of Biscayne Bay near Stiltsville for pilings and house silhouettes
- • Approach to Cape Florida Lighthouse for classic maritime shots
- • Passing Star Island for waterfront mansion panoramas
What to Bring
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
High UV and reflected glare from the water make sunscreen essential year-round, especially in summer.
Light windproof jacketEssential
A thin shell blocks bay breezes during cooler mornings or winter months.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare off the water and helps you spot marine life.
Compact zoom camera (70–200mm equivalent)
A short telephoto helps capture dolphins, manatees, and shoreline architecture without crowding the boat.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately two hours, departing from Miami Beach Marina (Dock E).
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No—dolphins and manatees are commonly seen but wildlife is never guaranteed; sightings depend on conditions and animal movement.
Is Stiltsville always accessible?
Access to Stiltsville is weather-dependent and may be altered during small-craft advisories for safety reasons.
What is the group size?
Tours are limited to six passengers, keeping the experience intimate and easy to move around on deck.
Are children allowed?
Children are allowed, but infants must sit on an adult’s lap; the operator does not recommend the tour for very young infants.
Is transportation provided from hotels?
No hotel pickup is provided; meet at Miami Beach Marina. Public transportation options are available nearby.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Miami Beach, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires boarding a small boat and standing or sitting on deck for up to two hours.
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