
Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 73 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville worth booking?
Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville is a 2-hour experience in Miami, United States, from $187 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 73 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 74 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (73)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $187 per person
Experience Miami by water with an expert local guide on an authentic and immersive small group boat tour. Miami’s history comes alive exploring the city’s hidden gems, popular sights, marine life, and the iconic Stiltsville. This intimate, guided boat tour is perfect for up to six passengers. Departing from Miami Beach Marina in the heart of South Beach, our journey begins with a sweeping view of Miami from the clear blue waters of Biscayne Bay. Your experienced local guide will narrate Miami's fascinating history, from its origins as a swampy outpost to its rise as the global city it has become today. With exclusive access to unique and colorful Stiltsville, you will also have the chance to encounter marine life such as wild dolphin and manatee, all against the backdrop of the magnificent Miami skyline. Explore insider locations including colorful Stiltsville, the Scarface mansion, Biscayne National Park, Star Island, and the vibrant Miami River among other unique locales.
What you get
About this experience
Experience Miami by water with an expert local guide on an authentic and immersive small group boat tour. Miami’s history comes alive exploring the city’s hidden gems, popular sights, marine life, and the iconic Stiltsville. This intimate, guided boat tour is perfect for up to six passengers. Departing from Miami Beach Marina in the heart of South Beach, our journey begins with a sweeping view of Miami from the clear blue waters of Biscayne Bay. Your experienced local guide will narrate Miami's fascinating history, from its origins as a swampy outpost to its rise as the global city it has become today. With exclusive access to unique and colorful Stiltsville, you will also have the chance to encounter marine life such as wild dolphin and manatee, all against the backdrop of the magnificent Miami skyline. Explore insider locations including colorful Stiltsville, the Scarface mansion, Biscayne National Park, Star Island, and the vibrant Miami River among other unique locales.
What's included
Included
- Historical and cultural sightseeing boat tour
- Bottled water
- All Fees and Taxes
Not included
- Captain's Gratuity Not Included
- Marina Parking Not Included
What you'll see and do
Miami
Explore areas of Miami including downtown, historic Miami River, Port Miami, Fisher Island, Venetian Islands and more.
Pass by without stopping
Miami Beach
Experience areas of Miami Beach including Venetian Islands, Star Island, Fisher Island, South Beach shoreline and more.
Pass by without stopping
You will experience more than 40 miles of Biscayne Bay visiting historical, cultural and popular locations including a chance to encounter marine life such as dolphin, manatee and more.
Pass by without stopping
Stiltsville
Experience the unique and colorful Stiltsville. Located within Biscayne National Park, (the largest underwater park in the US) these historic houses were built out over the water 1.5 miles from shore and seemingly "float" above the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay. Hear the history of these venerable structures from the bootlegging days of prohibition to use as locations for movie and fashion photo shoots.
Pass by without stopping
Miami Beach Marina
Scenic Departure: Begin your tour from Miami Beach Marina with breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and a chance to see dockside marine life and corals.
5 minutes here
Port of Miami
Port of Miami: Witness the bustling activity of massive Panamax cargo ships.
Pass by without stopping
Miami Riverwalk Trail
Historic Miami River: Explore the riverbanks once home to Native Americans, now lined with towering skyscrapers.
Pass by without stopping
Brickell Avenue Bridge
Brickell Avenue: Cruise by the famous shoreline featured in numerous TV shows and movies.
Pass by without stopping
Biscayne National Park
Biscayne Bay National Park: Spot native marine life including wild dolphins, manatees, and sea birds.
10 minutes here
Cape Florida Lighthouse
Cape Florida Lighthouse: View the oldest structure in Miami and learn about its storied history.
5 minutes here
Key Biscayne
Key Biscayne: See stunning private homes and the iconic house from Scarface.
5 minutes here
Fisher Island
Celebrity Mansions: Glide past luxurious homes on Star Island and hear stories of the Vanderbilts on Fisher Island.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Miami
Check in at our boat located on Dock E. As you walk through entrance gates, first boat on the left on the lower dock.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Check in at our boat located on Dock E. As you walk through entrance gates, first boat on the left on the lower dock.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Ocean Force Adventures
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We do not recommend this tour for infants.
- The Stiltsville area is weather dependent and not accessible during small craft advisories. For safety purposes, be advised the captain may alter the route during instances of heavy wind conditions.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 73 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
73 verified traveler reviews for Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great and would do it again
Our Guide was wonderful, funny but not annoying. Knowledgeable to the right degree, drove fast and safe, but took his time when needed. We felt very comfortable, enjoyed the total time we were on the boat and would do it again! Make sure to wear proper clothing so you don't get burnt and can fully focus on your tour:)
via Tripadvisor
Amazing trip out to Sandspur Island (Racoon Island) with Captain Loius
We took a private tour out to Raccoon Island with Captain Louis and my family of 4. We had an amazing time out on the island, but just as much of an awesome time on the way to and from the island as well. Captain Louis pointed out landmark areas and wildlife as we approached it as well, and he kept us entertained. He was very prompt with pickup and gave us adequate time to explore the island, along with tips about which spots are best the find the raccoons. He was spot on about the raccoons, as we found them and got to spend the majority of our time on the island with them. At the end-ish of the tour he has a few minutes to spare and even offered to take us a little bit further out to see the Cruise ships docked, which thrilled my kids. Highly recommend!!!!!!
via Tripadvisor
Absolutely Amazing Raccoon Experience!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **🦝❤️** My husband and I visited Miami Raccoon Island today as part of our honeymoon, and it was truly unforgettable! Captain Louis was fantastic — incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and so much fun. He made the entire adventure even better and clearly knows the island and its raccoon residents so well. We saw **so many raccoons** and got to experience them up close in such a unique way. They came right up to us, brought their babies us around, and even drank water from the water we brought for them! We explored the island and got to watch these amazing animals up close in their natural environment. It was truly remarkable. This was so much more than just a boat trip — it was such a fun, unique adventure and an experience we’ll be talking about for years to come. If you're considering visiting Raccoon Island, **DO IT!** And if you can, request Captain Louis. He was absolutely wonderful! **Highly, highly recommend! 🦝🌴❤️**
via Tripadvisor
Great fun with great history!
Our speed boat trip to Stiltsville and Key Biscayne was wonderful! It started off with a brief spot shower but then the sun came out for the far majority of our trip. Collin, our captain, was great! He was friendly, smile-y, knowledgeable. We started off at Starr Island and then Fisher Island. He told stories of the rich and famous and pointed out their homes. Then we enjoyed a speedy trip to Stiltsville where we learned the history of the homes there and the unfortunate dwindle down to 6 homes. We enjoyed the scenery and beauty of Key Biscayne. We highly recommend this fun tour!
via Tripadvisor
Small RIB boat trip with Captain Colin
A superb way to see Miami and the coastline from the sea. Our captain, Colin, was very informative and entertaining
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 26
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 74
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Miami.
How much does Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville cost?
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Prices start at $187 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Miami usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Miami is not rushed.
Is Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 73 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Miami, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville?
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Around 26 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Miami can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Miami and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Miami within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Miami?
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Miami splits between the water and the neighbourhoods. Biscayne Bay boat tours, Key Biscayne snorkelling and Everglades airboats cover the first, while Wynwood mural walks, Little Havana food crawls and South Beach deco tours cover the second. We rank Everglades operators carefully: many depart from Miami but the good ones run their own boats rather than reselling seats. On Outty we rank every Miami experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include 2-Hour Miami Private Boat Tour: Skyline & Star Island, The Official Art Deco Walking Tour by The Miami Design Preservation League, Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Miami?
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November to April, dry season, before hurricane and humidity months. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Miami?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville?
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Included: Historical and cultural sightseeing boat tour; Bottled water; and All Fees and Taxes. Not included: Captain's Gratuity Not Included; and Marina Parking Not Included. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville?
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Check in at our boat located on Dock E. As you walk through entrance gates, first boat on the left on the lower dock. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; We do not recommend this tour for infants; and The Stiltsville area is weather dependent and not accessible during small craft advisories. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville?
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Across 73 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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