Miami in 1 Day for Couples - Private, captain‑led boat charter from Coconut Grove Marina
In Collaboration with boatmiamiboat. Updated on February 2, 2026.
A private, intimate 2‑hour boat cruise from Coconut Grove through Biscayne Bay — champagne, skyline views, celebrity mansions and a sunset anchorage near Key Biscayne with an experienced local captain.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with boatmiamiboat, inspired by the tour Private Boat Ride in Miami with Experienced Captain and Champagne. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Private, captain‑led boat charter from Coconut Grove Marina
- Cruise past Millionaire's Row (Star Island) & Fisher Island
- Brickell skyline & Biscayne Bay golden‑hour anchorage with champagne
Itinerary
Day 1
Evening private cruise optimized for golden hour and intimate moments. Please arrive 25 minutes before scheduled departure for check‑in.
Arrival & check‑in at Coconut Grove Marina
Meet your captain at the marina to confirm paperwork, pay the required captain/fuel fee (cash or agreed method), and stow bags. Aim to arrive 25 minutes before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 25 minutes early — the captain will usually text the final pickup slip/location; phone signal works best near the marina.
- Parking: use the pay‑by‑phone apps shown on local signs (meters fill up quickly); consider an Uber/Lyft to avoid parking stress.
- Bring a light sweater — bay breezes after sunset get chilly even in March; small blankets are romantic and practical.
Boarding & safety briefing
Short welcome from the captain, safety briefing and settling in. Champagne chilled and ice provided on board.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the captain for a recommended photo angle for couples — they know when the skyline light is best.
- Store valuables in a small dry bag; captains typically keep a safe spot for phones and keys.
- If you prefer softer music, tell the captain — playlists can be adjusted to create a cozy atmosphere.
Cruise past Star Island (Millionaire's Row)
Glide along Millionaire's Row to admire celebrity mansions and dramatic waterfront architecture — excellent photo opportunity as the light softens.
Tips from local experts:
- Best photos: sit on the port side as you pass Star Island for unobstructed mansion views at golden hour.
- Keep voices low and enjoy the quiet — the private vibe makes this section feel cinematic.
- If you want close‑up shots, ask the captain to coast slowly (they can usually do a quieter pass).
Fisher Island viewpoint
Short cruise by exclusive Fisher Island — admire the private island setting and lush shoreline.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a quieter stretch — a nice moment to share a toast while taking in the island’s greenery.
- Use portrait mode on your phone for romantic close‑ups with the island as a soft background.
- Respect privacy: avoid using long‑range lenses pointed at private residences.
Explore Brickell & the financial district from the water
Cruise along the Brickell canals and approach the dramatic glass towers — a modern skyline backdrop as the sun begins to set.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the bow (carefully) for sweeping skyline shots with warm evening light reflecting on the towers.
- If you want a quieter corner, the captain can slow near the canals for skyline photos without heading into busy shipping lanes.
- Order a second bottle or a favorite mixer before you board (BYOB is allowed) — Brickell views pair well with a chilled cocktail.
Transit Rickenbacker Causeway toward Key Biscayne
Cruise out past the causeway heading toward Key Biscayne — open water and wide bay views set the mood for sunset.
Tips from local experts:
- Point your camera westward during this stretch to capture the approaching golden hour over the bay.
- If you or your partner get cold, the bimini top provides shelter — ask the captain to lower it for a cozier feel.
- Keep water and small snacks handy on deck; the captain provides ice and bottled water but personal favorites make it special.
Anchorage near Key Biscayne — champagne & sunset 'special moment'
Captain anchors at a calm sandbar/anchorage near Key Biscayne. Enjoy chilled champagne, relax on the floating mat or deck, and watch the sunset together.
Tips from local experts:
- This is the planned romantic 'special moment' — request a slow, unobtrusive playlist and the captain will set the mood.
- Bring a small picnic or dessert to enjoy while anchored — BYOB and snacks are welcome (no open flames).
- For comfortable seating, bring a lightweight shawl or cushion; couples photos against the sunset make a lovely keepsake.
Return cruise with skyline photography as lights come on
Leisurely cruise back toward Coconut Grove along the Biscayne Bay skyline — great time for dusk photos and final toasts.
Tips from local experts:
- Golden hour transitions to blue hour here — try long‑exposure skyline shots if you have a small tripod.
- Ask the captain for a slightly slower return to enjoy the city lights and capture reflections on the water.
- Tipping the captain is customary for exceptional service — plan a gratuity (10–20%) if you enjoyed the experience.
Disembark & farewell at Coconut Grove Marina
Return to the marina, disembark and say goodbye to your captain. Allow a few minutes to gather belongings and collect photos if the captain took any.
Tips from local experts:
- Take a few last photos on the dock — the evening light at the marina is often very flattering.
- If you parked, have your parking app/payment handy; if using ride‑hail, request your car while the boat is approaching.
- Confirm any photos or short video clips the captain took and ask for the best way to receive them (many captains will share via text or app).
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Experience, Attraction, Outdoor, Break |
