Boat charter Miami: the complete guide to booking a private yacht
Everything to know before you book a private boat in Miami: types of yachts, real prices, the best routes, what is included and how to choose a company you can trust.
By the Boatyx team · Updated 19.10.2026
Miami is a city built for the water. The skyline, the islands and the sandbars look completely different from a deck, and a private charter is the best way to see them: your own yacht, your own captain, your own route, and no schedule but yours.
This guide covers what to know before you book: types of yachts, real prices, the best routes, what is included, and how to choose a company you can trust.
Why a private charter
A private charter is not a tour boat with fifty strangers. It is your group, your music and your pace. People charter in Miami for:
- Birthdays, bachelorette and bachelor parties
- Sunset cruises, anniversaries and proposals
- Client entertaining and corporate days
- Family days at the sandbars
- Longer trips to the islands of Biscayne National Park, or to Bimini
The difference is in the details: a spotless yacht, a captain who knows every sandbar, cold drinks on ice and a route built around what you want to see.
Which yacht
- Sport boats and day yachts (30–45 ft) — fast, open and social. Perfect for sandbars, swimming and smaller groups.
- Motor yachts (45–75 ft) — cabins, shade, a bathroom, a flybridge on many models and space to lounge. The classic Miami yacht day.
- Large yachts and superyachts (75 ft and up) — a full crew, several decks and water toys such as jet skis and Seabobs, for big celebrations and special occasions.
The right yacht depends on your group, your plans and your budget. A good company recommends the right fit instead of selling you the biggest boat. Every yacht has its own guest limit; the captain cannot go over it, and children count too.
What it costs
Price depends on the yacht, the duration and the date. Today our selection of 80+ yachts starts at $850 for two hours. Here is what four hours costs in each size class, live from our catalog:
| Yacht size | In our selection | Price today |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 40 ft | 6 yachts | from $1,350 · 4 hours |
| 41–55 ft | 17 yachts | from $2,100 · 4 hours |
| 56–75 ft | 24 yachts | from $2,400 · 4 hours |
| 76–100 ft | 12 yachts | from $4,000 · 4 hours |
| Over 100 ft | 14 yachts | from $5,500 · 4 hours |
Live prices from our catalog, including captain and fuel, before 7% Florida sales tax and gratuity.
For a full breakdown of what is included and what is extra, read our yacht charter price guide.
The best routes
- Star Island and the bay islands — cruise past the mansions of Star Island, Palm Island and Hibiscus Island.
- The sandbars — Haulover for energy and music, Nixon for a calmer swim with skyline views. See our guide to Miami’s sandbars.
- Fisher Island and Government Cut — island views on the way to the ocean inlet.
- Brickell and the Miami River — the towers from the water, or lunch at a riverside restaurant. See dock and dine.
- Sunset over the skyline — the most booked evening on the water. See our sunset cruise guide.
- Biscayne National Park — quiet islands to the south for longer charters. See Boca Chita and Elliott Key.
What is included
With us, every rate includes a licensed captain and fuel for the planned route, plus safety equipment for everyone on board. Most yachts also have a Bluetooth sound system, ice and water toys such as a floating mat; each yacht page lists what is on board. On most yachts you can bring your own food and drinks.
Florida sales tax (7%) and gratuity for the crew are added on top of the rate. We say so upfront, so the total is never a surprise.
How to book in five steps
1. Choose the date and count your guests. Weekends in season book up early.
2. Choose the yacht. Match it to your group and plans, not the other way round.
3. Plan the route. Party, sightseeing, sunset, sandbar or a mix — tell us what the day is for.
4. Confirm the details in writing. Total price, deposit, cancellation policy, marina and what is included.
5. Arrive 15 minutes early and enjoy it. Bring sunscreen, swimwear and your playlist. Here is our packing list.
How to choose a company you can trust
Look for real reviews on Google, a real local presence rather than just an Instagram page, clear prices, well-kept yachts, licensed captains and fast, clear answers. If a company is slow to reply before you pay, imagine after. We wrote more about this in why professionals matter. Our own guests have left 153 reviews on Google.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a boating license?
No. Every charter comes with a licensed captain, so you need no license or experience.
How many people can come?
It depends on the yacht: each has its own guest limit, shown on its page. For large groups we can suggest a bigger yacht or two yachts cruising together.
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
On most yachts, yes. Ask before bringing red wine or glass. Guests must be 21 or older to drink alcohol.
What if the weather turns?
The captain makes the final call for safety. If the captain cancels or cuts a charter short, you can reschedule or receive a refund for the time not used. Our cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the charter — see the cancellation policy.
How far ahead should we book?
Two to four weeks ahead for weekends and holidays in season; a few days is often enough on weekdays.
Ready to choose? Browse all yachts or tell our concierge your date, group and occasion.
