The Miami area is home to the largest port in the United States, Port Everglades, which might be part of the reason why boating here is a way of life and even those who don’t own boats go for a yacht charter to experience Miami offshore. The beach and sunshine are part of South Floridians every day routine – walking, running, dining, sightseeing. Everything in South Florida happens with the ocean in the background.
As a result of this beach lifestyle, there is no shortage of places to cruise and we’ve compiled the best of the best to kickstart your Miami yacht charter vacation. There are so many places to cruise, we’ve only scratched the surface. Your Miami boating vacation starts in 3…2…1.
Biscayne National Park has four county marinas available for boaters. There are several popular boating spots that we think are worth checking out. Pro tip: don’t forget your camera. The views from the islands of Biscayne National Park are something you will definitely want to remember (and brag about to your friends later).
Boca Chita is the park’s most popular island and has a variety of facilities for visitors. It is most recognizable by the 65-foot lighthouse, which is open during select hours. If you get the chance the observation deck offers 360 degree views of nothing by blue ocean and the Miami skyline in the distance.
When visiting Boca Chita keep in mind that it is always mosquito season. Also, pets are not permitted on the island or on the boats just offshore. The harbor has a cleated bulkhead where boats can dock and the overnight docking fee is $25.
Elliott Key is the largest island in Biscayne National Park, offering visitors camping, swimming, hiking and boating opportunities. You can dock your boat at one of 36 slips. The overnight docking fee is $25 after 6 p.m. and gets you use of the tenting area (for up to six people). Unlike Boca Chita, pets are permitted on Elliott Key but should not be left unattended.
Miami Beach is the very southern tip of South Beach. The vibe cannot be explained. It has to be experienced. South Beach is a worldwide destination for those at the top of their industries – actors, musicians, artists, politicians and writers. The colorful streets are home to photo shoots, movie scenes, music videos and homes of the rich and famous. On a trip to Miami Beach you are sure to see vintage cars, beautiful people (perhaps even some celebrities) and sizzlin’ night clubs.
The McArthur Causeway will take you right into downtown South Beach by car, but arriving by water in this boaters paradise is just as easy. Miami Beach Marina on Alton Road and Sunset Harbor Marina on Purdy Ave are popular choices in the heart of the downtown area. There are dockage options for your yacht charter across from the Fontainebleau and Eden Roc, and on Fisher Island but they are more limited in availability – so be sure to make a reservation.
The Florida Keys were made for boating. Key Largo has a more relaxed vibe and Key West is buzzin’ (if you catch our drift… wink, wink). The locals will tell you that the Florida Keys don’t have great beaches, and we might agree with them. But you don’t need a great beach to be a top yacht charter destination. In fact, the best part of a yacht charter is the first-class accommodations.
While perhaps not known for wide and beautiful beaches, the Florida Keys are known for some great fishing. And fishing is something you can do directly from the deck of your yacht charter. Your captain knows the scene and can help you identify the best spots to catch dinner. If you are lucky and your afternoon fishing gig goes well, you’ll be eating fresh fish for dinner (and maybe even lunch the following day). Not too shabby, eh?
Boatsetter is a boat sharing company with a mission to connect those who need a boat with those who rent their boats. Miami is the ideal location for a yacht charter and we’ve got quite the selection. Browse and reserve a yacht charter completely online. When you make a reservation with Boatsetter you never pay any cancellation fees as long as cancel the reservation within 24 hours of the departure date. You can even add a captain for a completely hassle-free boating experience. You’ll be on your way to a luxurious yacht charter in no time.