Top Miami Sunset Cruises

There are lots of options for enjoying a sunset cruise in Miami. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best experiences available right now:

• Miami Sunset and City Lights Cocktail Cruise
• Miami Catamaran Sunset Cruise with Open Bar, Appetizers & Live DJ
• Miami Private Sunset Cruise by The Cleat with Champagne
• Miami Sunset and Skyline Cruise
• 2-Hour Miami Private Boat Tour with Cooler, Ice, Bluetooth Stereo

Yes, Miami sunset cruises are definitely worth it. You’ll get to watch the sun sink below the horizon as the Miami skyline comes to life. And, depending on which tour you select, you could end the day with a sunset toast from an open bar, a dance party with a DJ, or a quiet night out with a private charter on Biscayne Bay.

Miami sunset cruises vary in price but start at around US$30 for a 1.5-hour ride. Expect to pay more for cruises that include add-ons such as alcohol or a live DJ. You should expect to pay upwards of US$250 for a private sunset charter, but depending on how many people are in your party, it could offer great value and a chance to escape the crowds.

Miami sunset cruise prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• 2-Hour Miami Private Boat Tour with Cooler, Ice, Bluetooth Stereo
• Miami Sunset and City Lights Cocktail Cruise
• Private Sunset Boat Cruise in Miami with Champagne by “The Cleat”
• 2-Hour South Beach Private Pontoon Boat with Captain at Sunrise or Sunset

It depends. The best Miami sunset cruises for couples may be the ones that offer a more personal, intimate experience—think: sunset sails with Champagne toasts. Groups may want to look for sunset cruises that come with live music, an open bar, or other entertainment options, while families may instead want something a bit more lively, with less of a party atmosphere. (Private charters can also be excellent value for money for families and groups in Miami, though.)

The majority of Miami sunset cruises depart from Bayside Marketplace in downtown Miami or Miami Beach Marina in South Beach. As most cruises don’t offer round-trip transportation, make sure you pick the most convenient departure point for you based on your accommodation. You may well have to get there around 30 minutes prior to your cruise time.

Most Miami sunset cruises last 1.5–2 hours, which gives you enough time to watch the sunset, grab a drink, and enjoy views of the mansion-studded skyline without eating too far into your evening. However, if you opt for a private charter, you could spend the entire day on the water and catch the sunset before your ship heads back to the marina.

It depends when you’re visiting! As the sunset varies by season, departure times for sunset cruises will shift accordingly. Typically, you can expect your Miami sunset cruise to depart around golden hour (roughly an hour or 1.5 hours ahead of sunset). And if you want to catch daylight, sunset, and see Miami come to light after dark during your sunset cruise, make sure you book an experience that lasts around two hours.

Yes, absolutely. The coastline of Miami is littered with mansions (or former mansions) of the rich and famous, and you’ll definitely be able to see plenty of them on a sunset cruise. As most cruises head across Biscayne Bay to see the downtown skyline, you can expect to pass by the Venetian Islands, South Beach, and Millionaire’s Row on your evening excursion. However, if you want to learn more about the mansions, opt for a sunset cruise that comes complete with onboard narration.

Sunset cruises in Miami sometimes offer complimentary drinks, such as Champagne or cocktails, while others feature cash bars. When it comes to food, some include light snacks or apps, but sit-down meals are less common (unless you specifically book a sunset dinner cruise). Meanwhile, private charters will let you stock the cooler with whatever you want to eat and drink throughout the evening—but check the listing inclusions before booking to avoid disappointment.

Before booking a Miami sunset cruise, consider what type of experience you want; some trips offer a lively party atmosphere with music and drinks, while others have a relaxed sightseeing vibe. Check the details regarding age restrictions, as some cruises are geared to adults over 21. Finally, it’s best to book in advance as popular tours tend to sell out.

To make the most of a Miami sunset cruise, arrive early to secure a good seat for the best views. Dress for the evening breeze—light layers are ideal. Bring sunglasses and a camera to capture the skyline at golden hour, plus extra cash, as your boat crew will appreciate tips and you may need to pay for drinks at the cash bar.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions to take in Miami aside from sunset cruises. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Waterskiing and Jet Skiing
• Day Cruises
• Airboat Tours
• Snorkeling
• Bike Rentals