Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure plus Miami Biscayne Bay Cruise

Exciting Combo Tour of Florida Everglades and Miami’s Biscayne Bay for $89

This 6-hour 30-minute guided experience offers a practical way to explore two of Miami’s top attractions in one day. Starting with a 30-minute narrated airboat ride through the Florida Everglades, the tour emphasizes spotting wildlife like alligators, turtles, and wading birds in their natural habitat. Afterward, visitors enjoy an alligator show and jungle trail walk at Everglades National Park, then conclude with a 90-minute Biscayne Bay cruise around Miami’s coastline, Fisher Island, and Star Island.

The tour is operated by Gray Line Miami, with a mobile ticket system priced at $89 per person. While the experience suits most ages, some reviews highlight logistical issues, such as unclear pick-up points and occasional miscommunications. This makes it a good option for those seeking a full day of outdoor adventure and city sightseeing, though travelers should be prepared for some variability in organization.

Key Points

• Cost-effective at $89, combining wildlife adventure and city sightseeing
• Total duration: approximately 6 hours 30 minutes, including transportation
• Includes a 30-minute airboat ride and 90-minute Biscayne Bay cruise
• Wildlife highlights include alligators, turtles, and native bird species
• Tour operates with Gray Line Miami, with flexible meeting options
• Some reviews mention organizational hiccups and communication issues

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Miami

The tour departs from Bayside Marketplace (401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132) at 10:00 am. Pick-up options are available from most Miami Beach and Downtown Miami hotels, making this tour convenient for visitors staying in central locations. The meeting point is well marked, but some reviews note the importance of confirming exact pick-up details with the local operator at least 24 hours in advance.

The tour is designed to serve a maximum of 60 travelers, with most participants able to join without physical difficulty. It is suitable for children as young as 2 years old, with the child sitting on a parent’s lap since there are no seat belts.

The Everglades Airboat Ride: A Key Adventure

The 30-minute narrated airboat ride is the highlight for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Led by an experienced captain, the boat skims across the grassy waters of the Everglades, offering a close-up view of alligators, fish, turtles, and wading birds. The guides are known for their friendly, informative narration, making it an engaging experience for all ages.

Some reviews praise the well-organized nature of this part of the tour, with guides sharing fun facts about the ecosystem. Be aware that wildlife sightings can vary—some reports mention seeing multiple gators, while others note fewer animals than expected. Still, the unique environment and airboat experience make this a memorable highlight.

Visiting Everglades National Park and Crocodile Exhibits

After the airboat, the tour continues at Everglades National Park, where visitors enjoy a jungle trail walk with exhibits on crocodiles and other wildlife. A wildlife show featuring alligators adds excitement, providing insight into these creatures’ behavior and habitat.

Some reviews mention the chaotic nature of the park visit, with unclear signage and mumbled directions from staff. Despite these logistical issues, the opportunity to observe alligators in a controlled environment and explore a nature-filled trail remains a core part of the experience.

Biscayne Bay Cruise: City Views and Marine Life

The afternoon segment involves a 1.5-hour narrated cruise along Biscayne Bay. The vessel offers both enclosed, air-conditioned cabins and outdoor decks, giving visitors options to enjoy the picturesque views comfortably.

Onboard commentary highlights landmarks such as Fisher Island, Miami Beach, and the homes of the wealthy on Millionaire’s Row. The cruise also passes the Port of Miami, showcasing the bustling shipping activity and cruise ships docked there. Travelers often report stunning skyline views and the chance to spot marine life like dolphins, manatees, and manta rays in the clear waters.

Some reviews mention that food and drinks—including soft drinks, beer, wine, and snacks—are available for purchase onboard, making it easy to relax while taking in the scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown of the Tour Stops

The tour begins at Bayside Marketplace, where travelers meet around 10:00 am. From there, a guided bus takes visitors first to Everglades Holiday Park for the airboat adventure. This segment lasts about 30 minutes, but some reviews highlight issues with timing and organizational clarity at the pickup point.

Following the airboat, the group spends about 1.5 hours at Everglades National Park, enjoying the alligators, wildlife show, and jungle trail. The park visit offers a chance to see crocodile exhibits and learn about the ecosystem, although some reviews note disorganization and difficulty navigating the signage.

The final part of the day is the Biscayne Bay cruise, lasting approximately 1.5 hours. The cruise includes views of Miami’s skyline, Fisher Island, and the homes of millionaires, with onboard commentary available in multiple languages.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Additional Fees

The tour costs $89 per person and includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges. It features full transportation to the stops, making it a convenient option, but food and drinks are not included—these are available for purchase during the Bay cruise.

Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Since the tour depends on good weather, poor weather conditions may lead to cancellations, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

What Reviewers Say About This Tour

Overall ratings are 3.6 out of 5, based on 356 reviews. Many praise the airboat ride and alligator show for their entertainment and educational value. The Miami skyline cruise is often appreciated for its scenic views and relaxed pace.

However, some reviewers point out organizational issues, such as confusing pickup points, poor communication, and long waits, especially for the second activity. A few mention missed parts of the cruise due to delays or misdirection, so travelers should remain attentive and confirm details beforehand.

Suitability for Different Types of Travelers

This tour works well for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and city sightseeing fans who want a comprehensive half-day experience. It is especially suitable for those interested in wildlife, nature, and scenic boat rides at an affordable price.

Participants should be comfortable with outdoor activities and some walking. It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a luxury experience or those who prefer precise organization, given some reviews about confusion and delays.

Final Thoughts: A Varied but Sometimes Chaotic Experience

The Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure plus Miami Biscayne Bay Cruise offers a diverse look at Florida’s wilderness and urban landscapes in one accessible package. For $89, it provides a good value for combining wildlife sightings, educational shows, and iconic Miami views.

While the airboat ride and cruise are generally well-received, logistical hiccups and communication issues at some stops should be considered. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy adventure and scenic boat rides, and are comfortable with some unpredictability in the schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from most Miami Beach and Downtown Miami hotels, with details to confirm directly with the local operator.

How long is the airboat ride?
The airboat ride lasts about 30 minutes, guided by an experienced captain who narrates along the way.

Can I explore the Everglades after the airboat?
Yes, after the ride, you have time to visit Everglades National Park, watch an alligator show, and walk a jungle trail with exhibits.

What landmarks are visible on the Biscayne Bay cruise?
The cruise showcases the Miami skyline, Fisher Island, Miami Beach, and Millionaire’s Row, along with views of the Port of Miami.

Are food and drinks available during the cruise?
Yes, soft drinks, beer, wine, cocktails, and snacks are available for purchase onboard.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.