From Miami: Open-Top Bus Tour, Bay Cruise, & Everglades Adventure

Enjoy a comprehensive day of sightseeing in Miami, USA with this full-day adventure that combines three exciting tours into one seamless experience. Priced at $99 per person, this package offers an airboat tour at Everglades Holiday Park, a boat cruise along Miami’s coastline, and a scenic open-top bus tour through the city. The entire journey lasts approximately 4 to 8 hours, making it ideal for visitors eager to maximize their time and see a variety of highlights without the hassle of booking separate tickets.

This tour receives a strong 4.5-star rating out of 5 from 93 reviews, with many appreciating the value for money, the knowledgeable guides, and the diversity of sights. One of the key strengths is the ability to experience nature, cityscapes, and coastal beauty all in a single day, making it particularly suitable for those who want a broad overview of Miami’s most iconic attractions.

However, some reviews highlight that the timing of the boat cruise can be restrictive, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or have a flight. The tour is most enjoyable for those who are comfortable with a packed itinerary and are prepared for the approximate 4-8 hour duration.

Key Points

• Three tours in one day: combines an Everglades airboat adventure, coastal boat cruise, and scenic city bus tour.
• Affordable price: at $99 per person, offering great value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Flexible schedule options: multiple departure times from Miami Beach and Downtown Miami.
• Wildlife and nature: airboat tour at Everglades Holiday Park includes a wildlife show and chances to see gators in their natural environment.
• City highlights from water and land: enjoy views of Miami skyline, Fisher Island, Millionaire’s Row, and the Port of Miami.
• Group size: accommodates up to 400 travelers, making it a lively and social experience.

The Full-Day Itinerary: From the Everglades to Downtown Miami

The day begins at Everglades Holiday Park, with departures at 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 2:00 PM, and 2:30 PM. The airboat tour lasts approximately 45-60 minutes and takes place in the heart of the Everglades, where you see wildlife and enjoy a wildlife show. This stop is the most praised part of the trip, especially for its natural scenery and the chance to spot alligators in their habitat.

Next, the Miami on the Water cruise departs from Bayside Marketplace at 11:00 AM and lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes. This boat tour showcases Miami’s coast, including Fisher Island, Miami Beach, Millionaire’s Row, and the Port of Miami. The views of luxury homes and the city skyline make this a highlight for many visitors.

The Big Bus Tours Miami segment is a scenic, open-top bus tour that departs every 30 minutes from 10:00 AM. It covers Miami’s key neighborhoods and landmarks in approximately 90 minutes. While this part is not a hop-on, hop-off experience, it offers a smooth way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about Miami’s neighborhoods.

Logistics and Meeting Points

The tour departs from two main locations: Soundscape Park in Miami Beach and Bayside Marketplace in Downtown Miami. The Everglades tour departs at specific times from each location, with Soundscape Park leaving at 8:30 AM and 2:00 PM, and Bayside Marketplace at 9:05 AM and 2:35 PM. The coastal cruise and bus tour both start at Bayside Marketplace, which is conveniently near public transportation.

It is recommended to start with the Everglades tour because of its earlier departure times, then proceed to the cruise and bus tour afterward. The total tour duration is approximately 4 hours, but can extend to 8 hours if you opt for additional time or delay between activities.

Wildlife and Nature in the Everglades

The Everglades airboat experience is the most appreciated part of this package. Guides provide informative commentary, often mentioning local wildlife and ecosystems. The wildlife show features alligators and other animals, giving a closer look at the region’s fauna. Many reviews mention the opportunity to see alligators in their natural habitat as a highlight, with captain Tina and other guides praised for their fun and knowledgeable approach.

The Everglades stop is consistently praised for its natural scenery and the chance to observe wildlife up close. The airboat ride is quick but packed with sights and sounds of the wilderness, making it a memorable experience for nature lovers.

Coastal Cruise: Miami’s Landmarks from the Water

The Bay Cruise offers viewers a chance to see Miami’s skyline, Fisher Island, and Millionaire’s Row. The homes of the wealthy along the coast are a major draw, providing a glimpse into Miami’s luxurious lifestyle. The cruise departs from Bayside Marketplace, allowing easy access for those staying in or near downtown Miami.

The admission cost is included in the package, and the 1 hour 30 minutes cruise is regularly described as relaxing and scenic. Many reviews highlight the beautiful views and the informative narration about Miami’s coast and neighborhoods.

Miami City Tour from the Open-Top Bus

The Big Bus open-top tour is a convenient way to explore Miami’s neighborhoods and historic sites. Departing every 30 minutes, it takes about 90 minutes to complete the route. While it is not a hop-on, hop-off experience, it provides a panoramic overview of Miami Beach, the Port of Miami, and famous areas like Ocean Drive.

The guide’s commentary and the open-air experience make it particularly enjoyable. The tour is best suited for those who want a quick, scenic overview of the city rather than multiple stops.

Practicalities and Recommendations

The entire experience is designed to be group-friendly, accommodating up to 400 travelers at once. The tour includes free cancellation if booked at least 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility to the plans.

Since the timing of activities can be tight, especially if you’re catching a flight, it’s advisable to schedule the first activity early in the day. Many reviews mention that the boat cruise timing can be restrictive, and some travelers have experienced missed flights due to the schedule. Planning ahead and allowing buffer time is recommended.

Participants are advised to check the latest health and safety measures via the provider’s website or app, especially since the bus tour is not a hop-on, hop-off experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Package Most

This full-day Miami experience is perfect for first-timers who want a broad overview of the city, its coast, and the Everglades. Nature lovers will especially appreciate the airboat ride and wildlife show. The affordable price makes it a good value for families or groups looking to see a lot without multiple bookings.

However, those with tight schedules or sensitive to timing should be aware of the fixed departure times, especially for the bay cruise. The bus tour may feel rushed for some, but it’s a quick way to see Miami’s neighborhoods.

What is the price of this tour?
The entire experience costs $99 per person, which includes all three activities.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration ranges from about 4 to 8 hours, depending on schedule and pacing.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Soundscape Park in Miami Beach and Bayside Marketplace in Downtown Miami.

What activities are included?
The package includes an airboat tour at Everglades Holiday Park, a coastal boat cruise, and a scenic open-top bus tour of Miami.

Is the airboat ride in the Everglades suitable for everyone?
Yes, the airboat ride is an accessible outdoor activity in the heart of the Everglades, famous for wildlife sightings and boat rides lasting around 45-60 minutes.

Can I cancel this tour for a refund?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, the activities are generally suitable for most family-friendly travelers.

How good are the guides?
Guides during the Everglades airboat tour are praised for being knowledgeable and engaging. The wildlife show is also well-received for its informative and fun presentation.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
No, the tour is set with fixed departure times and durations, but the schedule can be flexible if booked with advance notice.

What should I bring for the tour?
It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and water for outdoor activities.

This from Miami package offers a balanced mix of nature, water views, and city sights, making it a practical choice for those wanting a memorable and economical way to explore Miami’s diverse attractions.