Best Boat Trips in Florida: A Complete Guide

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Written By Carlos Braga

Florida, known as the Sunshine State, is famous for its beautiful beaches and countless idyllic boating destinations. Sailing the calm, endless waters of Florida is definitely one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of this state. Whether you're drawn to the pristine beaches of Miami, scenic Disney's Bay Lake in Orlando, or the peaceful islands of Key West, Florida offers unparalleled boating experiences that appeal to everyone, from families to anglers and life buffs. wild. Furthermore, the boat tour options in Florida are not limited to beaches and cities, but also extend to its innovative theme parks, providing unique experiences with a touch of Disney magic.

Popular Boating Destinations in Florida

Florida, located in the southeast of the United States, is a unique tourist destination with its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities and world-renowned theme parks, without forgetting the immense biodiversity of its fauna and flora. Among everything that the Sunshine State has to offer, one aspect that tends to attract many tourists is boat tours. Whether it's spotting marine animals, fishing, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze, it seems like there's something for everyone in Florida. Here are some of the most popular boating destinations in Florida.

An icon of the Sunshine State, Miami is the first stop for any boat enthusiast. Known for its lively nightlife and white sand beaches, Miami is the perfect place for a boat trip. Sail across Biscayne Bay or take a private tour to watch the sun set over the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.

Near Miami, the Everglades are another must-see destination for those seeking adventure. This swampy area is home to a surprising array of wildlife, including the feared American alligator. An aerial boat tour is a great way to explore this unique landscape and maximize your chances of seeing these creatures up close.

Next stop is Key West, the southernmost point in the United States, just 90 miles from Cuba. Here, you can enjoy a boat trip on the coral reef, where you can dive and explore the marine life to its fullest. You can also take a sunset boat trip to enjoy the stunning seascape as the sun sets below the horizon.

Finally, Orlando, home to the world-famous Disney World, also has its nautical charms. Although it is known for its theme parks, the region has some of the best boating lakes in Florida. Opt for a leisurely ride across Lake Eola or a thrilling jet ride across Lake Tohopekaliga, there's something for everyone in Orlando.

Each of these destinations can provide a unique boating experience that will certainly remain in the memory of anyone looking for the perfect experience in Florida. After all, there's no better way to experience the energy and beauty of this state than by boat, with the ocean breeze on your face and maybe even a dolphin leaping in the distance.

Photo from a boat trip in Florida, showing a boat sailing through turquoise waters and an idyllic beach in the background

Types of Boat Tours in Florida

The state of Florida is known for its magnificent beaches, incredible theme parks and of course, a favorable sunny climate throughout the year. However, one of its least kept secrets is the boat tours that overshadow even its most popular attractions. From the moment you board, prepare to be enchanted by beautiful panoramas, exciting adventures and the rich marine biodiversity that makes Florida one of the best boating destinations.

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After marveling at boat tours on Miami's Biscayne Bay, exploring the Everglades on an airboat, and diving in the crystal-clear waters of Key West's coral reef, there's no shortage of options to continue your Florida adventure. Without forgetting Orlando, known for its wonderful park attractions and picturesque lakes perfect for boat trips, guaranteeing incredible experiences.

Fishing Boat Tours in Destin

The city of Destin is recognized as the “Fishing Headquarters of the World,” with a community of passionate anglers ready to take visitors to stunning Gulf of Mexico sunsets and unbeatable fishing adventures. There are several types of fishing boat charters available, from deep sea fishing, to coastal fishing and freshwater fishing.

Themed Dinner Cruises in Fort Lauderdale

In addition to regular boat tours, Fort Lauderdale offers themed cruises and intracoastal dining experiences that provide unforgettable memories. Imagine watching the sun set over the tranquil waters of Florida's east coast while enjoying a 5-star meal, beautiful setting and live music.

Eco Tours in Tampa Bay

For nature lovers, Tampa Bay offers boat tours dedicated to exploring the state's wild, natural landscape. Ecotours offer tourists the opportunity to learn about Florida's marine biodiversity and precious ecosystem.

Dulcimer Tours from Destin

For those looking for a unique and adventurous way to take to the water, Destin offers tours aboard a dulcimer. These flat-deck vessels are known for their smooth handling, making them perfect for gliding through Florida's beautiful bays and waterways.

Conclusion

Each boat tour in Florida brings its own flavor and charm, depending on the location, the type of vessel and the route. Some boat tours can take you through alligator-infested waters, while others can take you to watch playful dolphins. Regardless of your choice, a boat trip in Florida is an unforgettable experience, with an ocean breeze, blue waters and white sand beaches all around.

Image of a tourist boat sailing in crystal blue waters with a beautiful view of the Florida coast

Tips for making the most of boat trips in Florida

Moving on, let's address other great opportunities to enjoy boating in Florida.

Surrounding Tampa Bay: Nothing like the opportunity to appreciate the diverse fauna and flora of the Sunshine State on an ecological boat tour. Departing from the city of Tampa, you can experience first-hand manatees, dolphins, and a variety of native birds. Plus, the panoramic view of the city skyline at twilight is something you won't want to miss!

Fort Lauderdale and its themed dinner cruises: Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is ideal for an elegant night-long experience. Enjoy a splendid meal while strolling along the countless canals, under the twinkling stars.

Destin and Fishing and Dulcimer Boat Tours: Destin is famous for its emerald waters and for being 'the luckiest place to fish in the world.' Here, sports enthusiasts will enjoy unforgettable fishing adventures. For something calmer, how about a Dulcimer ride? This is a traditional backwater boat, perfect for experiencing the tranquility of Florida waters at a slower pace.

The islands of Sanibel and Captiva: These two gems are famous for their shells and peaceful surroundings. To make the most of your boat trip to these islands, we recommend a shell collecting expedition at dawn.

Last but certainly not least, we enter the enchanted world of Disney. Based in the heart of Orlando, there are a number of magical experiences waiting on Disney boat tours: see what it's like to have a nighttime encounter with fireworks at Seven Seas Lagoon or sail the rivers at Winderness Park. For little adventurers, the Pirate Cruise is a true dream come true.

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Florida boat tours are more than just an add-on to a visit to the state. With vibrant landscapes, a variety of wildlife to see and a multitude of different experiences to choose from, every trip is unique. So why not pack the sunscreen, grab the camera and get ready for the adventure that awaits in Florida's waters? It is certainly an experience that will remain in your memory!

Image of a boat trip in Florida with vibrant scenery and abundant wildlife.

Disney-inspired boat tours in Florida

If you're already excited about the wonderful experiences Florida has to offer, hold on to your captain's hat because there's so much more! And if you're someone who loves all things Disney (who isn't, right?), Florida has incredible boating waiting for you.

Orlando, for example, is a city known for being home to the “Happiest Place on Earth” – yes, the Walt Disney World Resort. But did you know that you can have a magical experience even outside the park? Well, welcome to Disney-themed boat tours in Florida!

Witness Walt Disney World’s dazzling fireworks displays from the water with the “Fireworks Cruise.” The Bon Voyage and Grand Yacht 1 ferries take visitors around the Seven Seas Lagoon, providing incredible views of the Magic Kingdom. Imagine seeing those brilliant colors reflecting in the water… Magical, isn't it?

For adventurers out there, it’s worth checking out “Pirate Adventure Cruises”. This is a two-hour adventure aboard a pirate vessel, where children aged 4 to 12 can follow clues and go in search of treasure. Who wouldn't want to be a Disney pirate for a day?

And for those who want something more peaceful and natural, there is “Fort Wilderness Canoe Rental”. It's a unique experience to sail the rivers of Wilderness Park, where you can admire Florida's natural landscape as you paddle. It's an amazing way to relax after a busy day at the theme parks.

Along Florida's west coast, Sanibel and Captiva Islands are famous for their shell-strewn beaches. Why not join a shell collecting tour? It's a great way to discover local marine biodiversity and maybe even bring home a new lucky charm!

Exploring Florida this way, with the warm sun hitting your skin and the ocean breeze blowing your face, offers a new perspective on the “Sunshine State.” Each tour brings a new adventure, a new setting, new discoveries and, of course, new stories to tell. So when it comes to boating in Florida, there is one thing that is guaranteed: it will never be an “ordinary” experience.

Image from a boat trip in Florida, showing crystal clear waters and stunning scenery.

And interestingly, Disney-inspired boat tours in Florida add an extra dose of excitement and fun to the sea journey. Trips like the Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom or the classic Disney Ferry that crosses the waters of Seven Seas Bay provide an unforgettable experience that combines the magic of Disney with the pleasure of sailing. To make the most of these tours, planning and preparation in advance are essential. Whether it's your love of fishing, a passion for blue waters, or the thrill of Disney cruises, there's a Florida boat tour that will perfectly capture your desire for adventure and fun.

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About the Author Carlos Braga:

Unparalleled experience in Orlando and Disney! As a former Universal Orlando team member and a passionate devotee of the magic of Disney, I have become a true Orlando travel expert. Before becoming a renowned travel consultant dedicated to Orlando, I had already made hundreds of visits to the parks, cultivating my knowledge and passion mainly over the last 7 years as a consultant and specialist in Disney travel.

My journey into this enchanted world began in 1995, when I took my first trip to Orlando. Since then, my love for Disney and the city has only grown. In 2023, we celebrate the sixth anniversary of 'Partiu Disney Parks', consolidating our role as one of the main sources of information about Disney and Orlando Parks.

During these six years of existence, we have continued to offer quality and updated content, being the reliable source for all those looking for essential information to plan their trip to Disney and Orlando. With my vast experience and passion for this magical destination, I am here to guide you every step of the way towards the most incredible Orlando and Disney experience!