Itinerary · Biscayne Bay
Biscayne Bay Yacht Charter: A Full-Day Itinerary
From the mansions of Star Island to the quiet keys of Biscayne National Park, in one day on the water.
Biscayne Bay runs the length of Miami, and most charters only see the northern part of it. With a full day, you can follow the bay from the city's famous islands all the way south into Biscayne National Park, where the water turns clear and the skyline fades into the distance.
The route starts with Star Island and Fisher Island, reached through Government Cut, then follows Key Biscayne and its lighthouse to Stiltsville, the cluster of wooden houses built on stilts over the flats. The far point is Boca Chita Key, a small island known for its ornamental lighthouse, inside the national park.
This is a longer run than a typical sandbar day, so eight hours is the right length, and the captain will plan the route around wind, tide and the sea state on your date. Fuel for long runs is included on some yachts and charged on others; your quote makes it clear.
Stops along the bay
Star Island & Fisher Island
Cruise through Government Cut past the private island of Fisher Island and the waterfront estates of Star Island.
Key Biscayne
Follow the island's shoreline south toward Cape Florida and its historic lighthouse, with the open Atlantic on one side.
Stiltsville
A handful of wooden houses standing on stilts over the shallow flats south of Key Biscayne, one of Miami's most photographed sights.
Boca Chita Key
A small key in Biscayne National Park with a decorative lighthouse and clear water. The captain decides where to anchor on the day.
Swim stops
Calm, clear water in the southern bay is ideal for a swim and a long lunch on board between stops.
A sample 8-hour day
10:00
Board at Miami Beach Marina; breakfast pastries and coffee while the crew sets off.
10:20
Pass Star Island and run out through Government Cut alongside Fisher Island.
11:15
Cruise the Key Biscayne shoreline to Cape Florida.
12:00
Slow pass through Stiltsville for photographs.
13:30
Anchor near Boca Chita Key for lunch on board and a long swim.
16:00
Head north up the bay and return to the marina by 18:00.
Yachts for a full day on the bay
Comfortable 82 to 97 foot yachts with space for a long day, shaded decks and swim platforms, each with captain and crew.
97' San Lorenzo
Astonish
Up to 13 guests · From $7,000 / 4 hours
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92' Pershing
Pershing 92
Up to 13 guests · From $6,900 / 4 hours
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88' Princess
Freedom
Up to 13 guests · From $6,800 / 4 hours
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88' Sirena (New)
Sirena 88
Up to 13 guests · From $9,000 / 4 hours
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88' Azimut Grande
Cloud 9
Up to 13 guests · From $9,000 / 4 hours
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82' Pershing
Milagros
Up to 13 guests · From $5,200 / 4 hours
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Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to reach Stiltsville and Boca Chita by yacht?
Stiltsville is within reach on a six-hour charter from Miami Beach, but Boca Chita Key is further south and best done as an eight-hour day. Timing depends on the yacht's cruising speed and on conditions, and the captain will plan the route for your date.
Can we go ashore at Boca Chita Key or Stiltsville?
The Stiltsville houses are private structures, so most charters view them from the water. Boca Chita Key is part of Biscayne National Park, and whether a landing is possible depends on the yacht, the conditions and the park's rules on the day. The captain will advise; many groups simply anchor and swim.
Is Biscayne Bay calm enough for a full-day charter?
The bay is sheltered, so it is usually calmer than the open ocean, which makes it a good choice for a long day. Wind can still make some stretches choppy. The captain watches the forecast and may adjust the order of stops or the turnaround point to keep everyone comfortable.
Does the Biscayne Bay itinerary cost more because of fuel?
It can. On some yachts fuel is included in the hourly rate, while others charge it separately on long runs. Your quote states this clearly before you book, along with any catering, gratuity and tax, so you can compare yachts fairly.
Can we see Star Island without doing the full day?
Yes. A four-hour cruise past Star Island, Fisher Island and the downtown skyline is one of the most popular short charters. The full Biscayne Bay day is for groups who want to go further south and spend more time swimming and relaxing at anchor.
Plan more time on the water
Plan your Biscayne Bay day
Share your date and group size and we will send yachts suited to a full day on the bay, with the route and every cost itemized.
Altrove Yachts is a charter broker and arranges yachts from third-party operators. Availability, pickup marina and pricing are confirmed in writing with every quote.