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Miami on deck: cruising Florida’s sophisticated city

Take it all in from the water – the exciting, metropolitan cities of Miami and Miami Beach offer infinite possibilities for enjoyment during a private yacht cruise. Complete a thorough tour all in one day, or choose multiple destinations for lingering over a few days. Ready? Let’s cruise! Enter Miami’s Biscayne Bay from the Atlantic Ocean through Government Cut, and slow down to appreciate the massive shipping activity at Port of Miami. You’ll pass by Fisher Island known for its high real estate values and luxury estates. (Was that a celebrity you spotted?) Cruise north under the MacArthur Causeway and watch for more of the rich and famous. The stunning waterfront mansions on Palm Island, Star Island, and Hibiscus Island are home for stars including Shaquile O’Neal, Gloria Estefan, Will Smith, Madonna, P. Diddy and Sylvester Stallone. Next, cruise around the Venetian Islands, a group of six exclusive islands connected to Miami by the Venetian Causeway. Ready for a picnic? Monument Island is close by. Anchor out a bit or pull up to it with a kayak or tender. This small tropical oasis has a strip of beach for hanging out and a striking obelisk built to memorialize Henry Flagler. Of course no cruise of Miami Beach is complete without stopping at its ultra-trendy, non-stop party that is South Beach! People-watching is entertainment in itself, but don’t miss the beach, exclusive boutiques, restaurants from chic to casual, and night clubs that keep you dancing until morning. The Art Deco District’s historic architecture makes South Beach an irresistible blend of old and new. The 5.5-mile Miami River is another cruising option right through the city. Take a front seat view of shipping and maritime businesses, historic neighborhoods, restaurants and parks. The river originates at Brickell Key – a triangular private island filled with impressive upscale condominiums and hotels. Just before the Rickenbacker Causeway heading south, lying on the ocean side is the 82-acre Virginia Key. There is plenty to do and see including the island’s natural beach, Virginia Key Park and Miami Seaquarium, home to one of the world’s largest collections of marine life. Next as you cruise under the causeway, put Key Biscayne in your sights and enjoy Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Pull up to the Crandon Park sandbar where you’re sure to meet other boaters who congregate to enjoy the water, sand and sun. On the mainland across from northern Key Biscayne, catch your breath at the sight of beautiful Vizcaya, the 1916 national historic landmark retreat of James Deering. Now near the end of your Miami cruise, explore renowned Coconut Grove with its funky mixture of art festivals, boutiques, and diverse music. Finally, look back and take in the spectacular Miami skyline as the sun sets on your memorable Miami yachting cruise. Kate Kalamaga is Owner of Tropicalboat Charters, Inc.. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

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One Comment

  1. Wow, that island in the middle is incredible – everything looks so vibrant. I can definitely believe that that’s where celebs live! I don’t actually know much about Miami, and I had no clue that it had so many little islands like this. What a fascinating place to be

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