Private Sandbar, Billionaire’s Row & Raccoon Island Tour review
What the tour is like
You book this tour for your group alone — you don’t share the boat with strangers. Your guide is Captain Henry, who picks you up and drives you on a 3-hour loop: first to a sandbar where you can swim, then past Billionaire’s Row to see the famous homes, then to Raccoon Island to see the wild raccoons and other wildlife. Amanda said her day with Captain Henry was amazing, and Raccoon Island was the best part. Catherine called it a lifetime memory; Captain Henry was the perfect guide. Marta saw macaws, iguanas, and pelicans — rarer sightings that suggest Captain Henry knows where to look. You control the pace, the swim time, and the photos. The private format means no waiting for strangers, no large-group dynamics, no rushing. By the end, you feel like you got a personal tour of the bay.
What works
- Private means your group controls the experience; no rushing, no strangers
- Captain Henry praised repeatedly by name; Amanda, Catherine, and Marta all loved him
- Catherine called it a lifetime memory; that’s the quality bar
- Sandbar swimming is included; you get water time without paddling
- Raccoon Island is the finale; you end on a high note
- Marta saw macaws, iguanas, and pelicans — wildlife knowledge shows
- 3-hour commitment is manageable; enough time without being exhausting
- 4.9 rating from 44 reviews, all strong
Worth knowing
- $359 group price is the priciest option; requires splitting costs among your group
- Private tour only works for groups; solo travelers need to join a group or pay full
- Only 44 reviews; smallest sample of consistency
- Smaller group means fewer opportunities for group interaction
- Sandbar quality varies by tide; sometimes more water than sand
- Lunch not included; eat before or after
Book this for a special occasion or when you want full control. Captain Henry is the draw; make sure he’s the guide when you book. The sandbar swim is the first major activity; bring a swimsuit and water shoes. Bring reef-safe sunscreen for the whole tour. For a group of 6, $359 is $60 per person — a premium but private. Ask Captain Henry about the best time to visit the sandbar for best conditions.
Who it’s for
Groups of 4–8 people who want a private experience. Special occasions and memorable trips. Travelers who value intimate guide experience and control over timing. Couples willing to pay more for privacy.Not for you if: you want the lowest per-person price. See the Ultimate Biscayne at $74 for budget-friendly. Want to paddle? Try the SUP & Kayak tour. Learn more in the complete guide.
Other tours to consider
Top ratedRaccoon Island Adventure: Wildlife, Island Walk & Floats
Most booked
Half dayMiami: 4-Hour Island Hopping Boat Trip with Floating Mat
Frequently asked questions
Why is Captain Henry so good?
Amanda said amazing day. Catherine said lifetime memory and perfect guide. Marta saw rare wildlife. The private format gives Henry time to know each guest and customize the experience.
How much does the $359 cost per person?
Divide by your group size. 4 people = $90 per person. 6 people = $60 per person. 8 people = $45 per person. Discuss who’s paying before you book.
What if we’re a couple?
You can book it; you’ll pay the full $359. Or join a group tour instead. Some couples find the private vibe worth the premium; others prefer group tours and shared cost.
Is the sandbar really swimmable?
Usually, yes. Conditions vary by tide. Marta’s trip gave good wildlife sightings, suggesting Captain Henry times it well. Bring a swimsuit just in case.
Can we see macaws like Marta did?
Macaws are rare but possible; some escaped from captivity and live in the Miami area. Captain Henry knows where they congregate. No guarantee, but his knowledge is evident.