When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Beach with a group of friends or family, consider
Ocean Force Adventures
Why Ocean Force Adventures is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ocean Force Adventures offers a unique and intimate way to explore Miami Beach and its surrounding waters, standing out as the premier choice for travelers seeking personalized small group and private boat tours. Unlike large, crowded sightseeing cruises, this company specializes in small groups with a maximum of 27 passengers, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of personal attention. Their tours boast expert local guides who share authentic stories about Miami’s culture, history, and marine life, providing richer narratives than typical scripted tours. Highlights include cruising past iconic locations such as Star Island, Millionaire's Row, the Art Deco skyline of South Beach, Fisher Island, and secluded sites like Stiltsville. Guests often enjoy sightings of dolphins, manatees, and tropical birds in their natural habitats, creating memorable wildlife encounters. The company also offers fully customizable private charters tailored to guests’ interests and schedules, making it ideal for families, couples, and groups wanting tailored experiences. Departures are conveniently located at Miami Beach Marina, within walking distance from many South Beach hotels, providing easy access. The clean, well-maintained Zodiac RIB boats add to the comfort and excitement of the adventure. Overall, Ocean Force Adventures is perfect for those who value authentic, high-quality, and engaging maritime excursions in Miami Beach.
Here's what people think of Ocean Force Adventures
As of recent, Ocean Force Adventures holds a 4.9-star rating based on 103 reviews.
User reviews of Ocean Force Adventures consistently highlight its exceptional service and memorable experiences, which is reflected in its impressive 4.9-star rating across over 100 reviews. Positive feedback often praises the professionalism and knowledge of the local guides, who provide captivating stories and insights about Miami’s history, culture, and natural environment. Guests appreciate the smaller, more intimate group sizes, which foster a personalized and less crowded experience compared to larger boat tours. Many also enjoy the frequent encounters with marine wildlife, such as dolphins and manatees, which add an exciting natural element to the tours. The flexibility to customize private tours is another commonly mentioned advantage, allowing guests to explore specific locations or interests at their own pace. On the other hand, negative reviews, though few, sometimes mention scheduling challenges or limited availability during peak seasons, which can restrict booking options. A small number of guests noted that some tours might not be suitable for young children during evening cruises due to timing or weather conditions. Despite these few critiques, overall customer sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing high satisfaction with the quality of the boats, the professionalism of the crew, and the unique, authentic experiences offered. The majority of users recommend Ocean Force Adventures as a top choice for anyone wanting an engaging and exclusive Miami boat tour experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dana Salvato
Unreal Raccoon Island experience!!! This boat tour to Sandspur Island was an absolute blast! The ride through Biscayne Bay was smooth and scenic. Captain Kim shared details about the homes we passed and some fun historical facts. Once we arrived at the island, we had to look around a bit for the raccoons, but we had been prepped by our captain on what to expect and the best ways to attract the raccoons. Within a few minutes, curious raccoons wandered over to greet us — they were friendly, adorable, and clearly used to visitors. We brought snacks (they loved Lays chips!) and even shared water from our bottles - some of them drank straight from it like little beach bandits! It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime, up-close encounter with nature, and we couldn't stop laughing and snapping photos. OceanForce Adventures are real pros. We knew exactly what to expect on our excursion thanks to the incredible level of detail on their website. Many thanks to Captain Kim for such a wonderful and memorable experience!
Kathryn Christianson
We had an absolutely wonderful day out on the boat with Captain Colin. He was very knowledgeable about the history of the Miami area, had some really cool photos from yesteryear, and took us by a lot of really great places. We enjoyed Stiltsville, downtown Miami, Key Biscayne lighthouse, and seeing so many beautiful homes. This was our third time out with Ocean Force Adventures, we just keep coming back with other friends! We would highly recommend this tour and I’m sure we will be back for round 4 in the future! Thanks again Colin for your hospitality!
Scott Hancher
We loved our tour. Small boat. My wife and I plus one other guest. The boat holds 6 max. We took the Stiltsville tour. Captain Colin was great! He knew so much history and provided us with a crash course on the Miami waterfront. Highly recommended.
doug lewis
This was a worthwhile experience. Our captain was Colin, who took us to Raccoon Island. We decided on the morning tour, which if you're looking to go, this is the tour to take. It was a beautiful 20-minute ride by boat, and we had an hour to walk around the island. We saw a bunch of raccoons. Our captain was friendly and pointed out sights along the way. If you're planning a trip, please take water. Those raccoons don't have access to fresh water often.
Christopher Fitzmaurice
I enjoyed the experience. Kim (the captain) was very friendly and knowledgeable about history of Miami. She showed me some interesting places in Miami that I've never seen. I've been living in Miami close to 10 years and I feel I know more about the city's history because of her knowledge. I highly recommend anybody who are either new to Miami or a current resident to take this experience. It was both fun and worthwhile.
How to reach Ocean Force Adventures
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Why Ocean Force Adventures may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ocean Force Adventures with your friends?
When planning a meetup with friends or family, choosing a distinctive and memorable venue is essential. Ocean Force Adventures stands out as an exceptional destination to gather and create lasting memories. Located in the vibrant Miami Beach Marina, this business offers an unparalleled combination of excitement, natural beauty, and personalized experiences that appeal to groups seeking both relaxation and adventure. The intimate setting of their small-group boat tours ensures that each person enjoys a seat in the front row, making the adventure feel exclusive and engaging. Their expert local guides bring Miami’s rich history, culture, and natural wonders to life with fascinating stories and insights, transforming a simple outing into an enriching experience. What truly makes Ocean Force Adventures ideal for groups is the perfect blend of its peaceful Biscayne Bay waters, the chance to explore exclusive sites like Stiltsville’s iconic houses, and the excitement of spotting marine wildlife such as dolphins and rays. Whether it’s a family reunion, a friends’ getaway, or a special occasion, this place provides an adventurous yet comfortable atmosphere that brings people closer together through shared discovery.
What activities does Ocean Force Adventures offer for groups?
Ocean Force Adventures specializes in curated boat tours departing from Miami Beach Marina, designed to provide immersive exploration of Biscayne National Park and nearby marine treasures. One of the signature experiences is the Stiltsville Miami Tour, which takes small groups directly to the mysterious and historic cluster of wooden houses perched on stilts above the bay. These structures are steeped in stories—from notorious 1960s retreats to quirky art installations—captivating visitors with history linked to Miami’s unique coastal culture. The tours feature up-close views of renowned houses such as the A-Frame House and the Bay Chateau. Along the route, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the clear turquoise waters, the Miami skyline, and often spot dolphins, rays, and marine birds that animate this vibrant ecosystem.
Apart from boating, Ocean Force also offers walking tours focusing on Miami’s hidden gems, historic districts, and transformative art installations, adding urban cultural exploration to its portfolio. These guided walking experiences delve into landmarks, architecture, and the intriguing blend of old Miami traditions and contemporary art, perfect for groups interested in a more grounded exploration of the city. Every tour is led by knowledgeable captains or guides who are licensed and deeply familiar with the local environment, ensuring each storytelling moment and sighting is meaningful. Safety, comfort, and personalized attention to guests are prioritized, with boats expertly maintained and tours scheduled to optimize weather and wildlife spotting conditions. This combination of diverse tour options makes Ocean Force Adventures highly flexible for groups of different interests and energy levels.
Why is Ocean Force Adventures perfect for a group meetup?
Ocean Force Adventures’ small group approach, with a maximum of 18 participants spread over three tours per day, fosters a warm, friendly atmosphere ideal for group bonding. They avoid overcrowded boats, ensuring that everyone can enjoy unobstructed views and participate fully in conversations and activities without feeling lost in a crowd. Their curation of experiences allows groups to customize their outing—whether it’s a daytime adventure hunting dolphin sightings early in the morning or a sunset tour framed by Miami’s glittering skyline. The location itself is perfectly situated in Miami Beach Marina, providing easy access from hotels and major city attractions, minimizing logistical hassles for groups.
Moreover, the tours are paced thoughtfully; they are stable and comfortable rides even for those not accustomed to boating, with safety as a top priority. The inclusion of captivating narratives about Miami’s past, present, and natural wonders enriches the outing, making it not just fun but also educational. For those who appreciate mementos, Ocean Force Adventures offers a range of merchandise like T-shirts and hats featuring their unique Stiltsville artwork, giving groups tangible reminders of their experience together. This well-rounded combination of comfort, culture, and connection makes it perfect for friends or families looking for a memorable day out, combining adventure with meaningful communal experiences.
How can groups best prepare for a tour with Ocean Force Adventures?
To maximize enjoyment at Ocean Force Adventures, groups should consider scheduling their tours earlier in the day. Morning tours around 9:30 a.m. or 11:45 a.m. are recommended to improve the chances of encountering dolphins and to avoid the typical afternoon summer rain showers common in Miami’s climate. Early booking is also advisable since space is limited, and tours fill quickly due to the business’s popularity and intimate group size.
Guests should apply sunblock before arriving, as the tours expose participants to the Florida sun, and sunglasses are recommended to protect against glare and wind. Photographers will appreciate that the boat tours are generally dry experiences unless there is unusually windy weather, so camera equipment can be used safely to capture spectacular views of Miami’s skyline and natural surroundings.
Ocean Force Adventures places a strong emphasis on health and safety, requiring all captains and staff to be vaccinated, and thoroughly sanitizing boats between tours using CDC-approved disinfectants. Groups including children should note that the minimum age is four years, and pregnant women in early stages or those with serious back injuries should consider their medical advice before booking. Tipping of the captain is voluntary but appreciated, contributing to the attentive service quality. Being mindful of these recommendations will ensure a smooth, comfortable, and unforgettable group outing on the water.
What makes the Stiltsville tour uniquely appealing for group adventures?
The Stiltsville tour offered by Ocean Force Adventures is a standout attraction that combines Miami’s intriguing history, local lore, and natural beauty. Stiltsville is a unique collection of colorful wooden homes built on stilts above the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay, originally constructed as fishing shacks and later transformed into exclusive social clubs. This hidden enclave has fascinated locals and visitors for decades, and the tour provides an exclusive chance to explore these structures up close, which larger boats cannot approach due to their size.
Groups encounter a variety of houses like the A-Frame House and the infamous Bikini Club, learning fascinating stories about secret gatherings and legendary figures who frequented these waters. The tour also highlights fascinating art pieces such as the Space Invader mosaics, mysterious works by a famous street artist, cleverly integrated into the stilts and walls, adding an unexpected cultural twist to the maritime scenery. Wildlife is another major highlight, with frequent sightings of dolphins, rays, and marine birds that frequent Biscayne National Park’s protected waters. This blend of history, art, wildlife, and scenic views makes Stiltsville tours entertaining, educational, and profoundly memorable for groups seeking a shared narrative experience in a stunning setting.
How does the expertise of the guides enhance the group experience?
Ocean Force Adventures prides itself on employing highly knowledgeable, USCG-licensed captains and local guides who bring Miami’s watery landscape and colorful past vividly to life. Their deep familiarity with the area's marine environment, history, and urban culture transforms each tour from a simple sightseeing trip into a dynamic storytelling session. These guides share lesser-known anecdotes about landmarks, wildlife habits, and historical events, providing guests context that enriches their understanding and appreciation of what they see.
For group meetups, this personalized storytelling fosters a sense of connection—not only among participants as they listen and learn together—but also between the guests and the city itself. The guides’ attentive approach ensures that everyone feels involved, questions are welcomed, and special interests within the group can be accommodated. Their skillful navigation and commentary ensure smooth, safe tours that run on time while leaving room for leisurely moments to absorb the scenery. This expertise is a vital component of the service, elevating the experience beyond many other boat tours in the area, making it especially attractive for groups wanting both fun and substance on their outing.
What amenities and extras does Ocean Force Adventures provide?
Beyond the core touring experience, Ocean Force Adventures enhances group outings with thoughtful amenities and extras that add comfort and convenience. Their vessels are clean, stable, and comfortable, ensuring smooth rides even during higher speeds without sacrificing safety or passenger ease. The boats also feature seating arrangements designed for small groups to interact easily, encouraging socializing and shared moments.
Located in the Miami Beach Marina, guests have easy access to parking and nearby dining or entertainment, making it simple to plan before or after-tour gatherings. The company also offers a stylish selection of merchandise, including hand-sketched design T-shirts and hats celebrating Stiltsville and their tours, excellent for groups wanting a keepsake to commemorate their adventure. The reservation process is straightforward, with online booking options that include discounts and the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for group scheduling.
Customer reviews consistently highlight the exceptional service, knowledgeable captains, and the smooth ride experience, confirming that groups will be well cared for and impressed throughout their time with Ocean Force Adventures. These details combine to ensure that group meetups are not only fun and educational but seamlessly executed from start to finish.