In short
- The Stiltsville tour takes 2 hours and stays on the water.
- The Boca Chita tour takes up to 4 hours and includes time on the island.
- Both tours depart from Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove.
In this article
Because 95% of Biscayne National Park is water, guided boat tours are essential for exploring. The Biscayne National Park Institute runs two popular routes from Miami. Your choice depends on your budget and how much time you have.
What is the main difference between the two tours?
The Stiltsville tour is shorter and keeps you on the boat, while the Boca Chita tour includes an island landing.
The Stiltsville Guided Tour is a sightseeing cruise. You view historic structures from the water. The Boca Chita Key Heritage Cruise is longer. It drops you off on an island so you can walk around and see the 1930s lighthouse.
| Feature | Stiltsville Tour | Boca Chita Tour |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours | 3.5 to 4 hours |
| Price (Adult) | Around $70 | Around $83 |
| Island Landing? | No | Yes |
| Highlights | 6 historic houses | 65-foot lighthouse |
What will you see on the Stiltsville tour?
You will see six historical wooden houses built on stilts directly in the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay.
This 2-hour cruise focuses on the history of Prohibition and gambling. The houses hover over seagrass meadows. You cannot go inside the houses, but you will get close enough for photos. Look down into the clear shallows during the ride to spot marine life.
What will you do on the Boca Chita tour?
You will cruise across the bay and spend time walking around the park's most popular island.
This trip takes 3.5 to 4 hours. Once on Boca Chita Key, you can view the 65-foot ornamental lighthouse built by Mark Honeywell. You can also walk a short half-mile hiking trail. The observation deck on the lighthouse is only open when authorized guides are present to unlock it.
Where do both boat tours depart?
Both guided excursions depart from Dinner Key Marina in Miami's Coconut Grove neighborhood.
You do not need to drive south to Homestead for these trips. The departure point is Pier 9 at 3400 Pan American Dr, Miami. Traffic in Coconut Grove can be heavy, so plan to arrive 30 minutes early.
What should you pack for Boca Chita Key?
Bring plenty of drinking water, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Boca Chita Key has no fresh drinking water available. You must bring your own supplies. Mosquitoes are present year-round on the island. There are no trash cans, so you must pack out all of your waste.
Are there passenger limits on the boats?
Yes, boats are strictly limited in capacity by the US Coast Guard.
Every person counts toward the total passenger limit. This includes infants. You should book your tickets in advance to secure a spot. Pets are not permitted on the boats or on Boca Chita Key.
Questions travellers ask
Which tour is better for families with young children?
The 2-hour Stiltsville cruise is often better for young children. It is shorter, reducing the chance of restlessness or seasickness. If you choose the Boca Chita tour, ensure you bring adequate water and snacks for the longer duration.
Do prices change based on the season?
Prices are generally stable but can change based on the booking platform. The Stiltsville tour costs about $70 per adult, while the Boca Chita tour costs about $83 per adult.
Can I drive my own boat to Boca Chita Key?
Yes, private boaters can visit. If you dock at Boca Chita Key on a weekend (Friday through Monday) or a federal holiday, you must pay a $25 day-use fee.
