The Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, Miami can also be visited by boat

Miami would not exist without water. The city is home to the world's largest cruise port and is surrounded by the magnificent Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. There's no doubt about it, Miami is a top destination for pleasure boating. For sailing and water sports too. Its aquamarine waters, straight out of a subtropical paradise, offer the pleasant temperatures of the South Seas. Miami is easy to visit by setting sail for a few hours, half a day or a whole day. In fact, the only way to visit the coast and the most luxurious islands dotted around Miami is by boat. The best views of the city, as well as its turquoise waters, are from the sea. Cruises are available to discover private islands, hidden beaches, sumptuous star villas and aquatic wildlife, starting with dolphins.

A cruise to the Atlantic Ocean

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Exploring Miami's marinas

Miami Beach Marina

At the southern end of South Beach, Miami Beach Marina offers around 400 berths, from luxury boats to dive boats. If you're feeling peckish, the Texas De Brazil restaurant and the Smith & Wollensky steakhouse offer hearty meat and fish dishes, as well as stunning views of Fisher Island and the cruise ships.

Coconut Grove Marina

Part of the picturesque Coconut Grove skyline, Dinner Key Marina is the town's largest marina with 582 berths. It's the perfect place to book a fishing or sailing boat, or simply enjoy the view and a meal on the dock at Monty's Raw Bar.

Coconut Grove Marina

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Bayside Marina

Bayside Marina is located in downtown Miami, with 130 berths. This marina is the embarkation point for a number of boat trips that take in the Miami skyline, the port, Downtown and Fisher Island. Before or after the excursion, the Bayside Marketplace in the city centre, overlooking the marina, is a hub of activity.

Bill Bird Marina

Bill Bird Marina in Haulover Park on North Miami Beach is located on the Intracoastal Waterway, providing access to a variety of waterways. It is also surrounded by a golf course.

Crandon Marina

This marina is located on Key Biscayne and is perfect for diving, as it is just a few kilometres from artificial and natural reefs. It's also an ideal spot for fishing or simply strolling along the quays at sunset, with a magnificent view of the bay and waterfront.

Crandon Marina

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A few tips for your visit

The main sightseeing tours of Miami can be made with Island Queen Cruises, which offers a variety of expeditions from Miamarina, including Millionaire's Row. The boats will allow you to discover Biscayne Bay: Star Island, Palm Island, Hibiscus Island, to see the Port of Miami with its gigantic liners and a breathtaking view of the skyline of skyscrapers. The luxury homes line up, each one more beautiful than the last, those of hundreds of celebrities including Puff Daddy, Usher, Julio Iglesias, Shaquille O'Neal, Gloria Estefan, Oprah Winfrey, Al Capone and the late Edith Piaf.

Advice from the editor

Most cruises across the bay take place near Miami's Bayside Market. This is a very popular activity, so it's best to buy your ticket online. You then need to be present at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time of the cruise to check in. Seats are not allocated, so the earlier you arrive the quicker you'll get the best seats, either inside or outside on deck. The boats generally have toilets and a cash bar with drinks and snacks.

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