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Star Island Celebrity Homes Tour
Cruise Biscayne Bay for front-row views of Star Island’s waterfront mansions, mega-yachts, and iconic Miami skyline photo angles. See the island the way most visitors do—from the water.
A Star Island Celebrity Homes Tour is one of Miami’s classic sightseeing cruises: a relaxing loop across Biscayne Bay that passes Star Island and nearby Palm & Hibiscus Islands—often called “Millionaire’s Row.” Along the way, you’ll get narrated context, skyline views, and plenty of chances for photos from the best vantage point: the water.
Star Island is a private, guarded residential island with no public visitor access, so the “tour” experience is primarily a boat-based pass-by of the waterfront estates and docks. Many tours also swing by areas near Fisher Island, the Port of Miami, and the mouth of the Miami River depending on the operator and conditions.
Most mass-market Star Island mansion cruises depart from Bayside Marketplace in Downtown Miami, making it easy to pair your cruise with dining, shopping, and a walk along the waterfront before or after your ride.
About This Experience
The Star Island Celebrity Homes Tour is a sightseeing boat cruise across Biscayne Bay that typically loops past Star Island and the neighboring mansion islands (Palm & Hibiscus Islands). Expect narrated highlights, slow passes near the seawalls for viewing, and big panoramas of the Downtown Miami skyline. Because Star Island is private and gated, you won’t dock or walk the island—your views are from the boat, which is exactly what makes this tour so popular.
Logistics note: Most operators use Bayside Marketplace / Miamarina at Bayside (401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami) for check-in and departure—often around the waterside promenade behind major storefronts. Arrive early to park, find the pier, and choose better seating on first-come, first-served boats.
Popular cruise loops (typical routes)
Star Island + Millionaire’s Row Loop
A classic pass by Star Island plus Palm & Hibiscus Islands, with narrated mansion spotting and wide-open bay views.
Skyline + Mansion Islands (Downtown-facing)
Adds longer skyline viewing time and photo angles toward Downtown Miami, often near the Miami River mouth depending on traffic and conditions.
Sunset Mansion Cruise
A later departure timed for softer light and skyline glow—great for photos, breezier temperatures, and a more relaxed vibe.
Perfect Boats for This Activity
Moon
Mocca
Azimut TH
Azimut 48
Azimut DD90
The Godfather
Azumut Fly 80
Azimut FR60
Andiamo Azimut
Pardo 43 I
Whiskey & Waves at Miami Beach
Le Grand Bleu at Miami Beach
Moon
Mocca
Azimut TH
Azimut 48
Azimut DD90
The Godfather
Azumut Fly 80
Azimut FR60
Andiamo Azimut
Pardo 43 I
Whiskey & Waves at Miami Beach
Le Grand Bleu at Miami Beach
Where This Activity Takes Place
Getting There
Multiple departure points available
Open in Maps
Tips for a smooth Star Island tour by boat
Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early at Bayside Marketplace to handle traffic, parking, and check-in.
Seating is often first-come, first-served—arriving early helps you pick the best side for views and photos.
Star Island is private and guarded: expect a water-only experience with slow passes near the seawalls, not a stop on the island.
Bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). On open decks, the reflection off the bay can be intense.
If weather looks uncertain, choose a boat with a covered or indoor deck—many tours operate rain or shine.
Outside alcohol/food is often not allowed; plan on onboard drinks/snacks for purchase (policies vary).
If you want the skyline in your photos, ask crew which side typically faces Downtown on that day’s route.
Parking at Bayside Marketplace Garage is usually the most convenient; rates can vary (often described as around ~$9/hr—confirm on arrival).
Best time to go
For the best light and comfort, aim for late afternoon or sunset—skyline photos are usually strongest then, and temperatures are often milder on the water. Midday departures can be bright and hot but typically offer the clearest visibility. Weekdays are often less crowded than weekends, especially during peak travel seasons.
See Star Island by boat with BoatPass
BoatPass makes it easy to plan a Star Island-style day on the water around Biscayne Bay—perfect for cruising past Millionaire’s Row, lining up skyline shots, and keeping the schedule flexible. BoatPass membership covers captain, fuel, and docking on all trips, with no initiation fees, no contracts, and cancel anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Star Island is a private, guarded residential island with no public visitor access. Most people experience it from the water on a sightseeing cruise that passes the waterfront homes.
Many of the most common “celebrity homes” and “Millionaire’s Row” tours depart from Bayside Marketplace / Miamarina at Bayside (401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132). Your specific pier and check-in instructions depend on the operator.
Most tours run about 60–90 minutes, depending on the operator, route, and bay traffic. Some versions spend extra time on skyline views or add nearby points like Fisher Island or the Port of Miami.
You’ll see waterfront mansions and docks along Star Island, Palm Island, and Hibiscus Island, plus mega-yachts and wide views of Biscayne Bay. Many routes also showcase the Downtown Miami skyline and nearby waterways.
Bring sun protection, a light layer for wind on the water, and your camera/phone. If you plan to buy alcohol onboard, bring ID. Check the operator’s policy on outside food and drinks before you arrive.
Yes—Bayside Marketplace Garage is the most convenient option for many departures. Rates and availability vary by day and events, so arrive early and confirm pricing on arrival.
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