Everything You Need to Know About Boat Rentals in Florida
Florida is a boater’s paradise, no question about it. The state’s many coastlines, waterways, and byways offer up perfect places for everything from family-friendly outings and world-class fishing to romantic getaways or unforgettable special occasions. Whether you are a tourist or a resident, taking in all of Florida’s boating fun is more than enticing, it’s practically a necessity. The only catch? You need a boat. The answer? Boat rentals. Florida has many options to choose from too, which can get complicated. So, let’s dig into all you need to know about boat rentals in Florida and get you ready to enjoy this boater’s paradise.
Boat Rentals Florida: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide will give you the information you need on how to rent a boat in Florida and set you up to successfully take advantage of the fun to be had out on the water.
Boat Rentals Florida: Pricing
Your Florida boat rent price is mostly based on what type of boat you rent and for how long. Other factors that play into the price can be gas, fishing gear or other amenities, and parking costs. This all adds up to what the price to rent a boat in Florida will be.
Boat Rentals Florida: Selecting a Boat
The type of boat you rent will figure into cost, but what you plan to do with your boat rental and how many people you plan to accommodate will determine the type of boat you need. Do you primarily want to get from point A to point B via the water? Or is spending time on the boat the main attraction? Is your main motivation to get in some fishing? Or to take in the sights? Do you have a particular boating destination in Florida in mind?
Common boat rentals include:
Pontoons - Accommodate large groups and offer flexibility for different activities, including fishing, picnics, cruising, and sightseeing
Runabouts - Built for smaller groups for boating, exploring, island hopping, and casual fishing
Fishing boats - Intended mainly for fishing excursions for up to six people, including fishing gear and tackle
Boat Rentals Florida: Selecting a Boat Company
There are lots of places in Florida with boats for rent. The trick is to find the one that is right for you. Do your research in the area you are staying or plan to explore. Look for high-rated operators that are well-reviewed by previous customers and have clear pricing for half-day, daily, and multi-day rentals. Find an operator that is well-informed about the area and will provide you with support from start to finish, making your boating adventure easier, not harder. Also make sure that the boats they rent are high quality, newer, and well-cared for.
Boat Rentals Florida: Regulations and Licenses
Boat regulations in Florida are governed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). This regulatory agency determines the need for a boat license in Florida, along with other rules and regulations governing Florida’s waterways.
To rent a boat in Florida, the FWC requires you to complete an approved boating safety course and carry a required and up-to-date Boating Safety Identification card. You can get a temporary boating certificate through the FWC. This temporary certificate (TC) allows renters to comply with the Boater Education Law.
Boat rental operations are required to check that renters have met the boating safety education required by the FWC to legally operate a boating vessel in Florida. The TC acts as a knowledge check conducted by the FWC to make sure renters can legally operate a boat in Florida by fulfilling the boating safety education requirements. The exam used to be given in paper form, but is now available online and is accessible 24-hours a day, seven days a week. The test is 25 random questions selected from a large question bank. Once you pass an electronic temporary certificate is issued. The TC is valid for 90 days and is required, along with a photo id, to rent and operate a boat in Florida. The FWC website will provide you with all the current requirements.
Boat Rentals Florida: Rental Agreements and Insurance
Signing a boat rental agreement in Florida is standard practice. Before you sign, make sure to read through your agreement and understand the rules and guidelines. This includes:
How far you are allowed to travel from the point of rental
The cost of any damage done to the boat while in your possession
The fuel level in the boat and the cost of refueling
The areas you are allowed to explore with the boat and what areas are off limits
The boat rental company’s insurance liability coverage
Boat Insurance in Florida
The liability insurance of your boat rental company does not usually apply to you as the boat renter. You can check with your current insurance company to see if your policy will cover damage to your rental boat. This can be done before you decide to rent a boat and comes with an understanding of the risk and cost of damaging the boat you are renting.
Boat Rentals Florida: Your Rental Check
One way to ensure that you are not charged for boat damage that you did not cause is through a boat rental check. This is similar to a car rental check where you mark and note any existing boat damage before you take possession. Inspect and write down any issues or damage that you spot. This includes:
Scratches, dents, or warping on the boat’s hull
Stains, scratches, or marks on the boat seats
Cracks or noticeable scratches on the boat’s windshield
Loose or broken fittings
Damage to propeller or leaks in the motor
Taking the time to do this and keeping a record will help you avoid any problems upon returning the boat.
Safety Equipment Requirements
Having the necessary safety equipment on your boat is the law. Make sure your boat has life jackets for every boater on the vessel. Also check to ensure that you have a map of the area you plan to explore along with suggested routes or any tricky navigation you may encounter.
Boat Rentals Florida: Tips for an Enjoyable Experience
Being prepared can save you a lot of hassle and headache when the point of your trip is relaxation and enjoyment. Tips for Florida boating include:
Arriving early for your scheduled departure to complete your paperwork and rental check so it does not cut into your planned time on the water
Bringing your boat rental confirmation with you
Reading and understanding your boat rental agreement before you sign it
Carefully inspecting your boat
Checking the forecast and preparing for inclement weather
Packing extra clothing in case of windy, rainy, or otherwise less than ideal weather. This can often pass quickly in Florida, but being caught unprepared is no fun
Packing food, beverages, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, towels, fishing rods, tackle, supplies, and bait
Ready to Rent
Renting a boat in Florida does not have to be complicated. Boat rental operators, such as Your Boat Club, are there to help you explore this boat lover’s paradise. And now that you have all the ins and outs of boat rentals in Florida, it’s time to book your boat. Contact Your Boat Club. Your Florida boating adventure awaits.
