Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about booking a Miami Beach boat rental or water experience.
How old do you have to be to rent a boat in Miami?
You must be at least 18 years old to rent a boat in Florida, though some operators require renters to be 21. A person may operate a motorized vessel at 14 years old with a valid Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card. Passengers may be any age.
Do I need a boating license?
In order to operate a motorboat of ten (10) horsepower or greater, Florida law requires anyone who was born on or after January 1, 1988 to successfully complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Boating Safety Education Identification Card issued by the FWC. You can obtain a temporary certificate online: Temporary Boating Certificate. If you don’t have one, consider booking a captained rental.
Can we go out in the ocean?
For most self-captained Miami boat rentals, you are permitted on the Intracoastal Waterway and in Biscayne Bay within 20 miles of the departure marina — not offshore. Captained charters and yacht charters have more flexibility, with some able to reach the Keys or the Bahamas. Check each booking page for that operator’s permitted range.
How much is gas and tax?
Florida sales tax on boat rentals is 7%. Fuel is handled similar to a rental car: operators typically offer a prepaid fuel option based on boat and rental length, self-refuel at the marina, or per-gallon-used billing at return. Rates advertised on each booking page usually exclude tax, fuel, and booking fees.
How much is the security deposit?
Security deposits vary by operator and boat size. Typical ranges are $500–$1,500 for 2–8 hour rentals on smaller boats and $1,500–$3,000+ for multi-day rentals or larger yachts. The exact deposit and payment method (cash or card) are shown on each booking page and collected at the dock.
When is the security deposit returned?
Cash deposits are returned at the end of the rental as cash. Card deposits are released at the end of the rental, and depending on your bank can take 3–5 business days to reflect on your account. Operators can often assist in requesting an immediate release if needed.
How could I lose my security deposit?
99% of customers receive a full refund of their deposit. The most common deposit deductions on boat rentals are propeller-related, caused by operating in shallow water. Using common sense, listening to the pre-ride safety briefing, operating safely, and maintaining safe distances and water depths are the best ways to ensure a fun, safe rental with no complications.
What is included with the boat?
Standard rentals include all necessary Coast Guard-required safety and boating equipment. You provide your own food and drink. Most rentals include a cooler; ice is usually purchasable at the marina. Water toys (tubes, wakeboards, etc.) are generally not included — bring your own or rent separately.
Can we bring food and drinks on-board?
Yes. Most operators provide a cooler and let you bring your own food and drinks. Ice is available for purchase at most marinas. Glass bottles are often prohibited — check each operator’s rules before packing.
Where can we get food and drinks before launch?
Most Miami Beach marinas have a deli or market on-site, and there are grocery stores (Publix, Walgreens) within walking distance of Sunset Harbour, Miami Beach Marina, and the Venetian. Many marinas also have waterfront restaurants you can get food to-go from.
Can we bring alcohol on the boat?
Yes, for passengers of legal drinking age (21+), consumed responsibly. There is ZERO tolerance for the driver — it is illegal and a federal offense to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Boating Under the Influence (BUI) arrests result in loss of your security deposit and criminal charges.
Where can we go from Miami Beach?
Self-captained rentals are permitted on the Intracoastal Waterway and in Biscayne Bay within approximately 20 miles of the departure marina. Popular destinations are detailed on our destinations page — Haulover Sandbar, Nixon’s Beach, Miami River, Star Island, Fisher Island, Vizcaya, and more.
How do we navigate — how do we get there?
Before you leave the dock, operators provide a map and local-area briefing. Tell them what you want to see and they’ll recommend routes. Most rental boats are equipped with GPS and depth finders, and we also recommend downloading a marine GPS app on your phone. Beginners go out regularly without issue.
Do you have tubes, wakeboards, or water toys?
Most boat rentals do not include tubes, wakeboards, waterskis, or other water toys. You can bring your own, or book one of our dedicated Miami water sports experiences for wakeboarding, flyboarding, or tubing.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary by operator and experience. Most rentals offer free cancellation up to 24–48 hours before the scheduled time. The exact policy is shown on the booking page for each experience, or contact the operator directly if you have questions.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe for boating, your trip will be rescheduled or refunded. Operators monitor weather closely and contact you in advance if conditions require a change. Light rain typically does not cancel trips — only severe weather, high winds, or dangerous seas.
What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, a valid photo ID, towels, plenty of water, and food/drinks for the day. Wear comfortable clothing and non-marking shoes or sandals with straps. A waterproof phone case or dry bag is strongly recommended.
How do I book?
Browse our available boats, yachts, cruises, and excursions on any category page. Click "Book Now" to reserve through our secure booking partner, FareHarbor. Select date, time, and party size, complete payment, and you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details.