General Questions About Boat Rentals in Florida
Q1: What are the requirements to rent a boat in Florida?
A2: Requirements to rent a boat in Florida typically include being at least 18 years old and possessing a valid government-issued photo ID. Florida law also requires a boater education card if born after January 1, 1988. It’s advisable to review the specific requirements of the boat rental company you intend to use. At Pirate Monkey you must be at least 21 years old and have 2 years of boating experience.
Q2: How much does it cost to rent a boat in Florida?
A1: Boat rental costs in Florida vary based on factors such as the type of boat, duration of rental, and location. Across the industry, prices range from $300 to $1200 per day. To get accurate pricing information for your desired boat rental, it’s recommended to check with specific companies or use online platforms. At Pirate Monkey, our prices start at $350 for a half day.
Q3: Can you rent a boat in Florida without a boating license?
A3: Yes, you can rent a boat in Florida without a boating license if you were born before January 1, 1988. Individuals born on or after January 1, 1988 are required to have a boater education card, which can be obtained by completing a boating safety course.
Q4: Where can I rent a boat in Florida?
A4: Boat rentals are available throughout Florida, including popular coastal cities like Sarasota, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Key West, and Tampa, as well as inland areas with lakes and rivers. To find boat rental options, you can search online platforms, use specific keywords like “boat rentals in [city name],” or consult local tourism information websites. Pirate Monkey Boat Rental is located on the beautiful gulf coast with access to some of the best beaches, islands, and fishing that Florida has to offer. Conveniently located on the Manatee River, you can avoid the traffic to Anna Maria Island and the congestion on popular beaches by renting our boats and visiting secluded islands, sandbars, and hidden spots.
Q5: What types of boats can I rent in Florida?
A5: Florida offers a wide range of boats for rent to suit different preferences and activities. Some common boat types available for rental include pontoon boats, deck boats, fishing boats, ski boats, jet skis, sailboats, and yachts. Availability may vary depending on the rental location and company, so it’s recommended to check with specific rental providers for their offerings. At Pirate Monkey Boat Rental, we offer the most popular styles including pontoon and deck boats. Pontoons are easy to drive, super stable, and have become the most popular rental boats. Our 24′ pontoons are the perfect size for your next family vacation.
Q6: How far in advance should I book a boat rental in Florida?
A6: It is generally recommended to book your boat rental well in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays when demand is high. Booking a few weeks or even months ahead can help ensure availability and allow you to secure the boat of your choice.
Q7: Is boat insurance required when renting a boat in Florida?
A7: Boat rental companies in Florida are required to provide insurance coverage for their rental fleets. Pirate Monkey Boat Rental is fully licensed and insured, compliant with Florida’s Boating Safety Act of 2022 which went into effect on January 1, 2023.
Q8: Are fuel costs included in the boat rental price?
A8: Fuel costs are not typically included in the boat rental price. Most boat rental companies require you to return the boat with the same amount of fuel it had when you received it. You will be responsible for refueling the boat, and fuel expenses are borne by the renter. Pirate Monkey Boat Rental is located at a marina with a fuel dock. You can refuel when you return (our dock hands will handle the fueling for you) and pay for your gas at the marina ship store.
Q9: Can I rent a boat for a half-day or multiple days in Florida?
A9: Yes, many boat rental companies in Florida offer flexible rental options, including half-day, full-day, and multi-day rentals. You can choose the rental duration that suits your needs and preferences. It’s best to check with the rental company for specific availability and pricing details.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, the owner is a Veteran and we gladly gives discounts to military, veterans and first responders. Use code Veteran10. Please bring your Veteran or military ID to verify status at check in.
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Tritoons (Pontoon with 3 toons to increase stability) and deck boats which are like bow rider run-about boats.
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150hp outboards.
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Renters driving the boat must have at least 2 years of boating experience. No exceptions.
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Renter is responsible for all damage to boat or to property of others whether or not he/she is negligent or the cause of the damage.
Renter is responsible for any and all injuries that occur to themselves, passengers or third parties during the rental period, whether renter was the cause of the injury or not.
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48 hours prior to departure time, 100% refund; same-day cancellation 100% refund if due to unsafe weather conditions as determined by Sunset Boat Rental or its staff.
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As far north Fort DeSoto, West to Egmont Key, East to Fort Hammer and South to Jewfish Key
The boats are prohibited from entering the Gulf of Mexico.
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Yes. Please call Capt Josh at 941-735-8385 for rates and availability.
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We offer 4, 6, and 8 hour rentals.
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Regatta Pointe Marina, located on the Manatee River in Palmetto. The address is: 1005 Riverside Drive, Palmetto FL 34221
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Yes, we do have depth finders with navigation on them; however once in awhile they do go out. Our boats go out almost daily which means the electronics get salt water sprayed on them everyday which means we have to replace electronics about every 6 months. We do our best to keep them running, but due to the nature of the environment we work in, it is not always 100% working.
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Yes.
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You will start with a full tank and then pay for only the fuel you use when you return to the marina.
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Yes. All safety equipment is on board. We have lifejackets for infants to adults.
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a. Driver’s license is all you need if you were born before January 1st of 1988, otherwise, you will need to complete and bring your Coast Guard approved boater’s safety course card
b. If you plan to fish, you need to bring your fishing-license
c. Other items recommended for time on the water: towels, sunscreen, goggles, snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, food, water -
If renter returns the watercraft late (after 4:30pm without approval), the fuel + a convenience charge of $100/hour will be charged to the renter’s credit card on file.
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No.
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No.
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No. Because we have a limited launch window for our boats, we do not have a permanently staffed store front. Therefore, we do not accept walk-up or same day reservations as the we will not have staff available to check in guests and launch the boat.