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Browse & Book Destin Boat Rentals.
Get set to boat with the GetMyBoat Guide to DestinPage 6 of 6 (133 listings)
Top Destinations Nearby
How much is it to rent a boat in Destin, Florida?
Boat rentals in Destin start at $50/hour for a pontoon and go up to $300/hour for a yacht charter. There are many affordable boat rental options in Destin, Florida.
How do you get from Destin to Crab Island?
To get to Crab Island you’ll want to rent a boat in Destin and head south of the Marler Bridge. The sandbar known as Crab Island is just off the coast of Destin, but must be reached on a boat rental, kayak, or other watercraft like a jet ski.
Do you need a boat to go to Crab Island Destin?
You need some sort of watercraft to access Crab Island in Destin. It is a sandbar that sits off the coast of the city. You can reach Crab Island by power boat, sailboat, jet ski, kayak, or even a paddleboard. It’s not a far distance from the mainland of Destin.
What is the best month to go to Destin Florida?
The best month to visit Destin, Florida, is between April and May, where you’ll have warm, sunny days and favorable weather. It can be a busy time with Spring Break vacationers, but typically in late April and May those crowds have gone.
What are the best places to visit by boat in Destin?
Some of the top destinations to see by boat from Destin include:
- Crab Island - a sandbar known for boat parties
- Fort Walton Beach
- Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Joe’s Bayou
- Norriego Point
The Destin Boating Guide 2023
- First Published Sep 15, 2022
- Last Updated Mar 06, 2023
In This Guide
The GetMyBoat Guide to Destin
A favorite part of Florida’s Emerald Coast, Destin is the place to rent a boat and get out on the water. Cruise through calm, clear waters that will give you the feeling of being in the Caribbean, stop at white sandy beaches or visit a waterfront restaurant on your boat. Destin is also regarded as an affordable vacation destination, and the prices on boat rentals reflect that. You’ll be able to find a pontoon, yacht, jet ski, or other watercraft for exploring without spending all your budget on a boat day.
Destin at a Glance
Situated in northwestern Florida, this cozy Panhandle city is most well known for its many Gulf Coast beaches and golf courses, plus an exceptionally nice boardwalk at Destin Harbor. And while it may not have the size or caché of some of the larger Florida boating destinations, like Miami, Destin and its charming small-town feel do have a robust boating culture that will allow you to see the city from the water.
4 Hours
The average rental duration for GetMyBoat bookings in Destin — perfect for a long and leisurely cruise.
May to September
May to September rentals account for almost all GetMyBoat trips in Destin, with July being the most popular.
GetMyBoat Destin Statistics
As of
- Active boat listings
- 116
- People sent boating
- 7500+
- Average cost per booking
- $786
- Measuring 16' to 33', these are the most popular boat rental in Destin, followed by pontoons and catamarans.
- Medium Power Boats
Boating Season in Destin
The summer months are the most trafficked, of course, just like with any other Florida destination. And for good reason: the sun is plentiful, the weather is warm (a little too warm, actually, in the peak of summer), and it all combines into a great setup for spending time on the water. However, that also comes with downsides: the water will be much more crowded with boats, in particular.
When are the best times to visit?
The best time of year to visit Destin for boating and outdoor recreation, in our opinion, is either April to May, or September to October, when you’ll have warm weather but get to skip the high-season crowds that flock to the beach in the summer.
It can be considerably cooler during the winter months — too cold to enjoy boating or swimming — and unbearably hot and humid during peak summer, so we prefer to pass on those seasons in Destin.
What’s the water temperature like?
Very warm. In the summer months, the water temperature will hover in the low-to-mid 80ºs, and stay above 70º for most of the year. Even in the coldest months, it only gets down to the 60ºs, which is cold for Florida waters, but still nicely comfortable if you’re used to colder, northern climates.
Current Conditions
Temperature
74 °FWater temp.
69 °FHumidity
76 %Pressure
1020 hPaWind
SE 18.37 f/secVisibility
15 miCloudiness
98 %Local Events
The Annual Seafood Festival
October 7–9, 2022In its 44th year for 2022, this seafood fest kicks off the Destin Fishing Rodeo, which extends the entire month of October.
The Destin Fishing Rodeo
October, AnnuallyA long-running celebration of fishing! The Destin Fishing Rodeo began 1948 as a way to attract tourists — and it’s been working ever since. So well, that the town is now known as a summer tourist destination and “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.”
Annual Cardboard Boat Race
September 11, 2022That’s right — a cardboard boat race. Build a water-worthy boat out of cardboard, and you can race it at this unique event just across the bay, in Niceville, that’s now in its 15th year.
What Types of Boats Can I Rent on Destin?
Destin has plenty of different types of boats to rent: everything from pontoons to luxury motor yachts, sailing catamarans, fishing boats, and jet skis are available. Here’s a bit of information on the average prices, and more, for each different option.
Yachts
$250-500A yacht is a larger sailing or power vessel that can be used for racing or pleasure cruising. They tend to be quite popular in Florida locations
Common Features:
- Up to 8 People
- Interior Cabin
- Exterior Seating
- Captain & Crew
- Bluetooth Speakers
Pontoons
$75-150A flattish boat that relies on two floats for buoyancy. Pontoons are great for casual cruising, sandbar stops, swimming off the sides and for groups partying in Destin. It can be a really budget-friendly boating option.
Common Features:
- Up to 10 People
- Ample Seating
- Bluetooth Speakers
- Bimini Tops
- Outboard Motor
Houseboats
$150-300A houseboat is a boat that has been designed to have all the comforts of home, including bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, and a living area.
Common Features:
- Up to 12 People
- Galley Kitchen
- Interior Cabin
- Sleeping Quarters
- Outdoor Deck Seating
Wake Boats / Ski Boats
$200-400A wake boat (sometimes called a ski boat) is a style of powerboat that is most often used for enjoying water sports like wakeboarding, waterskiing, wakesurfing, kneeboarding, and more.
Common Features:
- Up to 6 People
- Watersports Equipment
- Bluetooth Speakers
- Wakeboard Tower
- Inboard Motor
Sailboats
$150-300A sailboat is a vessel with sails that relies on wind power, though they sometimes have a backup motor. Sailboats come in a huge variety of styles and sizes.
Common Features:
- Up to 6 People
- Mainsail
- Jib
- Skipper & Crew
- Interior Storage Cabin
Catamarans
$150-400A catamaran can be power or sail-powered and is a vessel with two parallel hulls. Catamarans get their stability from the wide beam across the hulls. Catamarans are great party boats and for staying overnight on the water in Destin.
Common Features:
- Up to 10 People
- Captain & Crew
- Interior Cabins
- Head
- Double Hull
Fishing Boats & Charters
$100-200A fishing boat is any vessel that is designed for fishing. They can have flat bottoms for inshore angling or be large charter boats used for deep-sea fishing.
Common Features:
- Up to 6 People
- Bait, Tackle & Fishing Gear
- Cooler with Ice
- FishFinder Technology
- Rod Holders
- Fish Storage Boxes
Jet Skis
$75-140A fast and fun way to explore the local waters, jet skis (or PwC, personal watercraft) come in single-, two-, and even three-seat styles and can be used for all kinds of water sports and tours.
Common Features:
- 1 to 3 People
- Internal Engine
- Electric Ignition
- Handlebar Steering
- Water Jet
Where to Eat, Drink, Stay, and More
Destin has so much to offer — where to even begin planning your itinerary when you’re in town? Here’s a start. We’ve pulled some of our favorite local spots for every aspect of a Destin getaway, like boat-up restaurants to experience the “dock & dine” lifestyle and plenty of beautiful natural coves, bays, beaches, and other scenic boating spots.
Destin Boating Experiences
Reasons To Rent a Boat in Destin
Bachelor Parties
Heading to Florida to celebrate with the guys? A fishing charter or a boat cruise for a bachelor party in Destin is one of the best activities to enjoy. Fill up your cooler with drinks, connect with a local captain, and enjoy hours of cruising in the sun. A captained boat charter is the best way to have the time of your life and provide an unforgettable trip to Destin for the groom. Every best man can appreciate the ease of booking an activity everyone will love.
Bachelorette Parties
Planning a final “sail before the veil” with your favorite group of women? Any maid of honor can appreciate having a personal yacht captain available to help finalize all the details of the perfect boat party day. Put on your matching swimsuits, pack your towels, sunscreen, and sunglasses, and celebrate cruising and stopping at islands and sandbars around Destin for photoshoots and bachelorette party fun. A bachelorette party is one of the best reasons to rent a boat in Florida.
Weddings
Planning to say “I Do” in Destin? Why not enjoy your special day on a boat? A boat wedding provides stunning views and a unique venue for celebrating your special day, and GetMyBoat has so many different yachts and boats to choose from for a wedding, you’re guaranteed to find a style of boat that will suit you and your guest’s needs. Check out our guide to planning a boat wedding for more ideas and information.
Birthday Parties
If you’re coming up on your 30th or 40th birthday and want to party with your favorite people, a boat rental is a great way to celebrate. Bring your cake and balloons onboard (check with the captain first for any restrictions on decorations) and ring in a new year of your life on the water.
Safety, Preparation, and Navigation
What to Bring on Your Boat Rental
Bringing the right stuff can make or break your boat day, so get together a checklist of what you’ll want well ahead of time so that you don’t forget on the day of.
What to bring will depend on your itinerary and weather conditions, but that being said — it’s always a good idea to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, towels, a warm extra layer of clothing (in case it gets chilly), as well as boat shoes. Your boat captain or owner that you rent from can give you more ideas on necessary essentials to bring.
And while most boat captains, owners, and boat rental services should include lifejackets and safety gear, if you have a personal lifejacket that you prefer to wear while enjoying watersports or other activities, it’s a good idea to bring it along.
It might feel like overkill for a casual day on the water, but it’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.
Boating at Night
Visibility is reduced at night, so it’s essential to slow down and be aware of your surroundings. Chartplotters and marine radars are beneficial tools to use in the dark and help you feel more confident when navigating the waters at night. Between the hours of sunset and sunrise or during times of reduced visibility (fog, rain, haze), recreational vessels are required to display navigation lights.
Wake Zones
“Wake” are the waves that form as your watercraft moves through the water. It’s important to be on the lookout for a “no-wake zone” - an area where a vessel must operate at a slow speed that doesn’t create a wake. You can usually identify a no-wake zone by white and orange floating markers or a row of markers.
Emergency Services
Destin Police: Dial 911 from any land or cellular phone for emergencies, or (850) 689-5705 for non-emergencies.
U.S. Coast Guard, Destin Station: Dial (850) 244-7147 for emergencies. If you’re on the water and have a marine VHF radio, you can contact the Coast Guard via Channel 13 (156.65MHz) or 16 (156.8MHz).
Destin Boating FAQs
Boat Rental Basics
What makes GetMyBoat different from other boat rental apps?
GetMyBoat is the world’s largest boat rental and water experience marketplace. We connect more people to boat rental services than any other company. Our mobile app available for iOS and Android makes it possible to find and book boating experiences right on your phone.
You can access thousands of professional boat captains and companies to help plan your perfect day on the water. GetMyBoat’s 24/7 customer service team is always available to help with any step in the booking process. We also enable you to read real user reviews and see photos added from past users, so you can book with confidence that you’re choosing a 5-star boat rental or water experience.
GetMyBoat is committed to taking the lowest booking fees in the industry to save the customer money in pursuit of their perfect day on the water.
What is a boat charter?
A boat charter (vs. a boat rental) includes a professional captain to drive the boat. Frequently, it also includes crew members to provide services to the passengers, like food and beverage, as well as being there to assist the captain. The number of crew members working a boat charter will depend on the size of the vessel and the number of guests onboard.
A boat charter with a licensed, professional captain is the best option for inexperienced boaters or people unfamiliar with the waterways they wish to explore. A captain can provide an amazing experience on a private boat rental and help make the experience safer and more relaxing for boaters.
Can I rent a boat for a week?
While half-day and full-day boat rentals are the most commonly booked trip durations on GetMyBoat, some boat owners and operators allow for multi-day or week-long rentals. Some owners and boat rental services offer discounted rates when you book for more than one day. Ask about weekly deals on rentals if you’re hoping to go boating for more than one day.
Where do I pick up the boat rental?
While it’s common to meet at a marina or public dock, boat captains and owners can often coordinate a drop off at a boat launch or ramp, or another spot if it’s more convenient. Get the exact directions to where you need to meet your boat owner/captain to determine where to pick up the vessel. Send your captain a message to clarify if you’re unsure where to go!
Where do I refuel the boat?
If you need to refuel your boat rental before you return to the dock, ask the boat rental service or owner where they recommend that you refuel. Most waterways will have several fuel stations to choose from, and often the docks that you meet at for your boat rental will also have them. Many captains and owners will take care of this for you, but it’s a good idea to ask what their specific policy is for fueling. Check out local marinas to see if they have a fuel dock.
Can I bring my dog on my boat rental?
Dogs are often welcome on boat rentals and charters — but be sure to ask first! Some boat captains do and some don’t allow pets to come along.
It’s also a good idea to do some research to make sure your pet will be okay with boating if they’ve never been before. Check out our guide for boating with your dog, and if you do decide to bring your dog along, make sure you have the appropriate lifejacket and other safety gear for them!
Services, Costs, & Fees
How much does it cost to rent a boat near me?
GetMyBoat’s mission is to make boating more accessible and affordable. To do this, we’re constantly growing our team of boat owners, captains, and operators around the world to offer a wider range of boat rentals and services at different price points. We want to provide the joys of boating to everyone - regardless of their budget.
Boat rental costs will vary depending on the size and type of boat you wish to rent. Other factors that impact the price of a boat rental include: trip duration, desired route, and itinerary. A boat rental usually costs between $50 and $150/hour but can range up to over $400/hour. Renting a boat for a few hours is usually less expensive than renting a boat for a whole day, but you can sometimes save money on the hourly rate by renting for longer - some owners and rental services offer discounted rates.
There’s no booking obligation at the inquiry stage with GetMyBoat - so you can send an inquiry message to a captain to get a price quote before you commit.
How much is a boat rental near me for a day?
The cost of a boat rental will depend on the duration of your rental, the size of the boat, and the size of your group. Sometimes, specific itineraries (i.e., traveling far distances to get to a famous swimming spot) can add extra costs if they require additional fuel. Typically, a half-day boat rental is 4-hours, and a full-day is 8 hours. Depending on your specific needs, you can expect to pay anywhere from $250 to over $1000 for your boat rental.
How much does it cost to rent a boat on the Destin River?
Boat rentals on the Destin River start at around $100/hour and can range from there to over $500/hour for a larger yacht. You can find boat tours of the Destin River for as affordable as $40/person, but this is generally with a larger public group and not an individual boat rental.
How much does it cost to rent a party boat in Destin?
Renting a boat in Destin starts at $100 an hour for a small powerboat and goes up to $800 an hour for a luxury motor yacht.
How much is a yacht rental in Destin?
Yacht rentals in Destin start at around $250/hour and go up to over $1,000/hour depending on the size of the vessel, capacity, and special features.
How much should I tip the boat captain?
When a captain and crew provide excellent service on the water, leaving a gratuity as a show of appreciation is a common custom. In many places, 10-20% of the rental cost is standard, but this can vary depending on where you are using boat rental services. GetMyBoat does not handle tips or gratuity payments, so please bring cash with you to tip, or many boat captains also have the option of CashApp or Venmo for leaving a tip after your boat charter.
How much does fuel cost for a boat rental?
Sometimes the boat owner/captain you are renting from will include fuel costs in the total fee charged, while others will charge on a usage basis - so depending on how much you use on your boat day. Inquire with the boat owner/captain about the typical fuel costs for your boat rental duration.
Are there additional costs for renting a boat near me?
Costs for your boat rental will vary from owner to owner, so be sure to inquire about any extra costs that might not be covered in the listed price - like fuel, captain’s fees, or additional charges for unique itineraries. Your captain will let you know what to expect if there is any deviation from the price on the boat listing.
Safety, Laws, and Regulations
How old do you have to be to rent a boat?
You must be at least 18 years old to rent with GetMyBoat. To operate a boat without a captain, you will need to ensure you meet the correct boating safety requirements. Boat owners and operators on GetMyBoat sometimes have their own individual age requirements for renting, so inquire with them on their minimum age when you send a booking inquiry.
How old do you have to be to rent a jet ski?
To rent a jet ski independently, you have to be at least 18 years old. Often 16 & 17 year olds can operate a jet ski rental if they have a guardian present to sign a waiver for them. No one under the age of 16 should operate a jet ski without being in direct supervision of a parent or guardian.
How many people can I bring on my boat rental?
The boat's capacity will vary depending on the captain’s licensing rules, size of the boat, style of the boat, and the location you’re renting in. Every boat listing on GetMyBoat indicates the maximum number of people allowed on the boat, so you’ll know before inquiring if it will suit your group’s size.
Do I have to rent a boat with a captain?
Whether or not you rent a boat with a captain will depend on many factors. If you do not have boating experience - it is recommended that you book a boat rental with a captain service for safety. Some locations require that renters have a licensed captain onboard operating the boat at all times. If you do have boating experience and want to rent a boat without a captain, in most locations you are able to rent it bareboat to go on your own. Ask the boat rental service provider for information on renting a boat without a captain and let them know information about your boating experience.
Where should I go with my boat rental?
When you rent a boat, it’s a great idea to do some research on your own or ask the boat owner/company for recommendations if you’re not from the area. With a boat rental, popular places to venture to include sandbars, islands, beaches, coves, and waterfront restaurants. It’s a good idea to inquire with the boat owner for recommendations on what to do and advice on navigating there safely.
Do I need my own insurance to rent a boat?
You do not need your own insurance to rent a boat.
Are lifejackets Included in the price of a boat rental?
Most boat owners and boat rental services will include all lifejackets and safety equipment within the price of your listing. It’s always a good idea to ask where the equipment is located onboard before you leave the dock. Your captain or the owner should give you a briefing at the beginning of your rental experience, so you’re aware of all safety features and equipment on the boat.
Boating Licenses
Can anyone rent a boat in Destin?
To rent a boat in Destin you must be 18 years of age and have completed a boater safety education course. If you have a boating license from another state, this can apply to the requirements to rent a boat in Destin.
Where can I take a boating safety course?
Many boat safety courses are offered online and you can earn a certificate that will qualify you to rent a boat on your own. You can also often take in-person boating lessons which will teach you the necessary hands-on skills to operate a boat independently. Check out BoatEd for more information on local boating safety requirements and courses. You can also check out our Top Boating Safety Tips resources.
Do you need a boat license to rent a boat in Destin?
Boat license rules depend on your age. If you were born after 1988 you will need to complete a boat safety education course and receive a safety identification card. Check out BoatEd for more information on earning a boat safety card so you can rent a boat in Destin. For more information please check out our Boating Laws and Regulations by State Guide and download our Boating Safety Checklist.
Boating Safety Education Identification Card
Yes, You Need a Boater Education Card if You:
- Were born after 1/1/88
- Failed to complete an approved boating safety course in Florida
- Operate a 10+ horsepower boat
- Operate in state or federal waters
- Did not complete an approved boating safety course out of state
- Are not accompanied by a person who is 18+ years old with a Boating Safety Education Identification Card
- Are not accompanied by a person who was born before 1/1/88
No, You Don’t Need a Boater Education Card if You:
- Were born before 1/1/88
- Obtained a Boating Safety Education Identification Card
- Completed an approved boater safety course in another state
- Operate a less than 10 horsepower motor boat
- Operate on a private lake or pond
- Accompanied by a person who is 18+ years old who has a Boating Safety Education Identification Card
- Accompanied by a person who was born before 1/1/88
- Accompanied by a person licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard
How much is a Boater Education Card?
A Boater Education Card will cost anywhere from $0-$50 depending on the type of test you take and if you want your ID card professionally printed.
How long is a Boater Education Card good for?
A Boating Safety Education Identification Card has no expiration date, however, the temporary safety course certificate (proof of online course completion that you can print out and use before the ID card comes) expires after 90 days.
GetMyBoat has 133 listings for boating experiences in Destin with 1,114 reviews.
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