The Best Boat Rentals in Fort Myers

Most half‑day powerboat rentals around Fort Myers run about $200–$400 for smaller pontoons or deck boats and $350–$650 for full days. Center consoles and larger tritoons typically range from about $450–$900 per day, while captained cruisers and yachts can start around $1,200–$3,500 for a half day and go up from there. Rates usually include required safety gear, lines, anchor, basic navigation, and a safety briefing. Taxes, fuel, captain’s fee (if added), and gratuity are typically extra, and security deposits may apply. Booking earlier for weekends and holidays helps you lock the best price.

You’ll find a broad mix to match your group and itinerary, including pontoons and tritoons for sandbar hopping, deck boats and bowriders for sightseeing and beach stops, center consoles for fishing and island runs, sailing monohulls and catamarans, and larger cruisers or motor yachts for parties and sunset charters. If you’re hosting a celebration, ask about spacious layouts, shade, and add‑ons like floating mats.

If you want a hands‑off day, book with a licensed captain—they handle navigation, docking, and route planning so you can focus on guests. Self‑operated rentals work well if you have recent boating experience and meet Florida’s boater education rules; they’re usually more budget‑friendly but require an adult operator and comfort with local channels, tides, and traffic. Many planners pick a captain for special occasions, larger groups, or peak weekends.

Popular launch points include Salty Sam’s Marina on San Carlos Island by the Matanzas Pass Bridge, Port Sanibel Marina near the Sanibel Causeway, and Moss Marina at the north end of Fort Myers Beach. You’ll also see departures from the boat ramp at Lovers Key State Park (Estero Bay) and from Horton Park & Boat Ramp on the Caloosahatchee River in Cape Coral. The Punta Rassa Boat Ramp by the causeway has been under restoration with a target reopening in late summer to early fall 2025; check status when you book.

Routes commonly weave through Estero Bay’s mangrove islands and seagrass flats, with frequent dolphin sightings and seasonal manatees in calmer, warmer waters. Many trips pass the Sanibel Causeway islands, Sanibel Lighthouse, Lovers Key’s beaches, and the protected waters of Pine Island Sound. On longer days, skippers often add shelling stops on barrier‑island beaches or a cruise past the River District skyline on the Caloosahatchee at sunset.

Florida requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 to complete an approved boater‑safety course and carry a Boating Safety Education ID Card to operate a motorized vessel of 10 hp or more. Visitors can take a short online exam to get a 90‑day temporary certificate before their rental. Bring a government‑issued photo ID; individual rental companies may set additional age or experience requirements.

Yes—families are welcome. Rentals include U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all ages, and operators provide a safety briefing before departure. Florida law requires children under 6 to wear a life jacket at all times on vessels under 26 feet while underway, so plan sizes accordingly when you book and request child‑sized vests. Many captained boats also have extra shade and ladders to make swim stops easy for younger guests.

Most boats allow coolers with your own snacks, water, and beverages. Glass is often discouraged or restricted; cans and reusable bottles are preferred. If you’re self‑driving, designate a sober operator—alcohol laws apply on the water. For celebrations, many captains can advise on simple catering, ice, and storage space, and some boats have small fridges or plenty of cooler room.

Pets are accepted on many boats at the owner’s discretion, often with a small cleaning fee. Ask in advance, bring a well‑fitting canine life jacket, and pack fresh water and a towel to rinse off after sandbar stops. Be mindful around wildlife zones and bird rookeries, and keep pets leashed at busy docks and ramps.

Summer brings quick afternoon thunderstorms and higher humidity, while June–November is hurricane season. Morning departures are typically calmer and cooler. If conditions turn unsafe, operators will reschedule or refund per their policy. At times, Gulf beaches may experience red tide; when that happens, skippers can often shift to bay routes where air and water quality may be better, or help you pick a new date.

Boating is year‑round here. Peak season runs roughly February through May and again in October–December for clear skies and milder temps. Holiday weekends—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—are the busiest on the water; book early and plan for crowds. Signature local events include February’s Edison Festival of Light in the River District and the Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival in March, both of which increase demand. Weekdays are quieter than weekends, and mornings are smoother than late afternoons; sunset cruises are popular but fill fast.

Absolutely. Choose a boat with the right passenger capacity, shade, and an onboard head if you want extra comfort. Captained charters remove all stress for hosts and are ideal for decorating light, playing a playlist, and timing a sunset. Confirm food and beverage rules, bring ice and paper goods, and plan 15–20% gratuity for the crew when service exceeds expectations.

Yes—popular sandbar stops include the Sanibel Causeway islands and Picnic Island in Pine Island Sound. Cayo Costa State Park’s gulf‑side beach is open for day use to visitors arriving by private boat or charter; there are limited services on the island, so bring water, sun protection, and pack out all trash. Your captain can advise on tides, anchoring spots, and wildlife‑friendly practices.