Jacksonville is a fantastic destination for boating enthusiasts in northern Florida. From miles of coastline and gorgeous beaches to exciting fishing opportunities and thrilling watersports, the water experiences in Jacksonville will not disappoint! With your boat rental, you can stop and relax at Jax Beach, cruise down the Intracoastal Waterway, or embark on a fishing excursion in the St. Johns River. Boat rentals in Jacksonville start at just $65/hour, so you can easily find various boating options at affordable rates.

Here are GetMyBoat’s top picks for things to do with a boat rental in Jacksonville

Boat Rentals for Watersports in Jacksonville

Looking to add some excitement to your boat day in Jacksonville? Tubing is guaranteed to be a good time for the entire group! Since the St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida, you will have plenty of space to enjoy being pulled behind the boat at high speeds. Just ask your captain if tubing is an option before booking your trip.

If you’re interested in a low-impact activity on the water, you will love kayaking or paddleboarding! Paddle along the coast of Amelia Island and admire the scenic views as you get a great workout in! Kayak and paddleboard rentals are a great way to experience the water in Jacksonville without breaking the bank.

In need of a thrilling adventure? With GetMyBoat, you can easily rent jet skis for a half-day or full-day and explore the local area with family and friends. Enjoy time on the open water and sightsee as you fly through the waves.

Fishing in Jacksonville

A fishing charter in Jacksonville is a popular option for anglers looking to reel in the perfect catch! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fisherman, the Jacksonville area offers rich opportunities for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. If you’re looking for a challenge, you can charter a boat for some exciting deep-sea fishing! You can expect to catch saltwater fish such as trout, redfish, Spanish Mackerel, sheepshead, tarpon, and flounder.

For anglers who prefer to make a freshwater catch, thanks to the St. Johns River and inland water systems around Jacksonville, you can find plenty of great fishing. Catch fish like speck, largemouth bass, and catfish in the freshwater areas. The Intracoastal Waterway is another phenomenal fishing area filled with marshes, creeks, flats, and wetlands. Be aware that you will need a Florida freshwater and saltwater fishing license, which can be bought online here, or at select sporting goods stores in Jacksonville.

Sailing in Jacksonville

Soak up the sun on a sailing charter and feel the wind on your face as your cruise along the coastline of Jacksonville. For an unforgettable experience, you can book a sailing trip during sunset. Admire the fiery colors in the sky from the comfort of the boat deck. Your captain/ boat crew will provide a relaxing experience, so you can truly enjoy the luxury of sailing.

Weather & Seasons in Jacksonville

The best time to visit Jacksonville is during the shoulder season from March through May, September, and October. You can avoid crowds that form during peak season and still enjoy the sunshine and beach weather during this time.

Popular Pick Up and Drop Off Docks in Jacksonville for Boaters

Fort George Island Marina

The boat launch is off the St. Johns River and just minutes away from Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, and east of downtown Jacksonville. Conveniently located for boaters cruising along the Intracostal Waterway and looking for restaurants, attractions, and activities. Marina amenities include shore power options, ethanol-free gas, diesel fuel, onsite showers and laundry, picnic areas with grills, Wifi, and complimentary bikes.

Address: 9954 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226

Phone: (904) 251-0050

Morningstar Marinas

A great launching point for fishing excursions or cruising along the Intracostal Waterway. Marina amenities include indoor and covered dry storage, wet slips and electric, water and wifi, fueling station, full-service mechanic-site, and a fish cleaning station.

Address: 4852 Ocean Street, Jacksonville, FL 32233

Phone: 904-574-4837

Jacksonville’s Best Spots to Explore by Boat

St. Johns River

The longest river in Florida, spanning 310 miles, the St. Johns River is a fabulous body of water for boating and exploring more of the Intracoastal. It’s known as the “Bass Fishing Capital of the World.” Fishing enthusiasts who cruise the St. Johns River can expect to catch crappie, bluegill, catfish, and other varieties of freshwater fish. There are various watersheds connected to the river that provide space for other forms of water recreation, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming.

The St. Johns River runs right through Jacksonville, so you can rent a boat and explore a ton of area departing right from the city. Make sure you have a compass or navigational system if you venture on your own - it can be easy to get lost on this river, and cell phone service is spotty or nonexistent in certain parts.

Signs and things to watch out for while boating on the St. Johns River:

• Minimum wake zones - make sure to go slow here
• Manatee Zones - go slow and keep an eye out for these protected animals
• Vessel Exclusion Area - indicates an area where boats are not permitted
• Maximum 25 mph and 35 mph Speed Zone - take care not to exceed the speed limit in these areas

Fort George Inlet

A popular boating destination in Jacksonville where you can fish, kayak, canoe, and more. Spend a relaxing day on the water at one of the pristine beaches or sandbars in the area. This is a great place to stop on your boat rental for a fun and relaxing atmosphere with family and friends. The Fort George Sandbar is one of the most popular sandbars in Jacksonville, so you will definitely want to add it to your boat day itinerary.

Intracoastal Waterway in Jacksonville

Scenic waterways through the northeast Florida region surrounded by marshes and wetlands full of birds, dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife. The waterways stretch for over 1,200 miles and are made up of rivers, creeks, sounds, bays, and man-made canals. GetMyBoat lets you explore the waterways via boat, kayak, jet ski, or paddleboard.

Mill Cove

Situated along the St. Johns River is Mill Cove, a go-to spot in Jacksonville for backwater fishing! Mill Cove is also a great place for watersports since the water is usually relatively calm. Ask your captain about adding watersport equipment to your boat rentals, such as wakeboards or water skis.

Restaurants and Bars for Boaters - Dock & Dine in Jacksonville

Julington Creek Fish Camp

This restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere, serving up seafood with a Southern twist. Slurp an oyster off the half-shell or a handcrafted cocktail. Indulge in their crab cakes or opt for a healthy portion of top sirloin if seafood isn’t your thing. There’s something to please every foodie at Julington.

In addition to dock slips for parking your boat, this spot offers outdoor seating and stunning riverfront views.

Address: 12760 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223

Phone: (904) 886-2267

Palm Fish Camp Restaurant

Casual waterfront dining serving freshly caught seafood, cocktails, and beer. Palm Fish Camp buys seafood straight from the local boats in town and operates its own commercial boat to ensure quality and freshness. It’s a great way to really eat local if you love seafood.

Address: 6359 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226

Phone: (904) 240-1872

Dockside Seafood Restaurant Jax Beach

Relaxing atmosphere with waterfront views and outdoor seating. Pull up on your boat and enjoy a meal at Dockside Seafood Restaurant. Share the smoked fish dip appetizer or indulge in Bangin’ Shrimp Taco Feast!

Address: 2510 2nd Ave N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

Phone: (904) 479-3474

River & Post

This is a riverfront restaurant serving seafood and steaks. Relaxing atmosphere with a rooftop lounge and outdoor seating. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and delectable seafood with a beautiful view of the city.

Address: 1000 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204

Phone: (904) 575-2366

Marinas, Gas Stations & Services in Jacksonville

Marina at Ortega Landing

World-class marina, boating community, and yachting lifestyle resort in Jacksonville. Marina amenities include an air-conditioned clubhouse, reliable wifi, courtesy bicycles, on-site laundry facility, picnic areas with gas grills & picnic tables, swimming pool, hot tub, bathrooms and showers, ice machine and bagged ice free of charge, dog-run areas, bike rack, dinghy racks, and so much more!

Address: 4234 Lakeside Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32210

Phone Number: (904) 387-5538

Palm Cove Marina

The largest dry storage facility on Jacksonville’s Intracoastal Waterway. Marina amenities include a pool, competitive fuel prices, travel life, and full marina service. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are happy to help you with all of your boating needs.

Address: 14603 Beach Blvd. Ste. 100, Jacksonville, FL 32250

Phone Number: (904) 821-0992

Fort George Island Marina

Marina is the perfect location for anyone traveling along the Intracoastal Waterway and looking for something near attractions, restaurants, and activities. Fort George Island Marina can accommodate vessels up to 58ft LOA with beams of 30’ and drafts of up to 27’. Marina amenities include shore power options, a fuel station, onsite showers and laundry, a picnic area with grills, provisions, wifi, and complimentary bikes. The marina also offers drop-in and haul-out, pump-out services, a travel lift, and an expansive dry storage rack.

Address: 9954 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226

Phone Number: (904) 251-0050

Boating Safety and Licenses in Jacksonville

Florida 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

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 motorboat
• 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

Top Destinations Nearby Jacksonville

St. Augustine

A beautiful city on the northeast coast of Florida, known for its historic charm, gorgeous beaches, and art and culture. Fun fact, St. Augustine is said to be the oldest city in the United States. GetMyBoat offers a variety of rentals and charters, including powerboats, pontoons, jet skis, and kayaks in the St. Augustine area. We recommend relaxing at Lael Shell Beach Sandbar and stopping at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina to explore the city on foot.

Fernandina Beach

Just a 45-minute drive from Jacksonville, sits Fernandina Beach, a stunning beach-front town situated on Amelia Island. Dip your toes in the water at one of the pristine beaches, enjoy the nature that Fernandina Beach has to offer with a kayak or paddleboard rental, or book a sunset sail on a cruising catamaran charter. Be sure to cruise to Cumberland Island National Seashore to explore maritime forests and spot wild horses roaming along the beaches.

Amelia Island

Stretching for 13 miles along the Florida coastline is Amelia Island, the perfect day trip from Jacksonville! Book a sailing charter to enjoy the warm weather and sightsee from the water. Wildlife tours are another popular option on Amelia Island. Embark on an aquatic adventure and be on the lookout for dolphins, manatees, otters, ospreys, eagles, pelicans, and so much more!

We recommend a pit stop to the George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier State Park - a mile-long bridge that is a prime location for fishing. Even if you’re not big into fishing, you can admire the beauty and wildlife surrounding the state park. For those who do not have boating experience, captained charters are available for a stress-free day of enjoying the open waters.

Jacksonville Boat Rental FAQs

How much does it cost to rent a boat Jacksonville FL?

Boat rental prices in Jacksonville vary depending on the type of boat you’re interested in. You can find rentals starting as low as $80/hr! Luxurious yacht rentals in Jacksonville FL start at $148/hr.

Do you need a boating license to rent a boat in Florida?

Boat license rules in Florida and Jacksonville depend on your age. You must be 25 years or older and will need to complete a boat safety education course and receive a safety identification card. If you’re looking to rent a captained boat charter you must be 18 years old.

Is there an app for boat rentals?

Yes, GetMyBoat is an app that allows you to easily book boat rentals and other water experiences around the world! It’s simple, just search GetMyBoat by the location you wish to visit, filter the boats based on type and group size, and submit a rental inquiry once you find a boat you like. Boat owners will respond with a custom offer and you can confirm and pay for the rental all through the website.