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Key Largo, Florida Boating Guide
How does that song go again? Key Largo, Montego, baby why don’t we go… Ok, sorry if now you have The Beach Boys stuck in your head. It will be worth it, though, we promise. While Kokomo is not a real place, Key Largo certainly is, and it’s a top destination in Florida for a boat rental.
The first stop in any Florida Keys road trip or boat trip, Key Largo is an incredible boating destination. Close to the Everglades and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, there are many great beaches in Key Largo to explore. Choose from some of the top beaches in the area to relax and take in all the beauty the Keys has to offer.
Here are GetMyBoat’s Top Picks for Boating in Key Largo.
Best Things to Do in Key Largo
Rent or Charter a Boat in Key Largo
A boat rental or charter is an essential part of any visit to Key Largo. Find pontoon rentals, yacht rentals, houseboat rentals, and catamaran charters, there are so many vessels to choose from to enjoy a visit to Key Largo. With prices for boat rentals starting at $350 for a whole day, you can cruise with your whole group to the best spots around and enjoy the best of the boat life in Key Largo.
With GetMyBoat, you can rent or charter a boat for a day of cruising, swimming, fishing, sunbathing, visiting sandbars, dolphin-watching, and so much more! Whether you’re looking to slow down and enjoy island time or go on a water adventure, Key Largo has it all. We recommend taking a boat ride during sunset where you can enjoy a picnic at sea. There’s no better way to end the day than relaxing on a boat during golden hour.
Snorkeling or Diving Tour in Key Largo
No visit to Key Largo is complete without snorkeling. Embark on an underwater adventure in Key Largo, where you can witness colorful reefs, centuries-old shipwrecks, and local marine life. Some of the best snorkel and dive sites are Mosquito Bank, Molasses Reef, Spiegel Grove, White Banks Dry Rocks Reef, Benwood Wreck, and Christ of the Abyss. The Florida Keys is home to the only living coral reef in the United States.
Don’t miss your chance to explore the magical wonders that lie beneath the surface. Book a snorkeling tour in Key Largo.
Fishing Trips in Key Largo
Calling all anglers - a fishing trip in Key Largo is a must-do! Bareboat rentals and full-service fishing charters are available in Key Largo, depending on what you prefer. If you are a novice fisherman, book a fishing charter with a local boat captain and fishing guide to handle all the little details and provide the necessary equipment. They will know the best spots to make an unforgettable catch that you can brag about for months to come.
Fishing trip lengths range from a couple of hours to a full day of fishing. Whether you’re looking for an off-shore or deep-sea fishing excursion, GetMyBoat has you covered. You can expect to catch gamefish like redfish, snook, trout, yellowtail snapper, tarpon, wahoo, marlin, tuna, and more competitive trophy catches.
Best Time to Visit Key Largo
The best time to visit Key Largo is from April to June or November - March. During these months, the climate is dry and warm, so you can enjoy outdoor activities in the sunshine. September- October is hurricane season and when temperatures reach 90+ degrees.
Popular Docks in Key Largo
Gilbert’s Resort Boat Ramp
This boat launch is at the marina part of Gilbert’s Resort and is a great place to launch your boat. Some of the features include:
- Paved Ramp
- Ramp Use Fee
- Parking Available
- Non-ethanol gas and diesel fuel are available
- Operates during daylight hours
Caribbean Club Boat Ramp
Not only is the Caribbean Club a good place to launch your boat, but it’s also is a unique tourist attraction. It’s the filming location of the 1948 movie Key Largo, starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall.
- On the Blackwater Sound
- $10 vessel fee
- $20/Day Parking Fee
- No sailboat launches
Places of Interest for Boating in Key Largo
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
This underwater playground needs to be at the top of your itinerary while visiting Key Largo. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was established in 1963 and spans over 70 nautical miles. The state park consists of reefs, mangroves, swamps, and seagrass beds. For a truly immersive experience, we recommend snorkeling or diving at this site, but kayaking and paddleboarding are fun alternatives too. Fun fact, this was the very first underwater sea park in the United States.
Seven-Mile Bridge
The iconic seven-mile bridge connects the Middle Keys to the Lower Keys. The bridge provides a breathtaking view and is a hot spot for fishing, especially tarpon fishing. Fun fact, the seven-mile bridge was one of the longest bridges in existence when it was built back in 1982.
Spiegel Grove
For those who love scuba-diving, Spiegel Grove is a diving site you do not want to miss! The USS Spiegel Grove, located 6 miles off the Atlantic side of the island, is an artificial reef that was intentionally sunk back in 2002. Explore the wreck and witness an abundance of colorful coral and fish that lie 65 feet below the surface.
Molasses Reef
The most popular reef in the Upper Keys is Molasses Grove - located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Shallow sections are found within the reef that is perfect for snorkeling too. Vibrant coral lines the reef and is home to colorful fish, eels, sharks, and stingrays, and more.
Restaurants & Bars for Boaters
The Buzzard’s Roost Restaurant
This waterfront seafood restaurant is a part of Garden Cove Marina, making it easy to visit when you’re traveling by boat. Sip on a cocktail from the tiki bar, listen to live music, eat delicious food and check out the views of the cove at Buzzard’s Roost.
Address: 21 Garden Cove Drive Key Largo, FL 33037
Snapper’s Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar
A casual, waterfront seafood experience, this restaurant is a great destination to enjoy while visiting Key Largo. See a tarpon feeding or listen to live music. Indulge in some oysters, a tropical cocktail, or a seafood platter. It’s all accessible by water - park your boat at the dock slip and enjoy lunch at Snappers.
Address: 139 Seaside Ave, Key Largo, FL 33037
Snook's Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki
You’ll be sure to find a seat at this massive waterfront restaurant, with a huge patio in the fresh air of Key Largo. Enjoy some seafood, the “Sweetwater” band on Sundays, or even host a special event at Snooks.
Address: 99470 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
Skipper’s Dockside
Just as its name suggests, Skipper’s is a place to go by boat to refuel your stomach after a long day on the water. This vintage boathouse that was transformed into waterfront dining provides amazing food and cocktails, and even organizes fishing tournaments.
Address: 528 Caribbean Dr, Key Largo, FL 33037
Popular Activities For Boaters in Key Largo
Sandbars around Key Largo
Want to check out some unique destinations around Key Largo with your boat? Here are a few options and ideas on places to go.
Nest KeyLocated on the Bay Side of Key Largo, this spot offers gorgeous blue waters that are perfect for snorkeling. It can be busy here on the weekends, so take care to watch for other boats if you’re jumping overboard and swimming around Nest Key.
Rodriguez KeyOn the ocean side of Key Largo sits Rodriguez Key, a stunning secret gem of Florida and the perfect spot for dropping anchor off your boat for a few hours. Jump in for a swim, cruise around the island, and relax on Rodriguez Key.
Everglades National Park
For all of the nature lovers out there, the Everglades will not disappoint! The best way to see the alligators and other wildlife of the Everglades is on a boat tour once you enter the national park. It’s about a 30-40 minute drive from Key Largo to the park entrance, where you can book a guided boat tour. You can also reach the Everglades by boat from Key Largo since the park technically starts in the Blackwater Sound, which is bayside of Key Largo. You must be super careful if you boat here on your own, as there are many shallow areas, mangroves, manatees, and other protected areas that you do not want to accidentally damage with your boat.
Watersports in Key Largo
Want to have an adrenaline-filled adventure in Key Largo? Rent a jet ski and zoom around the waves, exploring the beautiful beaches and coastal views. If you want to stay on the bayside, take your jet ski around the Blackwater Sound and Buttonwood Sound.
Would you rather explore Key Largo powered by your own strength on the water? Kayak rentals and kayaking tours are excellent options for getting exercise while exploring the beauty of the keys. Kayaking is a great budget-friendly activity, with prices starting as low as $75 for a kayak and snorkeling adventure.
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving in Key Largo
If you don’t go snorkeling in Key Largo, you’re missing out on some of the best underwater views in all of the United States. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was established in 1963 and was the first underwater state park in the United States.
Fishing in Key Largo
Key Largo is an ideal destination to begin your fishing adventures in the Florida Keys. From renting a fishing boat and cruising for offshore adventures, or booking yourself a seat on an all-inclusive fishing charter, you can find the angling experience of a lifetime in Key Largo.
Want to learn how to spearfish? Spearfishing trips in Key Largo will take you out on an adventure. Climb aboard a boat and cruise out into medium-depth waters with a professional guide to teach you the tricks and tactics of this underwater hunting strategy. Spearfishing will have you targeting snapper and groupers and if you are successful - plan on having fish for dinner!
If you're starting your south Florida vacation in Miami before you head south to Key Largo, check out our Miami Boating Guide for all the information you could possibly need about boating around Miami!
Marinas, Fuel Stations, Services in Key Largo
Garden Cove Marina
Home of the Buzzard’s Roost restaurant where the chef will “cook your catch” this marina has the basics for any boater. It’s located on the ocean side of Key Largo, making it an easy spot to cruise into the Atlantic from.
- Gas
- Bait
- Wet Storage
- Dry Storage
- Boat on Trailer Storage
Key Largo Harbor Marina
Need repairs or other services on your boat while in Key Largo? This spot has you covered. It’s a boatyard and marina with a helpful staff of mechanics and technicians to repair and take care of all your boat needs.
- Full-Service Marina
- Daily, Weekly, & Monthly Storage
- Wash & Wax
- Boat Detailing
- Engine Repair
- Indoor & Outdoor Storage
- Electronics Installation.
Mangrove Marina
Mangrove is the largest full-service marina in the upper keys, and it offers a lot of special amenities for boating enthusiasts visiting Key Largo.
- Wet slips for liveaboard
- Racks & yard storage
- Houseboats for lodging
Top Destinations Nearby
How much is it to rent a boat in Key Largo?
Prices for boat rentals in Key Largo vary depending on the type of boat and duration of the rental. A modest powerboat rental starts at $99/hour, and the prices can go up to over $1000/hour for a luxury yacht charter in Key Largo.
When is the best time to visit Key Largo?
The best time of year to visit Key Largo is from April to June or November through mid-December. This way you can avoid hurricane season and still have warm and sunny weather for your trip to Key Largo.
What is the water temperature in Key Largo?
The water temperature in Key Largo is warm year-round, with the high in the summertime falling around 87℉ and the low in the winter at 69℉.
Key Largo Reviews
- DC
Desiree
Mako Center Console with 200 hp 4 stroke Rental in Key Largo, Florida
Jay was great. Worked with us when we had a last minute schedule problem and was available when we returned early from our booking. He was thorough on the details of where everything was on the boat. We had a great time.
- AC
Aaron
#1 charter in key largo . Party’s , cruising , sunset tours , sandbars …….
Our family had a great time on Anthony’s boat. His vessel is well cared for, really clean, and accurately described on his listing. We couldn’t have asked for a better outing in the keys. We look forward to returning to Florida and enjoying a day out on Anthony’s yacht.
- JG
Jessica
#1 charter in key largo . Party’s , cruising , sunset tours , sandbars …….
Captain Anthony’s ad is exactly what you will see - beautiful and clean. Great amenities. He will also help you choose the best places to see if you’re not familiar with the area. First mate Ernie was equally as gracious to our family. Highly recommend!
- BD
Bonnie
#1 charter in key largo . Party’s , cruising , sunset tours , sandbars …….
Great day with Captain Anthony! Everything was clean, relaxing, and fun! Capt. Anthony was congenial and accommodating to our family including our two small kids. I will certainly be calling again next time I’m in the area, and we highly recommend!
- CL
Craig
All Aboard the 22ft Tritoon; serving Key Largo!
My wife and I hired Steve for a two hour cruise around Key Largo to celebrate my wife's birthday. The trip was awesome and my wife was very pleased and happy. Steve is an excellent host and captain and was very informative about the area. He also is very personable and we enjoyed talking with him during the trip. We definitely recommend Steve for any type of charter he offers. Also, his fees are very reasonable.
- JC
Julieta
All Aboard the 22ft Tritoon; serving Key Largo!
We went on a boat ride recently, and I must say that Steve, our driver, did an excellent job. He was very skilled and knowledgeable about the waterways, and made our trip both enjoyable and safe. Steven was very friendly and accommodating, and even offered to take us to some hidden spots that we wouldn't have discovered otherwise. Overall, we had an amazing time on the boat ride, and Steve's professionalism and expertise certainly added to the experience. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a great boat ride!
The Key Largo Boating Guide 2023
In This Guide
The GetMyBoat Guide to Key Largo
How does that song go again? Key Largo, Montego, baby why don’t we go… Ok, sorry if now you have The Beach Boys stuck in your head. It will be worth it though, we promise. While Kokomo is not a real place, Key Largo certainly is, and it’s a top destination in Florida for a boat rental.
Key Largo at a Glance
The first stop in any Florida Keys road trip or boat trip, Key Largo is an incredible boating destination. Close to the Everglades and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, there are so many wonders of the world to experience right here.
And while we’re biased, we think that a boat rental or charter is an essential part of any visit to Key Largo. Find pontoon rentals, yacht rentals, houseboat rentals, and catamaran charters — there are so many vessels to choose from to enjoy a visit to Key Largo for a day of cruising, swimming, fishing, sunbathing, visiting sandbars, dolphin-watching, and so much more!
Whether you’re looking to slow down and enjoy island time or go on a water adventure, Key Largo has it all. We recommend taking a boat ride during sunset where you can enjoy a picnic at sea. There’s no better way to end the day than relaxing on a boat during golden hour.
4 Hours
The average rental duration for GetMyBoat bookings in Key Largo — perfect for a long and leisurely cruise around the shore.
March to July
March to July rentals account for 66% of all GetMyBoat trips in Key Largo, though the weather allows for year-round boating.
GetMyBoat Key Largo Statistics
As of
- Most popular month
- April
- Average group size
- 5 people
- Average cost per booking
- $500 USD
- Measuring 16' to 33', these are the most popular boat rental in Key Largo, followed by jet skis and catamarans
- Medium Power Boats
Boating Season in Key Largo
It’s year-round! The consistently warm temperatures and ample sunshine make it possible to rent a boat at virtually any time of year. Hurricane season runs from June to November, but unless you see a hurricane in the forecast, chances are that it’s still a good time to rent a boat.
When are the best times to visit?
There’s never a bad time, really. The summer will have the most going on, of course, but the winter months are actually quite nice. Florida natives will consider it “cold” during that time, but if you’re visiting from a truly cold part of the country, the high 60º to low 70º temperatures will feel downright balmy, and you won’t have the sticky humidity of the summer months.
We like going between March and May, when you’ll get both warm temperatures and off-peak rates. And since the summer can be very hot and humid, be prepared to spend time in the water if you’re visiting between June and September.
What’s the water temperature like?
In a word: perfect. The water temperature is always comfortably warm, in a consistent range between 71ºF–79ºF (or 22ºC–26ºC), with July typically being the warmest month for the water.
Current Conditions
Temperature
84 °FWater temp.
87 °FHumidity
74 %Pressure
1013 hPaWind
SE 13.75 f/secVisibility
15 miCloudiness
70 %Local Events
Fireworks on Blackwater Sound
4th of JulyEnjoy the holiday with a spectacular fireworks display right over the water
Fishing Tournaments
Year-roundFace off against some friendly fishing competition at one of several fishing tournaments held throughout the year
Key Largo Boat Parade
December 10, 2022A holiday celebration of boating takes to the waters of Key Largo in this annual event
What Types of Boats Can I Rent in Key Largo?
Key Largo has many different types of boats to rent. Everything from pontoons to luxury motor yachts, sailing catamarans, fishing boats, and jet skis are available to rent for enjoying Key Largo on the water.
Here’s more information on the average prices for different types of boat rentals in Key Largo and what you can expect to pay for boating experiences.
Yachts
$250-500A yacht is a larger sailing or power vessel that can be used for racing or pleasure cruising. Yacht rentals are one of the more popular choices for boating in Key Largo.
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 Key Largo. 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 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 and/or sometimes also has 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 Key Largo.
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
Key Largo 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 Key Largo getaway, like boat-up restaurants to experience the “dock & dine” lifestyle. And that’s to say nothing of all the amazing boating destinations, spread all throughout the surrounding waters.
Local Boating Services
A note: if you’re renting a boat through GetMyBoat, please contact the boat owner before utilizing any of the following services. They may have a preferred provider or the services may be covered through insurance or within your rental agreement.
Marinas & Boat Services
Garden Cove Marina
Home of the Buzzard’s Roost restaurant where the chef will “cook your catch” this marina has the basics for any boater. It’s located on the ocean side of Key Largo, making it an easy spot to cruise into the Atlantic from.
- Gas
- Bait
- Wet Storage
- Dry Storage
- Boat on Trailer Storage
21 Garden Cove Dr, Key Largo, FL 33037 (305) 451-4694
Key Largo Harbor Marina
Need repairs or other services on your boat while in Key Largo? This spot has you covered. It’s a boatyard and marina with a helpful staff of mechanics and technicians to repair and take care of all your boat needs.
- Full-Service Marina
- Daily, Weekly, & Monthly Storage
- Wash & Wax
- Boat Detailing
- Engine Repair
- Indoor & Outdoor Storage
- Electronics Installation
400 Ocean Dr, Key Largo, FL 33037 (786) 322-4596
Mangrove Marina
Mangrove is the largest full-service marina in the upper keys, and it offers a lot of special amenities for boating enthusiasts visiting Key Largo.
- Wet slips for liveaboard
- Racks & yard storage
- Houseboats for lodging
200 Florida Ave, Tavernier, FL 33070 (305) 852-8380
Reasons To Rent a Boat in Key Largo
Are you visiting Key Largo for a special occasion? Make the party planning easy and book a party boat for an unforgettable celebration. A captained boat charter makes a Key Largo Booze Cruise much safer — so hire a professional to keep your group safe while having a ton of fun on the water.
Bachelor Parties
Heading to Key Largo to celebrate with the guys? A boat charter for a bachelor party in Key Largo 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 Key Largo 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 Key Largo for photoshoots and bachelorette party fun. For more info and ideas, check out our bachelorette boat party guide.
Weddings
Planning to say “I Do” in Key Largo? Key Largo is a great destination for a wedding onboard a boat or yacht, and there are 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
Key Largo is the ultimate destination for a milestone birthday celebration. If you’re coming up on your 30th or 40th birthday and want to party with your favorite people in South Florida, a boat rental in Key Largo for a day is a must. 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
Key Largo Police: Dial 911 from any Key Largo land or cellular phone for emergencies, or (305) 292-7000 for non-emergencies.
U.S. Coast Guard, Key West Sector: Dial (305) 295-9865 for emergencies or (304) 433-3352 to reach the incident command post for non-emergencies.
Key Largo Boat Rental FAQ
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 Key Largo River?
Boat rentals on the Key Largo 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 Key Largo 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 Key Largo?
Renting a boat in Key Largo 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 Key Largo?
Yacht rentals in Key Largo 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 Key Largo?
To rent a boat in Key Largo 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 Key Largo.
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 Key Largo?
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 Key Largo. 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 your state
- 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 21 listings for boating experiences in Key Largo with 87 reviews.
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