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Browse Boat Rentals in Sarasota, Florida.
Learn more about boating in SarasotaPage 1 of 3 (54 listings)
Sarasota, Florida, offers gorgeous beaches and amazing boating in its bays and waterways. Cruise Little Sarasota Bay, explore Anna Maria Island, Siesta Key, Manasota Key, or Longboat Key with ease on a boat rental from Sarasota. Snorkel in the calm blue waters, bring your kids with and maybe get lucky and spot some dolphins!
Here are GetMyBoat’s top picks for things to do with a boat rental in Sarasota:
Sarasota Boat Rentals & Charters
Visiting Sarasota for a vacation, or are you a local looking to get on the water? Choose from dozens of boat rentals available here for your next day on the water. Go swimming off your boat in the calm waters of Little Sarasota Bay or cruise over to Anna Maria Island for a fantastic day trip. Admire luxurious waterfront homes, remarkable architecture, and boat docks from the comfort of your own personal charter. You can either enjoy fishing off your boat rental or book a full-service deep-sea fishing charter with a local guide and captain.
Beautiful weather and calm water make Sarasota one of the top boating destinations in the United States. With apps like GetMyBoat, boating is more accessible and affordable than many people think. In fact, in Sarasota powerboat and pontoon rentals start as low as $75/hour, so you can get out on the water without breaking the bank.
Stopping at a sandbar is one of the most popular activities for boaters cruising along the Florida coast. Anchor in shallow water, cool off from the heat and relax with family and friends. Some of the sandbars allow pets, so you can bring your furry friend along for a fun-filled day on the water. Here’s a list of our favorite sandbars in Sarasota!
- Sharker’s Island
- Big Pass
- Sand Dollar Island
- Jewfish Key Sandbar
Looking for a unique water experience in Sarasota? Why not try snorkeling through a seagrass meadow? These meadows are filled with flowering plants that have adapted to live undersea and support marine animals. If you’re lucky, you may see a manatee or sea turtle feeding on the seagrass! Don’t miss your chance to see this fascinating underwater ecosystem up close and personal.
Sarasota Fishing Charters
A fishing charter in Sarasota is the perfect way to spend your day on the water. You can sit back and relax while expert crew members take care of the navigation and logistics of the trip. Most charters include all of the fishing equipment you need, such as coolers, ice, fishing rods, rod holders, bait, tackle, etc. You can expect to catch fish like trout, snook, redfish, sheepshead, flounder, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, ladyfish, and more!
If you plan on fishing in Sarasota Bay, the Middle Grounds is the spot to be. The Middle Grounds spread over a large area of the channel leading to New Pass.
Sarasota Jet Ski Rentals
Want to have an adrenaline-filled adventure in Sarasota? Rent a jet-ski for a thrilling ride through the waves, stopping at beaches and sandbars along the way. The first step to making unforgettable memories on the water in Sarasota is to rent a pair of Yamaha jet skis for you and your travel companions.
Sarasota Weather & Seasons
The best time of year to visit Sarasota is from March to May and September to November when you’ll have warm weather, but skip the peak season crowds and prices.
Boat Launches & Docks in Sarasota
Centennial Park
This dog-friendly park has a 3 double lane boat launch and parking for boaters. Launch here and cruise out into Sarasota Bay.
Address: 1059 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Ken Thompson Park
This is a six-lane, concrete boat launch with four docks. There are 50 parking spaces and no launch fee.
Address: 1700 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236
Turtle Beach
This spot sits on the south side of Siesta Key and has two ramps. One is a bit steep, it’s a popular kayak launch spot. The park is open from 6 AM to 10 PM, and the launch is free to use. It will give boaters access to Little Sarasota Bay.
Address: 8701 Blind Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Blackburn Point Park
This park and boat launch point is in Osprey on the south side of Little Sarasota Bay. It’s a newer boat ramp. It also offers a canoe launch, fishing pier, hiking trails, a pet-friendly park, and restrooms.
Address: 491-799 Blackburn Point Rd, Osprey, FL 34229
Coquina Beach
This launch is located in Bradenton Beach, just north of Longboat Pass. It offers ample parking and a large ramp to launch boats. There are great fishing spots in the North Sarasota Bay and Jewfish Key right by the launch.
Address: 1465 Gulf Dr. S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Places of Interest Near Sarasota
Turtle Beach
This lovely beach is located on the south end of Siesta Key and is home to a sea turtle nesting habitat. Turtle Beach has one of the largest populations of loggerhead turtles along with a good number of green turtles too. Turtle Beach is beloved by many because it’s quiet and less crowded than the other beaches on Siesta Keys. Be sure to add this stop to your travel itinerary for Sarasota.
If you’re planning to stay in Siesta Keys overnight you should consider camping at Turtle Beach Campground, just steps away from the beach! The campground has 39 RV and tent sites with full hookups, free wifi, restrooms, and hot showers. Online reservations are available and encouraged.
Siesta Keys Beach
Siesta Keys Beach is just a short 20-minute drive away from Sarasota and a popular destination along the Gulf Coast. This unique public beach is filled with quartz crystal powdery white sand and is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, swimming, and more! Be sure to check out the tide pools or try snorkeling while you’re visiting.
Sarasota Bay
Sarasota Bay is a lagoon located off the central west coast of Florida. The bay is the perfect destination to unwind and relax in nature. The outdoor activities are endless - visit a sandbar, snorkel in a seagrass meadow, relax on an isolated beach, or go fishing. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly tour, you can kayak through shady mangroves, searching for manatees.
South Lido Nature Park
Popular amongst tourists, South Lido Nature Park is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Enjoy a beach day with your loved ones, adventure out on the water via kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, or take a stroll through one of the natural trails in the park.
Dock & Dine in Sarasota - Waterfront Restaurants for Boaters
Marina Jacks
This restaurant has it all! Enjoy delicious seafood, an outdoor raw bar, and a piano bar indoors for live music. Indulge in a stuffed Maine Lobster or a sip a cocktail and watch the sunset. Pull up in your boat and eat a meal at Marina Jacks when visiting Sarasota.
Address: 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236
The Boatyard Waterfront Bar and Grill
For a casual but vibrant and fun dining experience, visit the Boatyard. It’s a pierside restaurant offering seafood & cocktails right on a marina. Listen to the live music while overlooking the boats cruising on the waterfront, enjoy some peel-and-eat shrimp or fish tacos while drinking a tropical cocktail. Every seat has a great view at the Boatyard Waterfront Bar and Grill.
Address: 1500 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34231
O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill
Drink a beer and eat some fried shrimp while enjoying beachfront views and seating. O’Learys offers a variety of both seafood and American cuisine, a full bar, and live music. You can enjoy your meal right on the beach with their outdoor seating options.
Address: 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
Marinas, Gas Stations & Services in Sarasota
Safe Harbor Siesta Key
One-stop shop for all of your boating needs in Sarasota. Safe Harbor offers dry storage, marine services, a fuel dock, ship store, and waterside restaurant, Spearfish Grill, attached to the marina. Safe Harbor can help boaters of all experiences and needs in Sarasota.
Address: 1265 Old Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Hidden Harbor Marina
This small marina is in a convenient location and offers both indoor and outdoor dry storage, concierge service, and fuel service of ValvTect gasoline for marine engines.
Address: 7700 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
Sara Bay Marina
This is a full-service facility with wet slips and dry storage. Sara Bay offers boat maintenance services and a full parts department, as well as boat sales.
Address: 7040 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
Top Destinations Nearby Sarasota
Venice
Just a 35-minute drive away from Sarasota is Venice, Florida. Spend a relaxing day at Venice Beach, go snorkeling or diving at the off-shore coral reef, or visit Caspersen Beach, where you can find an abundance of shark teeth. Catch an iconic sunset at Venice Fishing Pier for the perfect way to close out the day.
Bradenton Beach
Bradenton Beach is the southernmost city on Anna Maria Island and is well-known for its historic fishing piers, fresh seafood, and sugary sand beaches. Embark on a fishing charter, dine at a waterfront restaurant, or spend the day cruising along the Gulf Coast on a boat rental.
Top Destinations Nearby
How much does it cost to rent a boat in Sarasota?
Boat rentals in Sarasota cost between $65/hour for a budget powerboat and can go up in price to $2,000/day for a luxury yacht charter. Pontoon rentals are popular in Sarasota and cost around $85/hour.
How is the fishing in Sarasota?
Fishing is a great activity to try in Sarasota. Fishing charters and fishing boat rentals cost between $200 and $2000 per day, with lots of different options depending on the fishing experience you’re looking for in Sarasota.
Do I need a license to captain a boat in Sarasota, Fl?
Yes, you need a license to captain a boat in Sarasota, FL if the boat has a motor of 10 horsepower or more. Florida law requires anyone born after January 1, 1988, to have a Boater Education Card, also known as a Florida Boating License, to operate a boat with a motor of 10 horsepower or more. The card can be obtained by completing an approved boating safety course, which covers topics such as boating laws, safety equipment, navigation, and more. Non-residents who have a boating safety card or certificate from another state or country that meets Florida's standards may also use it to operate a boat in Sarasota.
Sarasota Reviews
Adrianne
Party Cruiser Rental in Sarasota, Florida
Ian and Reese were very accommodating and made sure our group had a great day. They took us to a huge sandbar that felt like we had our own private island. I would recommend them to anyone wanting a day out on the water in Sarasota. This beats a regular beach day any day.
Christal
Spacious 22ft Bentley 220 Encore Pontoon in Sarasota, Florida
Klaus was responsive with all my messages and arrived early to meet me. He made sure I was comfortable before leaving and was at the dock waiting when I came back. My family enjoyed our boat day and appreciate Klaus' professional and friendly personality.
- TE
Tricia
Well Played Luxury Charter - Anna Maria Island
Pamela really knows how to make a special day happen. From her communication to her attention to detail, to the fact that she goes above and beyond to make your experience memorable - I cannot recommend booking with Pamela enough! We were lucky enough to have Captain Mitch and John with us for the day and would highly recommend both of them. Professional and FUN. Thank you for the perfect day!
Katherine
Party Cruiser Rental in Sarasota, Florida
We booked this for our family trip & we couldnt have had a better experience. The service was outstanding. Ian and Reese were the best hosts. They made sure we were having a great time the whole trip. We loved how they were so interactive with the family & being the best tour guides. The next time we visit Sarasota we will definitely be booking with them again. If you want a day of fun, you will not be disappointed with these guys!!! 10/10 Thank you guys again for such a memorable experience!
Alan
Party Cruiser Rental in Sarasota, Florida
Ian and Reese were a great team and the perfect blend of professionalism and fun. From the very beginning Ian was responsive to my inquiry and any question I had about the booking. They were both on time and helped us load all of our belongings onto the boat. The boat comes with a private bathroom and a lower deck so it’s really convenient. The trip was well planned stopping at two sand bars and going even a little farther to sight see. We saw a manatee on our trip. The water blanket was so fun to hang out on and soak up the sun and the speaker was loud with Bluetooth. They were both fun to talk to and hang out but also made our comfort and safety their first priority. I would recommend Ian and Reese to any outing whether it is family, birthday, or even something more business related.
- MC
Maria
Party Cruiser Rental in Sarasota, Florida
Ian and Reese were awesome! They were super kind and were great at communicating. The boat was beautiful and very comfortable and we had a great time enjoying the Sunset! They definitely made my sisters bachelorette party special and I would highly recommend this boat to anyone! 😊
Boating Guide - Sarasota
Sarasota, Florida, offers gorgeous beaches and amazing boating in its bays and waterways. Cruise Little Sarasota Bay, explore Anna Maria Island, Siesta Key, Manasota Key, or Longboat Key with ease on a boat rental from Sarasota. Snorkel in the calm blue waters, bring your kids with and maybe get lucky and spot some dolphins!
Here are GetMyBoat’s top picks for things to do with a boat rental in Sarasota:
Sarasota Boat Rentals & Charters
Visiting Sarasota for a vacation, or are you a local looking to get on the water? Choose from dozens of boat rentals available here for your next day on the water. Go swimming off your boat in the calm waters of Little Sarasota Bay or cruise over to Anna Maria Island for a fantastic day trip. Admire luxurious waterfront homes, remarkable architecture, and boat docks from the comfort of your own personal charter. You can either enjoy fishing off your boat rental or book a full-service deep-sea fishing charter with a local guide and captain.
Beautiful weather and calm water make Sarasota one of the top boating destinations in the United States. With apps like GetMyBoat, boating is more accessible and affordable than many people think. In fact, in Sarasota powerboat and pontoon rentals start as low as $75/hour, so you can get out on the water without breaking the bank.
Stopping at a sandbar is one of the most popular activities for boaters cruising along the Florida coast. Anchor in shallow water, cool off from the heat and relax with family and friends. Some of the sandbars allow pets, so you can bring your furry friend along for a fun-filled day on the water. Here’s a list of our favorite sandbars in Sarasota!
- Sharker’s Island
- Big Pass
- Sand Dollar Island
- Jewfish Key Sandbar
Looking for a unique water experience in Sarasota? Why not try snorkeling through a seagrass meadow? These meadows are filled with flowering plants that have adapted to live undersea and support marine animals. If you’re lucky, you may see a manatee or sea turtle feeding on the seagrass! Don’t miss your chance to see this fascinating underwater ecosystem up close and personal.
Sarasota Fishing Charters
A fishing charter in Sarasota is the perfect way to spend your day on the water. You can sit back and relax while expert crew members take care of the navigation and logistics of the trip. Most charters include all of the fishing equipment you need, such as coolers, ice, fishing rods, rod holders, bait, tackle, etc. You can expect to catch fish like trout, snook, redfish, sheepshead, flounder, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, ladyfish, and more!
If you plan on fishing in Sarasota Bay, the Middle Grounds is the spot to be. The Middle Grounds spread over a large area of the channel leading to New Pass.
Sarasota Jet Ski Rentals
Want to have an adrenaline-filled adventure in Sarasota? Rent a jet-ski for a thrilling ride through the waves, stopping at beaches and sandbars along the way. The first step to making unforgettable memories on the water in Sarasota is to rent a pair of Yamaha jet skis for you and your travel companions.
Sarasota Weather & Seasons
The best time of year to visit Sarasota is from March to May and September to November when you’ll have warm weather, but skip the peak season crowds and prices.
Boat Launches & Docks in Sarasota
Centennial Park
This dog-friendly park has a 3 double lane boat launch and parking for boaters. Launch here and cruise out into Sarasota Bay.
Address: 1059 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Ken Thompson Park
This is a six-lane, concrete boat launch with four docks. There are 50 parking spaces and no launch fee.
Address: 1700 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236
Turtle Beach
This spot sits on the south side of Siesta Key and has two ramps. One is a bit steep, it’s a popular kayak launch spot. The park is open from 6 AM to 10 PM, and the launch is free to use. It will give boaters access to Little Sarasota Bay.
Address: 8701 Blind Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Blackburn Point Park
This park and boat launch point is in Osprey on the south side of Little Sarasota Bay. It’s a newer boat ramp. It also offers a canoe launch, fishing pier, hiking trails, a pet-friendly park, and restrooms.
Address: 491-799 Blackburn Point Rd, Osprey, FL 34229
Coquina Beach
This launch is located in Bradenton Beach, just north of Longboat Pass. It offers ample parking and a large ramp to launch boats. There are great fishing spots in the North Sarasota Bay and Jewfish Key right by the launch.
Address: 1465 Gulf Dr. S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Places of Interest Near Sarasota
Turtle Beach
This lovely beach is located on the south end of Siesta Key and is home to a sea turtle nesting habitat. Turtle Beach has one of the largest populations of loggerhead turtles along with a good number of green turtles too. Turtle Beach is beloved by many because it’s quiet and less crowded than the other beaches on Siesta Keys. Be sure to add this stop to your travel itinerary for Sarasota.
If you’re planning to stay in Siesta Keys overnight you should consider camping at Turtle Beach Campground, just steps away from the beach! The campground has 39 RV and tent sites with full hookups, free wifi, restrooms, and hot showers. Online reservations are available and encouraged.
Siesta Keys Beach
Siesta Keys Beach is just a short 20-minute drive away from Sarasota and a popular destination along the Gulf Coast. This unique public beach is filled with quartz crystal powdery white sand and is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, swimming, and more! Be sure to check out the tide pools or try snorkeling while you’re visiting.
Sarasota Bay
Sarasota Bay is a lagoon located off the central west coast of Florida. The bay is the perfect destination to unwind and relax in nature. The outdoor activities are endless - visit a sandbar, snorkel in a seagrass meadow, relax on an isolated beach, or go fishing. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly tour, you can kayak through shady mangroves, searching for manatees.
South Lido Nature Park
Popular amongst tourists, South Lido Nature Park is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Enjoy a beach day with your loved ones, adventure out on the water via kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, or take a stroll through one of the natural trails in the park.
Dock & Dine in Sarasota - Waterfront Restaurants for Boaters
Marina Jacks
This restaurant has it all! Enjoy delicious seafood, an outdoor raw bar, and a piano bar indoors for live music. Indulge in a stuffed Maine Lobster or a sip a cocktail and watch the sunset. Pull up in your boat and eat a meal at Marina Jacks when visiting Sarasota.
Address: 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236
The Boatyard Waterfront Bar and Grill
For a casual but vibrant and fun dining experience, visit the Boatyard. It’s a pierside restaurant offering seafood & cocktails right on a marina. Listen to the live music while overlooking the boats cruising on the waterfront, enjoy some peel-and-eat shrimp or fish tacos while drinking a tropical cocktail. Every seat has a great view at the Boatyard Waterfront Bar and Grill.
Address: 1500 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34231
O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill
Drink a beer and eat some fried shrimp while enjoying beachfront views and seating. O’Learys offers a variety of both seafood and American cuisine, a full bar, and live music. You can enjoy your meal right on the beach with their outdoor seating options.
Address: 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
Marinas, Gas Stations & Services in Sarasota
Safe Harbor Siesta Key
One-stop shop for all of your boating needs in Sarasota. Safe Harbor offers dry storage, marine services, a fuel dock, ship store, and waterside restaurant, Spearfish Grill, attached to the marina. Safe Harbor can help boaters of all experiences and needs in Sarasota.
Address: 1265 Old Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Hidden Harbor Marina
This small marina is in a convenient location and offers both indoor and outdoor dry storage, concierge service, and fuel service of ValvTect gasoline for marine engines.
Address: 7700 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
Sara Bay Marina
This is a full-service facility with wet slips and dry storage. Sara Bay offers boat maintenance services and a full parts department, as well as boat sales.
Address: 7040 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
Top Destinations Nearby Sarasota
Venice
Just a 35-minute drive away from Sarasota is Venice, Florida. Spend a relaxing day at Venice Beach, go snorkeling or diving at the off-shore coral reef, or visit Caspersen Beach, where you can find an abundance of shark teeth. Catch an iconic sunset at Venice Fishing Pier for the perfect way to close out the day.
Bradenton Beach
Bradenton Beach is the southernmost city on Anna Maria Island and is well-known for its historic fishing piers, fresh seafood, and sugary sand beaches. Embark on a fishing charter, dine at a waterfront restaurant, or spend the day cruising along the Gulf Coast on a boat rental.
GetMyBoat has 54 listings for boating experiences in Sarasota with 334 reviews.
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