The Best Boat Rentals in Puerto Rico

Most private charters in Puerto Rico start around $100–$200 per hour for small powerboats and center consoles, $250–$400 per hour for mid-size cruisers or power catamarans, and $500–$900+ per hour for larger yachts. Classic sailboats often price by the day, commonly around $900–$1,400. Shared group trips to nearby islands usually run about $100–$150 per person. Many charters include a licensed captain, fuel for standard routes, a cooler with ice and bottled water or soft drinks, snorkel gear and basic floatation, and all required safety equipment. Add‑ons like premium catering, specialty beverages, drone photos, ground transfers, taxes, and gratuity are usually extra. Booking early for weekends and holidays helps you lock in the best options and rates.

You’ll find a wide mix that fits most groups and budgets: fast center consoles for island-hopping and snorkeling, comfortable power catamarans with stable decks, classic monohull sailboats for relaxed bay cruising, sailing catamarans that blend comfort and performance, and motor yachts with shaded lounges and plenty of seating for celebrations. Availability spans half‑day, full‑day, and sunset outings so you can match the boat style and trip length to your plan.

If you plan to drive the boat yourself, Puerto Rico law requires residents born after July 1, 1972 to hold an approved boating safety license. Visitors who want to self‑operate are typically asked to show strong prior experience and a recognized boating safety certificate, and may face additional deposits and route limits. In practice, most Getmyboat listings here are captained charters, which removes licensing questions, simplifies docking and navigation around reefs and marine reserves, and lets your group relax while a local expert handles the boat and itinerary.

For San Juan sightseeing and sunset cruises, common pickup points include San Juan Bay Marina and Club Náutico de San Juan. For island‑hopping to clear‑water cays like Icacos and Palomino on the east coast, departures often use marinas in Fajardo such as Puerto del Rey, Marina Puerto Chico, and Villa Marina. On the southwest coast, many day trips and bioluminescent bay outings leave from the waterfront docks in La Parguera (Lajas). You’ll also see trips from Puerto Real (Cabo Rojo) for west‑coast beaches and fishing. Your booking confirmation will specify the meeting point and parking details.

In San Juan you’ll cruise past the stone walls of Old San Juan, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, and Castillo San Cristóbal, with skyline views and the Bacardí complex across the bay. On the east coast, expect turquoise shallows and white‑sand cays in the Cordillera Nature Reserve, including Cayo Icacos and Palomino, with optional longer runs to Culebra or Vieques. Down southwest around La Parguera, you’ll find mangrove islands, sandbars, and at night the famous bioluminescent bay. Wildlife sightings can include sea turtles, dolphins, soaring frigatebirds, and even gentle manatees in and around San Juan’s estuary waters.

Yes. Family groups are welcome, and all legal safety gear is provided. Boats carry U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, including child sizes; let your captain know the ages and weights of younger guests in advance. By local rules, children under 12 must wear a life jacket while the boat is underway unless they are inside an enclosed cabin. For little ones, calm‑water itineraries and morning departures are usually most comfortable, and many boats can provide shade, float mats, and easy swim ladders.

Most private charters allow you to bring your own snacks, meals, and beverages, and many include a cooler with ice. Glass is often discouraged, and red‑dye drinks can be restricted to protect upholstery. If you prefer not to pack, ask about pre‑ordering catering, charcuterie, or a simple open‑bar upgrade—several operators can arrange it. For evening bioluminescent trips, some captains limit sunscreen and bug spray immediately before boarding to protect sensitive waters, so check your listing for any special notes.

Pet policies vary by boat. Small, well‑behaved dogs are often allowed on private charters with advance approval, a cleaning fee, and a pet life jacket. Shared group tours and bioluminescent bay outings typically do not allow pets. If you’re bringing a dog, pack a towel, water dish, and leash, and avoid sensitive nesting cays where wildlife protection rules apply.

Puerto Rico is a year‑round boating destination with warm water and plenty of sun. Captains continuously monitor marine forecasts and may adjust routes for comfort, since trade winds and chop often build in the afternoon on the north and east coasts. If the captain deems conditions unsafe—think heavy swell, lightning, or a small‑craft advisory—charters are generally rescheduled or refunded according to the policy on your booking. If your plans change, standard guest cancellation windows are commonly 48–72 hours, but always check the specifics on your listing.

High season runs from December through April, when skies are typically drier and seas favorable; shoulder months like May, June, and November can offer great conditions with fewer crowds. Hurricane season spans June 1 to November 30; many days are still excellent, but flexible planning and travel insurance are smart during late summer and early fall. Weekdays are easier for availability and parking, and mornings are usually smoother on the water. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early. If you’re near San Juan in late August, the San Juan International Billfish Tournament brings extra marina activity around Club Náutico.

Absolutely. Many boats are set up for celebrations with Bluetooth sound, shaded lounges, big swim platforms, float mats, and easy water access. Captains can suggest scenic swim stops and smooth routes for photos, and some offer décor, cake, or catering add‑ons. To keep things simple, choose a boat with capacity that comfortably fits your group, confirm BYO policies, and reserve early for weekends or holiday dates.

Self‑drive options exist but are limited compared with captained charters. Operators generally prioritize local captains because of reefs, narrow channels, and marine protected areas. If you do find a true bareboat option, expect to show strong skippering experience, present recognized safety credentials, post a higher security deposit, and follow a defined route plan. For most planners, hiring a captain is the easiest, safest way to enjoy the day while keeping your group focused on the fun.

Trips to Cayo Icacos, Palomino, and farther afield to Culebra or Vieques most often depart from Fajardo and nearby marinas, including Puerto del Rey, Marina Puerto Chico, and Villa Marina. These locations put you close to the Cordillera Cays, so you spend less time transiting and more time in the water. If you’re staying in San Juan, some operators can arrange runs from the capital, but east‑coast departures usually give you the most time at the islands.

La Parguera, on the island’s southwest coast, is the only bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico where operators allow guests to enter the water on guided boat tours. Outings typically leave after sunset, include a safety briefing and life jackets, and make a short hop to protected, glowing waters. The experience is magical, but the light is hard to capture on a phone camera; it’s best enjoyed in the moment. Follow your captain’s guidance on sunscreen and lotions, and note that jellyfish are possible—crews are prepared to assist if needed.