The Best Boat Rentals in Sarasota

Most casual pontoons and deck boats run about $75–$150 per hour, with many captained sightseeing trips in the $100–$200 per hour range depending on group size and season. Mid‑size motor yachts for celebrations typically start around $300–$600 per hour, while larger luxury yachts can run $700–$1,500+ per hour. Prices usually include the boat, basic safety gear, and for captained charters the captain’s time; fuel may be included for set‑route tours but is sometimes billed separately on private custom trips. Taxes and platform fees are added at checkout, and gratuity for your captain and crew is customary for great service.

You can choose from roomy pontoons and deck boats for sandbar days, sporty bowriders and center consoles for cruising and dolphin spotting, sailing monohulls and catamarans for a breezy afternoon, and motor yachts for birthdays and bachelorettes. You’ll also find specialty options like tiki or party boats with shade and lounge seating to keep everyone comfortable.

Both options are available. A captained charter is the easiest choice if you want a stress‑free day with an expert handling navigation, anchoring, and local spots. If you plan to operate the boat yourself, Florida requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 to hold a Boating Safety Education ID Card or approved temporary certificate, and owners may set additional experience requirements. For larger yachts and most party boats, trips are typically captained.

Common meet‑ups include the downtown Bayfront marina area by Marina Jack, the Centennial Park/10th Street Boat Ramp just north of downtown, the Ken Thompson Park Boat Ramp on City Island near Mote Marine, and Siesta Key Marina on Old Stickney Point Road. Your booking confirmation will give exact directions, parking details, and any gate codes.

Highlights often include dolphins playing in Sarasota Bay, seasonal manatee sightings, the sweeping arc of the John Ringling Causeway, and the colorful waterfront skyline. Many cruises pass the historic Ca’ d’Zan mansion, glide by Bird Key and Lido Key, and stop to swim at clear‑water sandbars like those near New Pass or up toward Jewfish Key, with sunset trips capping the day over the Gulf.

Florida does not issue a traditional “license,” but if you’ll be the operator and were born on or after January 1, 1988, you must carry a Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card or an approved temporary certificate, along with photo ID. Visitors with an equivalent, NASBLA‑approved credential from another state generally qualify. Captained charters do not require you to hold any certification.

Yes, families are welcome. Every legal charter provides U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jackets, including child sizes. Florida law requires children under 6 years old to wear a life jacket while underway on vessels under 26 feet, and many captains will fit kids with PFDs at boarding. Strollers, snacks, and soft coolers are usually fine; just confirm space when you book.

Most boats are BYO and have a cooler or allow you to bring one with ice. Cans are preferred over glass, and red wine or staining beverages may be restricted. Many captains can suggest dock‑and‑dine stops or arrange simple catering with advance notice. Always check your booking’s house rules for specifics.

Many hosts are pet‑friendly for well‑behaved dogs with prior approval, and some charge a small cleaning fee. Bring a leash, water bowl, and a towel, and plan shade breaks on hot days. For wildlife and beach rules, your captain will steer you to appropriate sandbar or shoreline spots where pets are permitted.

Captains watch marine forecasts closely, especially in summer when brief afternoon thunderstorms pop up. If conditions are unsafe—think lightning, small‑craft advisories, or high winds—trips are typically rescheduled or refunded per the listing’s policy. To avoid heat and wind, mornings and sunset departures are usually the smoothest.

Absolutely. For 8–12 guests, a captained pontoon or day boat with a sandbar stop and swim ladder is easy and affordable. For 12+ or a more upscale vibe, consider a motor yacht with shade, a cabin, and a Bluetooth sound system. Have your headcount, target date, budget, and preferred vibe ready, and ask about decor guidelines, alcohol rules, and photo stops at sunset.

Boating is year‑round, but March–May and October–November bring especially pleasant temps and clear water. Winter offers crisp, calm days; summer delivers warm water, with the calmest rides early or near sunset. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—sell out early and ramps get busy, so reserve well ahead. December’s Holiday Boat Parade of Lights brings crowds to the Bayfront, and the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix—historically a big Lido Beach weekend—is paused for 2025 with organizers indicating a possible return in 2026. For lighter traffic and easier parking, choose weekdays over weekends and morning departures over afternoons.

Sandbar hopping is a local favorite. Many groups cruise through Sarasota Bay past the Ringling Bridge to swim at Big Pass sandbars, then continue north toward the clear, shallow waters by Jewfish Key or the driftwood‑lined shores near Beer Can Island when conditions allow. Expect dolphins, seabirds, and postcard‑worthy views along the way, with a sunset ride back under the bridge to finish the day.