Sarasota, Florida is a premier Gulf Coast boating destination, known for its white-sand beaches, barrier islands, arts scene, and year-round warm weather. With access to Sarasota Bay, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the Gulf of Mexico, boating plays a major role in both recreation and tourism.

Because Sarasota’s waterways support heavy commercial and recreational traffic, for-hire boating activity is closely regulated by a combination of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Sarasota County, and the City of Sarasota.

All Getmyboat operators must comply with state and local laws, including vessel registration, captain licensing, insurance, designated launch sites, and operational restrictions. The following is an updated overview of commercial boating requirements in Sarasota, current as of 2026.

Florida Boating Safety Education Card

Florida law requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 to carry a Boating Safety Education Identification Card when operating a vessel powered by 10 horsepower or more.

  • Issued after completing an FWC-approved boating safety course
  • Must be carried on board and presented upon request
  • Applies to both recreational and commercial operators

Florida Boating Safety Act of 2022 (SB 606)

The Florida Boating Safety Act (SB 606), effective January 1, 2023, introduced stricter oversight of boat rental and for-hire operations across the state.

Key impacts for Sarasota commercial operators include:

  • Increased penalties for unsafe operation
  • Expanded enforcement authority for FWC
  • Additional safety and compliance expectations for rental businesses
  • Enhanced accountability for vessel owners and captains

Operators should expect active enforcement, especially in high-traffic areas like Sarasota Bay and coastal passes.

USCG Captain License Requirements

All commercial passenger vessels operating in Sarasota must be operated by a properly licensed U.S. Coast Guard captain.

Common credentials include:

  • OUPV (“6-Pack”) License – for vessels carrying up to six passengers
  • Master Captain License – required for vessels carrying more than six passengers

Captains are legally responsible for:

  • Safe navigation and vessel operation
  • Passenger safety and conduct
  • Compliance with federal, state, and local laws

Charter Captain vs. Charter Boat Licenses (Florida FWC)

Florida distinguishes between Charter Captain Licenses and Charter Boat Licenses, both administered by FWC.

Charter Captain License

  • Issued to an individual captain
  • Allows operation of multiple vessels
  • Requires a valid USCG captain license
  • Commonly used for fishing guides and captained charters

Charter Boat License

  • Issued to a specific vessel
  • Valid only for that boat
  • Requires proof the vessel is registered for commercial use or USCG-documented

Both licenses are required for paid saltwater fishing trips in Florida waters.

Vessel Registration & Titling (Florida)

All commercial vessels must be properly titled and registered through:

  • A county tax collector
  • An authorized Florida license plate agent

Accepted ownership documents may include:

  • Bill of sale
  • Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin
  • Builder’s contract
  • USCG Certificate of Documentation

If a title is required, it must be issued before registration is completed.

Commercial Insurance Requirements

Commercial boat operators must maintain adequate marine insurance, which may include:

  • General liability
  • Passenger liability
  • Hull and machinery coverage

Minimum coverage levels vary based on:

  • Vessel size
  • Passenger capacity
  • Marina or municipal agreements

Insurance compliance is essential for both legal operation and platform eligibility.

Passenger Pickup & Drop-Off Locations

Commercial operators may only load and unload passengers at approved locations and must follow marina-specific policies.

Common Sarasota-area access points include:

  • Centennial Park Boat Ramp – 1105 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
  • Ken Thompson Boat Ramp – 1708 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236
  • Turtle Beach Public Boat Ramp – 8701 Blind Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL

Always confirm commercial-use permissions before scheduling trips.

Sarasota County & City Operating Rules

Required Safety Equipment

Commercial vessels must carry:

  • USCG-approved life jackets for all passengers
  • Fire extinguishers
  • First-aid kit
  • Audible signaling device
  • Throwable flotation device

Operational Restrictions

  • Operators must provide a safety briefing before each trip
  • Commercial vessels may not operate within 300 feet of the Gulf shoreline, except in approved zones
  • Vessels must launch from designated marinas or ramps only
  • Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited
  • A trip logbook must be maintained, recording:
    • Passenger count
    • Route
    • Weather conditions

Inspections & Permits

  • Commercial vessels must pass USCG or state-approved inspections, when applicable
  • For-hire operators must obtain a business tax receipt from the Sarasota County Tax Collector
  • Commercial boat tours may require a permit from the Sarasota County Parks and Recreation Department

Key Resources for Sarasota Boat Operators

  • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
  • U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)
  • Sarasota County Tax Collector
  • City of Sarasota

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