The Best Boat Rentals in Marathon

Expect smaller self-operated boats to start around $300–$600 per day plus fuel and tax, with multi-day discounts common. Private captained trips for snorkeling, sandbar hopping, or reef fishing typically run about $450–$900 for 2–4 hours and $900–$1,800+ for a full day, depending on boat size and itinerary. Larger yachts and premium experiences can range from roughly $1,800 to $3,500+ for half to full days. Most listings include required safety gear, Bluetooth sound, coolers and ice, and often snorkel sets; fuel, gratuity (customarily 15–20% for captained trips), and specialty equipment are the usual extras.

You’ll find a wide mix suited to Keys waters, including center consoles and deck boats for reef and sandbar days, pontoons for relaxed cruising with a group, sportfishing boats for reef, wreck, or offshore runs, sailing monohulls and catamarans for a quieter day under sail, and mid-size motor yachts for celebrations and sunset cruises. Choose based on your group size, desired speed and shade, and whether you plan to fish, snorkel, or simply cruise.

If you want a turn‑key day—optimized snorkel spots, stress‑free navigation through channels and shallow flats, and local wildlife/sightseeing intel—go captained. It’s also best if your group wants to relax with food, drinks, and music while someone else handles the helm. Confident boaters who know coastal navigation can choose a self‑operated rental; just plan your route with tides and wind in mind and follow marked channels closely. Many groups split the difference by hiring a captain for the first outing, then going self‑drive later in the trip.

Common pickup points include Boot Key Harbor City Marina off 35th Street Ocean, Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club’s marina near the lighthouse, Marathon Marina & Boatyard on 11th Street Ocean, and Sombrero Marina along Sombrero Boulevard in Boot Key Harbor. Some captains also meet at public ramps such as the 33rd Street Gulf ramp or The Quay ramp, depending on wind and route. Your booking confirmation will specify the exact dock and parking details.

Classic sights include the Seven Mile Bridge with views of historic Pigeon Key, the offshore Sombrero Key Light and the coral gardens of Sombrero Reef, plus turquoise flats, mangrove islands, and backcountry channels where you may spot dolphins, sea turtles, rays, pelicans, and ospreys. On calm days, visibility over the reef can be exceptional, making snorkeling a highlight.

Florida requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 to have a Boating Safety Education I.D. Card (or recognized equivalent) to operate a motorized vessel of 10 hp or more. Visitors who don’t have one can take a brief online exam to obtain a 90‑day Florida Temporary Boating Safety Certificate before operating a rental. If you book a captained charter, no license or certificate is required for you as a passenger.

Yes—most captains and owners welcome families. Every boat must carry U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets sized for each passenger, and in Florida children under 6 must wear a life jacket while a vessel under 26 feet is underway. Let your host know the ages and sizes of children so they can have the right PFDs ready, and consider morning trips for calmer conditions and easier snorkeling.

Generally yes. Most charters are BYO and provide a cooler with ice. Cans and reusable bottles are preferred over glass for safety. If you plan to drink alcohol, keep it moderate and never for the person operating a self‑drive boat. Many captains are happy to recommend local spots for pickup platters before departure, and some yachts can arrange catering by request.

Many private charters allow well‑behaved dogs on cruising or sandbar trips; always ask first and mention your pet’s size. Bring a non‑slip mat, freshwater bowl, and a canine life jacket if you have one. For reef snorkeling or trips with lots of in‑and‑out swimming, captains may recommend leaving pets ashore for their comfort and safety.

The Keys are boatable year‑round, but summer brings warm temps and pop‑up afternoon storms, while June through November is hurricane season with the highest tropical activity in late summer and early fall. Captains monitor marine forecasts and will reschedule or cancel if conditions are unsafe due to lightning, high winds, or advisories. If weather forces a no‑go, most listings offer a free reschedule or refund per their stated policy; check the terms on your specific booking and keep an eye on forecasts the day before.

Absolutely. Many boats are set up for celebrations with shaded seating, great sound systems, floating mats, and easy sandbar access. Let your host know the occasion, preferred vibe (laid‑back cruise, snorkel-and-sandbar, or photo‑heavy sunset run), and headcount. Note that many smaller vessels are limited to 6 passengers under U.S. Coast Guard rules; choose an inspected vessel if you need a higher capacity.

Weather is pleasantly warm and dry from late fall through spring, with especially clear water in winter and spring. Summer offers long daylight and lively marine life but also the chance of afternoon showers; morning departures are typically calmer. Demand spikes on holiday weekends—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—and during the annual lobster “mini‑season” on the last Wednesday and Thursday of July, plus big local events like the Marathon Seafood Festival in March and the Seven Mile Bridge Run in early April. For the smoothest experience and best pricing, book weekday mornings and secure your dates a few weeks in advance for peak times.

Yes. The Valhalla/Grassy Key Sandbar just east of Curry Hammock State Park is a local favorite for shallow, crystal‑clear water and relaxed hangouts on calm days. For snorkeling, Sombrero Reef—marked by the red Sombrero Key Light—offers colorful coral heads and schools of reef fish in depths from a few feet to about 30 feet. Your captain will choose the day’s best spots based on wind and visibility to keep the ride comfortable and the water clear.