The Best Boat Rentals in New Smyrna Beach

Most casual cruising pontoons and deck boats in New Smyrna Beach run about $70–$100 per hour or roughly $400–$600 for a full day, while inshore fishing boats and center consoles are often $90–$125 per hour. Private sightseeing charters with a captain commonly start around $100–$150 per hour, and specialty wake boats can be $300+ per hour. Rentals generally include required U.S. Coast Guard safety gear, lines and fenders, and basic orientation. Many listings also provide a Bimini top for shade, Bluetooth audio, and a cooler; fuel, taxes, and captain gratuity are usually extra unless the listing states otherwise.

You’ll find easygoing pontoon and deck boats for sandbar days, center consoles and bay boats for inshore fishing, wake and watersports boats, and relaxed captained tour boats for dolphin-spotting and sunset cruises. Sailboats are less common here because the Indian River Lagoon and Mosquito Lagoon have extensive shallow flats, so most rentals are powerboats designed for the Intracoastal Waterway and nearby inlets.

If you want a stress-free day—especially with a group or special occasion—choose a captained charter and let a local pro handle docking, tides, and routes. Self-operated rentals are great for experienced boaters planning mellow Intracoastal cruising and sandbar stops. The nearby Ponce de Leon Inlet can have swift currents and shifting shoals, so first-time visitors typically stick to the Intracoastal Waterway or go with a captain.

Common pickup points include New Smyrna Beach City Marina on North Riverside Drive in the heart of downtown, the North Causeway Boat Ramp by the drawbridge with quick access to the Intracoastal, and the Swoope (Swoop) Site Boat Ramp south of the North Causeway, which is popular for runs to Disappearing Island. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed in your booking details.

Expect classic Intracoastal scenery with mangrove islands, waterfront villages, and frequent wildlife—dolphins are common, and manatees are often spotted in warmer months. Cruising toward Ponce Inlet brings views of Smyrna Dunes Park and the iconic, red-brick Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse across the channel. Many trips also anchor at Disappearing Island, the area’s famous low‑tide sandbar, and you can skirt the wild shorelines of Canaveral National Seashore for a more natural backdrop.

Florida does not issue a traditional “boating license,” but state law requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 to have completed an approved boater safety course to operate a boat of 10 hp or more. Visitors can meet this requirement with a NASBLA‑approved card from another state or by taking Florida’s short temporary certificate exam online before their rental. If you book a captained charter, the captain operates the boat and you won’t need this.

Yes—families are welcome. Every boat carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all passengers, and reputable operators keep child sizes on board. Florida law requires children under age 6 to wear a life jacket while underway on vessels under 26 feet. For comfort, choose morning departures for cooler temps, pack sun protection, and consider shorter cruises with plenty of shade.

Absolutely. Most boats are BYO for snacks and beverages, and many provide a cooler; bring ice if your listing doesn’t include it. Beer, wine, and canned cocktails are typically fine for guests 21+ on private charters, but glass is often discouraged. If you prefer to dock for lunch, there are several dock‑and‑dine spots along the Intracoastal—just ask your captain or check your route for options.

Many private rentals are pet‑friendly with prior approval, especially for small, well‑behaved dogs. Bring a leash, a non‑slip mat, fresh water, and a pet life vest if you have one. For a shoreside break, the inlet shoreline at Smyrna Dunes Park is dog‑friendly on leash; however, pets are not permitted on the ocean beach inside Canaveral National Seashore. Always confirm pet policies in your booking.

Boating here is year‑round, but summer often brings pop‑up afternoon thunderstorms and breezier seas by late day. Captains and owners will not depart in unsafe conditions; if lightning or advisories are in the forecast, they typically offer to reschedule or refund per the listing’s policy. Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, so keep an eye on forecasts and book morning starts for the calmest water and cooler temps.

Yes—this area is ideal for relaxed celebrations. Popular plans include sandbar picnics at Disappearing Island, sunset cruises past the lighthouse, or dolphin‑spotting along the Intracoastal. Most private boats host 6–12 guests depending on the vessel; check capacity on your listing, arrange catering or coolers ahead of time, and consider a captained trip so you can focus on the fun.

For soft breezes and lighter crowds, spring and fall are superb, while summer is prime for warm‑water sandbar days—just start early to beat heat and afternoon storms. Weekdays are quieter than weekends, and mornings are typically smoothest. Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day weekends book far in advance. In December, the local Holiday Boat Parade draws festive traffic on the river; plan early if you want to cruise or watch from the water.

Disappearing Island is a wide, tidal sandbar inside Ponce Inlet that emerges around low tide and is one of the most popular boat spots in the region. It’s an easy run from New Smyrna Beach via the Intracoastal; many rentals and charters can take you there to anchor, swim, and relax. Check tide times, bring sun protection and plenty of water, and be mindful of currents closer to the inlet when moving or anchoring.