The Best Boat Rentals in Ocho Rios

Expect most private charters in Ocho Rios to start around $400–$500 per hour for smaller powerboats and fishing trips, $700–$1,200 per hour for mid‑size yachts and private catamarans, and $1,200–$2,300+ per hour for large group catamaran cruises. Prices usually include a licensed captain and crew, fuel for standard coastal routes, safety gear, and often ice and snorkeling equipment; premium catering, bar upgrades, special decorations, and long-range fuel are common add‑ons. Check your listing for exact inclusions before you book.

You’ll find a good mix of options: sleek motor yachts for celebrations, sailing catamarans for smooth group cruises, classic sailboats, dedicated snorkeling and sightseeing boats, and fully equipped fishing vessels for offshore runs. Browse listings to match capacity, comfort level, and trip style to your plan.

Most visitors book captained charters because operating in Jamaican harbors requires the operator to hold a national certificate of competence issued by the Maritime Authority of Jamaica. That local credential is not something short‑term visitors typically have, so self‑drive options are limited and subject to strict verification of experience and permits.

For stress‑free cruising, a captained charter is the easiest choice—your skipper manages navigation, docking, and safety while you host your group. Bareboat (self‑operated) rentals place full responsibility for the vessel and local rules on you and are only possible where allowed and when you meet qualification requirements. If you’re unsure, book a captained trip and enjoy the day. (getmyboat.com, getmyboat.zendesk.com)

Common pickup points include the Ocho Rios Cruise Port on Turtle Beach Road, which has two piers—Turtle Bay Pier and Reynolds (James Bond) Pier—plus nearby beaches along the bay such as Ocho Rios Bay Beach (also called Turtle Beach) and Mahogany Beach on the east end of town. Your captain will confirm the exact meeting spot once you book. (cruisecritic.com, iqcruising.com, injamaica.com, lonelyplanet.com)

Highlights include views of cruise ships at anchor, the crescent of Ocho Rios Bay, reef zones inside the Ocho Rios Marine Park Protected Area, and the dramatic point where Dunn’s River Falls meets the sea. Offshore, popular dive and snorkel areas like Devil’s Reef teem with marine life, and along the coast you’ll pass near attractions such as Dolphin Cove and filming locations tied to James Bond lore like Laughing Waters. Trip routes vary with weather and sea state. (protectedplanet.net, dunnsriverfalls.net, nepa.gov.jm, divebooker.com, dolphindiscovery.com, lonelyplanet.com)

Families are welcome on most charters. Boats carry required safety equipment and life jackets, and commercial vessels in Jamaica undergo regular safety inspections; captains also brief guests on safety before departure. Tell your host the ages and sizes of any children so the crew can prepare appropriately sized PFDs. (maritimejamaica.com, getmyboat.com)

In most cases, yes. Many hosts allow you to bring snacks, meals, and beverages, and most boats provide a cooler with ice; some offer catering or open‑bar upgrades. Glass is often discouraged for safety—confirm your plan with the owner in advance so they can stock ice and advise on any restrictions.

Pet policies vary by boat. Some captains welcome well‑behaved dogs, sometimes with a cleaning fee; others are pet‑free for upholstery and safety reasons. If you hope to bring a pup, ask first and consider a fitted pet life jacket and a towel for paws.

Ocho Rios has tropical weather with passing showers year‑round and an Atlantic hurricane season from June 1 to November 30. If the captain deems conditions unsafe, trips are usually rescheduled or refunded according to the owner’s policy—review the cancellation terms on your listing and keep an eye on the forecast. (nhc.noaa.gov, getmyboat.zendesk.com)

Absolutely. Private yachts and catamarans here are set up for groups, with music, swim stops, snorkeling gear, and space to relax. Share your headcount, vibe (chill cruise or party), and any décor or cake requests when you inquire so your captain can tailor the day and suggest ideal departure times.

The driest, most popular boating months run from mid‑December through April, while September–October are the rainiest and sit near the heart of hurricane season. U.S. holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day often book up fast with visiting travelers, and spring Carnival events and late‑July/early‑August “Emancipendence” celebrations bring festive crowds. For smoother seas and easier parking, choose weekday mornings over weekend afternoons. (honeymoonguide.com.au, nhc.noaa.gov, visitjamaica.com, officeholidays.com)

Many itineraries combine coastal cruising with snorkeling on nearby reefs and a scenic pass by Dunn’s River Falls where it tumbles to the beach; some trips also glide past Dolphin Cove and the cinematic shoreline at Laughing Waters, featured in the first James Bond film. Your captain will plan the best route based on sea conditions and timing. (dunnsriverfalls.net, dolphindiscovery.com, lonelyplanet.com)