The Best Boat Rentals in Fort Lauderdale

Expect small motorboats like bowriders and deck boats to start around $100–$150 per hour, mid-size center consoles and cruisers to run about $150–$300 per hour, and captained motor yachts to range from roughly $300–$700+ per hour depending on size, amenities, and season. Half-day trips commonly total $600–$1,200 for smaller boats and $1,200–$2,500+ for larger yachts, with holiday weekends priced higher. Your rate typically covers the boat, standard safety gear, and on captained charters the captain’s time; fuel for relaxed Intracoastal cruising is often included while offshore runs may add fuel costs. Ice and bottled water are frequently provided, while taxes, marina pickup fees, and a customary 10–20% gratuity for the crew are extra.

You’ll find an extensive mix to match your group and plans, including bowriders and jet boats for quick cruises, deck boats and pontoons for lounging, center consoles and sportfish boats for nearshore or offshore runs, sleek motor yachts and larger party-friendly yachts for celebrations, and sailboats or sailing catamarans for a more relaxed day under sail.

Captained charters are the easiest option for most groups, especially if you want to relax while a local expert handles navigation, docking, and bridge openings on the New River and Intracoastal Waterway. Self-operated (bareboat) rentals are available on select vessels; if you plan to operate the boat, you’ll need sufficient experience and to meet Florida’s boating safety requirements. For bigger groups or larger yachts, a captain and crew are standard.

Common meeting points include Bahia Mar Yachting Center near the beach, Las Olas Marina by Las Olas Boulevard, the Pier Sixty-Six area and 15th Street corridor by the 17th Street Causeway, and the New River downtown near Cooley’s Landing Park & Marina. Your captain will confirm the exact pickup spot and parking details after you book.

Most outings cruise the Intracoastal Waterway and the New River past palm-lined canals, drawbridges like the 17th Street Causeway, and the mansion-lined isles often nicknamed Millionaires’ Row. You can spot the skyline along Fort Lauderdale Beach, mega-yachts near local marinas, and busy Port Everglades. Many trips pause to swim or relax around Lake Sylvia, and longer runs may point toward the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse to the north if conditions allow.

In Florida, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 who will operate a motorboat must have a Boating Safety Education ID Card (or a qualifying out-of-state equivalent) and carry photo ID. Many visitors complete a quick temporary certificate online before their trip. If you book a captained charter, you do not need a boating license because the professional captain operates the vessel.

Yes, most charters welcome families. Every boat carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all guests, and Florida law requires children under 6 to wear a life jacket while underway on vessels under 26 feet. Captains can provide child sizes on request; if you have an infant or toddler, consider bringing a familiar, well-fitting vest for comfort.

BYO is common, and many boats provide coolers with ice and bottled water. Glass containers are discouraged, and some owners restrict staining items such as red wine. Passengers of legal age may enjoy alcohol, but the operator must remain sober. You can also request recommendations for catering or dock-and-dine stops along the Intracoastal.

Some boats are pet-friendly, especially for small dogs, while others are not due to upholstery and teak decks. Always ask first and share your pet’s size and temperament. If approved, bring a leash, water bowl, and a towel; a modest cleaning fee may apply.

Captains closely monitor local marine forecasts, especially in summer when brief afternoon storms are common and during hurricane season from June through November. If conditions are unsafe, your captain will work with you to reschedule or issue a weather-related refund according to the trip’s cancellation policy. Light rain often means you’ll cruise the more protected Intracoastal rather than offshore.

Absolutely. Many boats are set up with Bluetooth speakers, shaded seating, large swim platforms, and floating mats, making them ideal for milestone events. Simple decorations are usually fine, but confetti and balloons are typically not allowed. For busy weekends and holiday dates, lock in your preferred time 2–6 weeks ahead, and confirm the passenger capacity for your specific vessel.

Peak boating runs from December through April with warm, dry weather and calmer seas, though Spring Break can make weekends busier. Summer brings hotter temps and quick afternoon showers, so mornings are usually smoother and cooler. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early and may carry surcharges. Notable local events like the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in late October, the Fort Lauderdale Air Show in spring, the Tortuga Music Festival in April, and December’s Winterfest Boat Parade also spike demand and traffic; weekdays and early departures are your best bet for easier cruising.

Yes. Popular hangouts include the calm waters of Lake Sylvia for swimming and relaxing, plus scenic cruises along the New River’s historic bends. With cooperative weather and time, some trips extend north toward the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse for photos. Wildlife sightings are possible year-round—think dolphins, rays, and seasonal manatees—so captains keep respectful distances and idle through posted slow-speed zones.