The Best Boat Rentals in Sunny Isles Beach

Expect most casual cruising boats and pontoons to start around $70–$200 per hour, with midsize sport cruisers and center consoles in the $125–$350 range. Captained motor yachts typically run from about $250–$500 per hour, while larger or luxury yachts can range from roughly $600 to over $1,200 per hour depending on size, brand, and season. Rates often include the vessel, standard safety gear, and basic amenities like a Bluetooth sound system; many captained charters also include a licensed captain and fuel for slow-speed Intracoastal cruising. Extras like gratuity (customarily 15–20%), added fuel for longer routes or higher speeds, swim toys or floating mats, ice and beverages, and docking fees at waterfront restaurants may be additional. Half‑day (4 hours) and full‑day (6–8 hours) packages commonly offer the best value.

The area offers everything from comfortable pontoons and deck boats for sandbar days to center consoles for sightseeing and nearshore cruising. Sport cruisers in the 28–40 foot range are popular for families, while motor yachts and catamarans are the go‑to for birthdays, bachelorettes, and upscale gatherings. If you want open‑air lounging and easy swim stops, look at pontoons or day cruisers; if you prefer shaded seating, stable ride quality, and a cabin or restroom, step up to a sport cruiser or yacht.

You can book either captained or self‑operated options. Most visitors choose a captained trip so a local pro handles docking, navigation, and busy weekend traffic—especially helpful near Haulover Inlet, which can be rough when wind and current oppose. If you plan to operate yourself, you’ll need solid boating experience and to meet Florida’s boater education rules. Larger boats and most yachts are offered with a captain only, while smaller powerboats are the typical self‑drive choices.

Common pickup points include Bill Bird Marina at Haulover Park and the nearby Haulover Marine Center, both offering quick access to the Intracoastal and Haulover Sandbar. You’ll also find many departures from Marina Palms Yacht Club in North Miami Beach and Turnberry Marina in Aventura, which are just minutes from Sunny Isles. Your captain will confirm the exact meet‑up spot and parking details after you book.

You’ll cruise the calm Intracoastal Waterway past the Sunny Isles skyline, waterfront mansions around Golden Beach and Bal Harbour, and the scenic channels by Oleta River State Park. Popular stops include the shallow, social Haulover Sandbar and nearby Sandspur Island, where you can swim and relax on board. Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, ospreys, and pelicans, and consider a sunset run for golden‑hour views of the city and ocean horizon.

Florida doesn’t issue a traditional “boating license,” but if you were born on or after January 1, 1988 and plan to operate a motorboat of 10 hp or more, you must carry proof of completing a state‑approved boater safety course or obtain a temporary certificate accepted in Florida, along with photo ID. This does not apply when you hire a licensed captain to operate the vessel. If you’re visiting from out of state, a NASBLA‑approved card or Florida’s temporary certificate works fine; your captain or rental listing can point you to the quick online exam if needed.

Yes—most charters are family‑friendly. Every vessel must carry U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jackets for each person on board, and captains provide child sizes when you share ages and weights in advance. Florida requires children under 6 to wear a life jacket while underway on boats under 26 feet. For babies and toddlers, ask about infant‑specific PFDs, bring sun protection, and consider a boat with shade and a restroom for comfort.

On most trips you can BYO snacks, water, and beverages for guests 21+. Many boats supply a cooler and ice or can add them on request. For everyone’s safety, glass is often discouraged, and hard liquor or red wine may be limited by the owner to prevent spills and stains. If you’re planning catering, let the captain know so they can advise on space and serving logistics. Please pack out what you bring and avoid items that can blow overboard.

Pet policies vary by boat. Some captains welcome small, well‑behaved dogs, sometimes with a modest cleaning fee, while others prefer no pets to keep upholstery pristine. If your dog is joining, bring a fitted pet life jacket, water bowl, and a towel, and consider a calmer weekday cruise to reduce stimulation from crowds at the sandbar.

South Florida’s dry season runs roughly November through April with warm, sunny days and lighter rain chances. The wet season from May through October brings higher heat and humidity with brief afternoon thunderstorms, plus tropical weather risks during hurricane season (June 1–November 30). Captains actively monitor marine forecasts and will adjust routes for comfort or reschedule if conditions are unsafe. Weather‑related refunds or credits follow the cancellation policy in your listing, so review that before you book.

Sunny Isles is ideal for celebrations. Most listings allow tasteful decorations, curated playlists over Bluetooth, and swim stops at Haulover Sandbar or a quiet cove. Confirm the trip’s maximum passenger count, footwear policy, and any rules about glitter, confetti, or taped décor. Share your plan when you inquire—captains can tailor routes for photo ops, restaurant dock‑and‑dine, or surprise moments, and many can arrange ice, mixers, and floating mats to simplify hosting.

For the smoothest logistics and typically calmer water, book weekday mornings year‑round. Winter and early spring (roughly November–April) are peak season with clear skies and lower rain chances, so reserve early. Summer brings long daylight and warm water, but aim for earlier departures to beat afternoon storms and weekend crowds at Haulover Sandbar. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—are extremely busy; plan well in advance and expect higher demand. Each February, the Miami International Boat Show draws large numbers of visitors to area marinas, which can affect parking and meeting points, so build in extra time during that week.

Haulover Sandbar is the signature stop for lounging, swimming, and people‑watching in shallow, clear water. Nearby Sandspur Island offers a laid‑back island vibe for anchoring and a picnic aboard. If you want a scenic cruise, follow the Intracoastal past Bal Harbour and Indian Creek for skyline views and mansions, or drift by Oleta River State Park to spot birds, dolphins, and—when the water’s cooler—manatees. Your captain will match the route to the day’s wind, tide, and your group’s mood.