The Best Boat Rentals in Stuart

Most small powerboats and pontoons around Stuart, FL, United States run about $75–$150 per hour, with half-day charters commonly $300–$500 and full-day outings $600–$900. Captained center consoles and fishing charters are often $100–$200 per hour, while larger motor yachts and premium cruisers can range from about $300 to $600+ per hour depending on size and crew. Many listings include a cooler, ice, bottled water, safety gear, and local fuel at no-wake speeds; trip fuel, taxes, marina fees, and gratuity may be extra. Captained trips typically bundle the captain’s time; bareboat/self-operated rentals may require a refundable security deposit and proof of boater education.

You’ll find an easy mix for every plan: pontoons and deck boats for sandbar days, bowriders for cruising the river, center consoles for fishing and inlet runs, sailboats and catamarans for relaxed sailing, and larger yachts for celebrations. If you want to focus on fun and photos, choose a captained tour boat or yacht; if you’re comfortable at the helm, many smaller powerboats are available as self-operated rentals.

If you want a stress-free day—think birthdays, proposals, or multi-stop sandbar hopping—a captained charter is the most relaxed option. Your captain handles routing, docking, tides, and weather calls. Confident boaters who meet Florida’s education rules can book self-operated powerboats for river cruising and sandbar time. If your plan includes the St. Lucie Inlet or offshore, a local captain is strongly recommended due to shifting shoals and fast currents near the inlet.

Popular meeting spots include Sunset Bay Marina & Anchorage in Downtown Stuart and Sandsprit Park near the St. Lucie Inlet. Many trips also start at Stuart Causeway Park, the City’s Shepard Park boat ramp and docks on the St. Lucie River, Safe Harbor Harborage Yacht Club close to downtown, or Pirate’s Cove Marina in Port Salerno. Your confirmation will list the exact pickup point and parking details.

Expect classic Treasure Coast views: the St. Lucie River’s North and South Forks, the Indian River Lagoon’s mangroves and birdlife, the twin spans of the Roosevelt Bridge, and waterfront homes on Sewall’s Point and Jupiter Island. Many captains cruise past Manatee Pocket, the historic House of Refuge on Hutchinson Island, and—on longer trips—the beach at St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, which is only accessible by boat. Dolphin and manatee sightings are common, especially on calm mornings.

Florida does not issue a traditional “license,” but anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 must carry proof of completing a state‑approved boater safety course or a temporary boating safety certificate when operating a motorized vessel of 10 hp or more. Non‑residents can take the approved temporary exam online before the trip. Captained charters do not require you to meet operator education rules because the captain runs the vessel.

Yes—family outings are very common. USCG‑approved life jackets are provided for every passenger, with child sizes available; let your host know ages and approximate weights so the right fit is aboard. Florida requires children under 6 to wear a life jacket while underway on vessels under 26 feet, and many captains ask all kids to keep PFDs on near the bow or when seas pick up. Most boats also stock basic first‑aid supplies and have VHF or cell communication.

Most charters welcome your snacks, picnic-style meals, and beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice. Cans are preferred over glass for safety. Alcohol is typically allowed for adult passengers; the operator must remain sober, so designate a skipper or book a captained trip if you plan to enjoy drinks. If you’d rather not pack, ask about catering or “dock‑and‑dine” stops in Manatee Pocket or along the river.

Well‑behaved dogs are allowed on some boats at the captain or owner’s discretion. Always check the listing notes, as upholstery rules, size limits, and cleaning fees may apply. Bring a leash, water bowl, towel, and a pet‑sized life jacket. Keep in mind that certain protected beaches and preserve areas accessed by boat may restrict pets, so plan pet‑friendly swim stops like the Stuart Sandbar.

Summer brings warm mornings and frequent afternoon thunderstorms, so earlier departures are best from June through September. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and captains will reschedule or refund when unsafe conditions are forecast. In winter, cold fronts can create breezy afternoons and choppier water. Your captain or host will monitor radar and marine advisories and confirm any weather calls the morning of your trip.

Yes—boats are a favorite venue here. Captained pontoons, tour boats, and small yachts make celebrating simple, with Bluetooth speakers, coolers, and easy swim stops. Share your headcount and vibe—relaxed sandbar, scenic cruise, or sunset cocktail run—and your captain will tailor a route with calm water, photo backdrops, and time for a cake cut or toast. For larger groups, ask about vessels with shade, a marine restroom, and flexible seating.

Stuart is truly year‑round. Peak season is late fall through spring when snowbirds arrive, with extra demand on holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day. January is especially busy during the Stuart Boat Show, and mid‑December brings the local Holiday Boat Parade on the St. Lucie River. Weekdays are easier to book and less crowded at the sandbar; mornings are typically calmer than afternoons. For weekends in peak months, reserve a few weeks ahead; for major holidays or large groups, book earlier.

The Stuart Sandbar is a classic shallow‑water hangout just inside the St. Lucie Inlet with clear water on incoming tides. For a quieter escape, cruise to Peck Lake and walk over to the ocean beach, or plan a longer run to the boardwalk and beach at St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, which is only reachable by water. If inlet conditions look sporty, your captain can shift to river cruising and protected lagoon coves for a smooth day.