The Best Boat Rentals in Delray Beach

Most small powerboats such as pontoons, deck boats, and center consoles run about $100–$200 per hour, with half-day totals often $400–$1,200. Captained motor yachts commonly range from about $300 up to $900+ per hour depending on size, day of week, and season, with half days from roughly $1,200–$2,500+. Listing prices usually include U.S. Coast Guard–approved safety gear and basic equipment; many captained trips provide a cooler with ice and bottled water. Fuel may be included for idle-speed cruising on the Intracoastal or charged separately based on your route and speed. Taxes, platform fees, and captain gratuity are additional; 15–20% is customary for great service.

You’ll find easygoing pontoons for cruising and sandbar stops, versatile deck boats and center consoles for sightseeing or light fishing, classic sailboats for a breezy afternoon, and motor yachts for celebrations and sunset cruises. If your group wants more shade, seating, and a smoother ride on the Intracoastal Waterway, look at larger pontoons or catamaran-style yachts. For offshore fishing or snorkeling days, captained center consoles and sportfishers are popular when conditions allow.

Florida does not issue a traditional “boating license,” but if you plan to drive the boat yourself and were born on or after January 1, 1988, you must carry a Florida Boating Safety Education ID card or a temporary certificate, plus photo ID. If you book a captained charter, the licensed captain operates the vessel and you won’t need to meet the operator requirement yourself. Always bring valid ID to the dock either way.

Most planners choose a captained trip because it makes the day effortless—your captain handles navigation, bridges, tides, and no‑wake zones and can suggest the best itinerary for sandbars, waterfront dining, or calm-water cruising. Self-operated rentals can be a good fit for experienced boaters who know the Intracoastal rules and want full control of the route. If you’re organizing a special occasion or mixed‑age group, a captained charter is usually the smoothest option.

Common meeting points include the Delray Beach City Marina on Marine Way along the Intracoastal, the docks by Veterans Park next to the Atlantic Avenue Bridge, and the public boat ramps at Knowles Park on South Federal Highway. Many captained trips also stage just north at Boynton Harbor Marina in Boynton Beach, a full‑service facility near the Boynton Inlet. Your exact pickup will be shown on the listing and in your booking confirmation.

Expect relaxed Intracoastal scenery with palm‑lined waterways, elegant homes in Delray and Gulf Stream, and great views of the Atlantic Avenue drawbridge and waterfront restaurants. Wildlife sightings can include seabirds year‑round and manatees in the cooler months. On calm days, captains may cruise past the Boynton Inlet or head south toward the popular Lake Boca sandbar. Offshore on suitable seas, some trips can position near the historic “Delray Wreck” (SS Inchulva) for snorkeling with a guide.

Yes—families are welcome. Every boat carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all passengers, and children’s sizes are typically available. Florida law requires children under 6 to wear a life jacket while underway on vessels under 26 feet; captains will advise when jackets must be worn. Strollers are usually left on the dock, so bring soft bags, sun protection, and snacks. If you need infant or toddler PFD sizes, message the owner in advance to confirm availability.

Most charters are BYO for snacks and beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice. Beer, wine, and seltzers are generally fine for guests 21+; hard liquor and glass are often discouraged for safety. If you plan to dock for lunch, captains can suggest waterfront spots near the Atlantic Avenue Bridge or farther along the Intracoastal. Always review your listing’s rules for catering, red wine, or decorations if you’re celebrating.

Some owners gladly welcome well‑behaved dogs, while others restrict pets due to upholstery and safety concerns. If your pup is coming, request approval when you inquire, bring a non‑slip mat and towel, and consider a properly sized pet life jacket. Note that certain marinas and restaurants have their own rules about animals on docks and patios.

South Florida’s wet season runs late spring through early fall, with quick afternoon thunderstorms and summer sea breezes. Licensed captains continuously monitor conditions and will adjust the route, delay departure, or reschedule if lightning, strong winds, or rough inlets make boating unsafe. During Atlantic hurricane season (June 1–November 30), operators follow conservative safety policies. Your listing outlines its specific cancellation or weather‑reschedule terms; if a serious system is forecast, plan to decide with your captain a day in advance.

Absolutely. Captained pontoons and motor yachts are perfect for milestone birthdays, bachelorettes, reunions, or client outings. Typical plans include a scenic Intracoastal cruise, a swim stop or sandbar raft‑up, and a dock‑and‑dine along Atlantic Avenue. To keep planning simple, confirm guest count early, bring decorations that secure without tape or confetti, and pre‑arrange playlists, cupcakes, and toast supplies with your captain.

Peak boating season is roughly November through April for mild air and lower rain chances, while summer offers warm water and lively sandbar scenes but a higher chance of brief afternoon storms. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early and carry holiday pricing. A beloved local highlight is the Boynton Beach & Delray Beach Holiday Boat Parade along the Intracoastal in early December. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekdays over weekends and morning departures over afternoons, especially in summer.

Yes—on suitable weather and tide windows. Lake Boca (also called Boca Lake) is a short cruise south on the Intracoastal and is a favorite shallow‑water anchoring spot. Snorkeling the “Delray Wreck” offshore is possible only when seas are calm; your captain will bring a dive flag and keep a safe distance while you float over the site. Always follow crew instructions, use only cans or reusable bottles at sandbars, and never touch reefs or wildlife.