The Best Boat Rentals in New Port Richey

Most self-operated pontoons and deck boats in New Port Richey typically run about $60–$100 per hour or roughly $350–$550 for a full day, depending on the boat size, season, and day of the week. Captained center consoles and cruisers often fall between about $100–$175 per hour, while larger or premium yachts with a captain usually start around $200 per hour and go up from there. Your booking commonly includes required safety gear, a basic orientation, Bluetooth audio, and often a cooler; captained trips include the captain’s time and local route planning. Fuel for self-operated boats, taxes, and gratuity are usually extra, and fuel may or may not be included on captained sightseeing routes, so check your listing before you book.

You’ll find easygoing pontoon and tritoon boats for sandbar-hopping, family-friendly deck boats and bowriders for cruising the Cotee River out to the Gulf, center consoles set up for nearshore fishing or scenic runs, and a selection of motor yachts for celebrations with more space and shade. Most options are designed for smooth, shallow Gulf Coast waters and quick access to local islands and sandbars.

If you want a completely hands-off day—especially with a group, a special occasion, or if you’re new to the area—a captained trip is the easiest choice. Local captains handle the shallow flats, tides, and navigation so you can relax. Confident boaters who meet Florida’s safety-education rules often enjoy self-operated pontoons or deck boats for flexible sandbar stops. Either way, your host will review the route, safety gear, and local no‑wake zones before you depart.

Common pickup points include the Sims Park Boat Ramp on Main Street in downtown New Port Richey with direct access to the Pithlachascotee (Cotee) River, Nick’s Park Boat Ramp on Bayview Street in neighboring Port Richey near Miller’s Bayou, and Gulf Harbors Marina along US‑19 in New Port Richey. Some trips also stage from nearby Tarpon Springs’ waterfront to reach the Anclote islands quickly. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed after booking.

Expect a classic Gulf Coast mix of riverfront scenery and open water. You’ll cruise the Cotee River past mangroves and historic downtown, then out toward Green Key (Robert K. Rees Memorial Park), the flats off Gulf Harbors, and popular island stops like Durney Key or the sandbars near Anclote Key. Dolphins are common, manatees show up seasonally in the river and canals, and you’ll spot ospreys, pelicans, herons, and brilliant sunsets on calm evenings.

Florida doesn’t issue a traditional “boating license,” but anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 must carry proof of completing an approved boater-safety course or a Florida temporary boating safety certificate to operate a motorboat of 10 hp or more. Visitors can take the quick online exam to get the 90‑day temporary certificate. If you book a captained charter, you won’t need to operate the boat yourself.

Yes—families are welcome. Every vessel carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all passengers, and Florida law requires children under 6 to wear a life jacket while underway on boats less than 26 feet. If you’re bringing infants or toddlers, let your host know ages and sizes in advance so the right vests are ready; many listings also have shaded seating to keep kids cool.

Most hosts allow you to bring snacks, picnic spreads, and beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice. Cans are generally preferred over glass for safety. If your trip includes a sandbar stop, pack easy, grab‑and‑go items and plenty of water. For self-operated rentals, make sure the designated operator stays alcohol‑free; captains always have the final say on what’s safe onboard.

Many private charters welcome well‑behaved dogs—check your listing and confirm weight or breed limits. If you’re island‑hopping, note that pets are not permitted on Anclote Key Preserve State Park proper; dogs are only allowed on North Anclote Bar. Bring a leash, fresh water, and booties or a mat for hot decks, and plan to rinse your pup after salty swims.

From June through September, quick-moving afternoon thunderstorms are common, and captains may shift your start time to the morning or adjust the route for calmer water. Tropical systems can affect the forecast during hurricane season (June–November). If conditions aren’t safe, most trips will reschedule or cancel per the platform’s weather policy; your captain will monitor radar and keep you posted the day before and the morning of your trip.

Absolutely. Pontoons and deck boats are perfect for 8–12 guests for sandbar swims, chill music, and sunset cruises, while motor yachts add extra lounge space for milestone celebrations. To reduce planning stress, share your headcount, preferred vibe (relaxed cruise vs. party playlist), and any special requests when you inquire, and your captain can suggest ideal departure times and routes.

Peak season runs roughly March through August, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day among the busiest weekends on the water. Spring brings comfortable temps and clear days, summer offers warm swimming and sandbar time, and winter is milder with occasional breezy fronts. Locally, the Chasco Fiesta each spring features a long‑running boat parade on the Cotee River, and December brings the Cotee River Christmas Boat Parade—both weekends book up quickly. Pasco County’s scallop season typically runs July 10 through August 18 and also increases demand. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekdays or morning departures; for golden‑hour photos, target late‑afternoon into sunset if the forecast is clear. On popular weekends and holidays, it’s smart to book a few weeks in advance.

Two favorites are Durney Key, a small spoil‑island hangout just offshore from the Cotee River, and the North Anclote sandbar near Anclote Key, both ideal for swimming and picnics on calmer days. Plan to bring all supplies, pack out your trash, and mind the tides and seagrass beds. If you prefer a guided plan, ask your captain for a simple loop that pairs a scenic river cruise with a sandbar stop and a Gulf‑side sunset ride back to town.