The Best Boat Rentals in Saint Pete Beach

Most trip planners can expect small motorboats such as pontoons, deck boats, and bowriders to run about $350–$600 for a 4‑hour outing and roughly $500–$900 for a full day, depending on size, season, and whether a captain is included. Private captained sightseeing or dolphin cruises around Boca Ciega Bay commonly range from about $400–$1,000 for 2–4 hours. Fishing charters often start near $600 for a half day and can reach $1,200+ for longer trips. Larger sailboats, catamarans, and motor yachts for celebrations usually begin around $1,200–$1,800 for a half day and go up from there. Your booking generally includes U.S. Coast Guard–required safety gear and basic onboard amenities; captained charters often add a cooler with ice and water, and some include fuel, while self‑operated rentals may charge fuel separately and require a refundable deposit.

You’ll find an easy mix: family‑friendly pontoons and deck boats for sandbar time, center consoles and bowriders for cruising and fishing, sailing monohulls and catamarans for relaxed bay sails, and mid‑size to luxury motor yachts for birthdays and bachelor or bachelorette outings. You’ll also see specialty options like tiki or party pontoons designed for groups. Choose based on group size, comfort level, and whether you prefer to relax with a captain or drive yourself.

Florida does not issue a traditional “boating license,” but anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 must complete an approved boater safety course and carry a Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card (or an approved temporary certificate with photo ID) to operate a motorboat of 10 horsepower or more. If you book a captained charter, the captain operates the vessel and guests don’t need this credential.

Common meet‑ups include Pass‑a‑Grille Marina at the south end of Saint Pete Beach and the nearby Merry Pier area in Pass‑a‑Grille, which is a long‑time launch point for fishing and Shell Key trips. Just over the bridge, Tierra Verde Marina Resort serves Tampa Bay, Shell Key, and Egmont Key routes, while Gulfport Municipal Marina on Boca Ciega Bay is a handy pickup for cruises inside the Intracoastal. Many dolphin and sightseeing boats also depart a few minutes north from John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk in Madeira Beach. Your confirmation will list the exact dock and check‑in details.

Expect postcard views of white‑sand barrier islands, especially Shell Key Preserve’s clear shallows and the historic lighthouse and fort ruins on boat‑access‑only Egmont Key State Park. It’s common to spot wild bottlenose dolphins in Boca Ciega Bay year‑round and, in warmer months, the occasional manatee near slow‑speed zones. Cruises may pass Fort De Soto’s beaches and, on bay routes, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge—at sunset some trips time the illuminated light display. Wildlife is never guaranteed, but local waters offer frequent sightings and dramatic Gulf sunsets.

Yes—Saint Pete Beach boat trips are very family‑friendly. Every vessel must carry a properly sized U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for each person onboard, and Florida law requires children under 6 to wear a life jacket whenever a vessel under 26 feet is underway. Tell your host the ages and approximate weights of children so they can stage the right sizes. Bring sun protection, snacks, and any infant/toddler gear you prefer; compact soft bags are easiest to stow on smaller boats.

Most charters welcome BYO snacks, picnic items, and beverages, and many supply a cooler with ice. Cans and reusable bottles are preferred; glass is often discouraged for safety. Passengers 21+ may usually enjoy alcoholic beverages, but the operator must remain sober. If your itinerary includes stepping ashore at Shell Key Preserve or Egmont Key, plan to keep the party on the boat—both islands prohibit alcohol and have no food or water for sale, so pack plenty of water and carry out all trash.

Many private captains allow well‑behaved dogs with advance notice, especially on pontoons and deck boats. Policies vary by vessel, and pet fees or cleaning rules may apply. If you plan to visit the islands, note that pets are not allowed on Egmont Key State Park or anywhere in Shell Key Preserve. If your dog is coming along, choose routes that keep you aboard or plan beach time at dog‑friendly mainland spots instead.

From late May into early October, the region’s rainy season brings frequent, brief afternoon thunderstorms and summer sea breezes; mornings are typically calmer and a great choice for smooth water and wildlife viewing. Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, so operators watch forecasts closely and may reschedule or cancel for safety if storms, high winds, or lightning are expected. If you’re launching from public ramps such as Fort De Soto, allow extra time—some dock amenities have been limited in recent seasons due to storm damage. Build a little flexibility into your plan, and review your charter’s weather and cancellation policy before booking.

Choose a captained trip if you want a turn‑key day—no navigation, docking, or local rules to manage—and especially if celebrating with a group. Captains know the passes, tides, and shallow flats around places like Bunces Pass, Pass‑a‑Grille Channel, and John’s Pass, which makes the day smoother. Confident boaters who meet Florida’s boater‑education rules can self‑operate smaller pontoons and deck boats; plan conservative routes, keep an eye on weather, and expect a security deposit and fuel charges. For milestone events or tight schedules, a captain is the stress‑free option.

Absolutely. Popular picks include party pontoons for sandbar hangouts, private dolphin and sunset cruises, sailboat charters on Tampa Bay, and mid‑size yachts for catered celebrations. Captains can suggest photo stops by the Don CeSar, Shell Key, or the Sunshine Skyway Bridge at dusk. Share your headcount and vibe—relaxed cruise versus high‑energy sandbar—and ask about add‑ons like float mats, playlists, or dock‑and‑dine stops. Weekend and holiday slots book fastest, so reserve early.

For the calmest conditions, aim for morning departures year‑round. Peak season runs roughly March through August, with the biggest boating spikes on Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends. Downtown waterfront activity surges during the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg in early March, and John’s Pass Seafood Festival draws large crowds at the boardwalk area; in 2025 it ran March 28–30 with a return to late October dates the same year. Spring and fall bring warm water with lighter crowds, while winter offers crisp, clear days punctuated by occasional cold fronts—great for sightseeing and sunsets.

Two local classics anchor most itineraries. Shell Key Preserve delivers clear, shallow water and wide beaches ideal for shelling and swimming; it’s pristine and boat‑access only, with no pets or alcohol allowed ashore. Egmont Key State Park is another favorite for snorkeling the near‑shore ruins and walking the historic lighthouse area; it’s also boat‑access only and has no services, so bring water and essentials. Many groups pair a Shell Key beach stop with a Bunces Pass sandbar hangout, or time a bay cruise to catch the Sunshine Skyway Bridge light display after sunset.