Miami by boat feels like a secret handshake with the city: salt on your skin, skyline glinting, and a soundtrack of engines and seabirds. Whether it’s a lazy day at the sandbar or a sunset cruise past Millionaire’s Row, planning matters. Here’s what to know before you cast off.
Captain or bareboat?
Renting with a captain is the easiest route. You get local knowledge, stress-free navigation, and someone who knows the currents, anchorage rules, and the best photo angles. Captained charters are ideal for groups who want to drink, dine, and relax without worrying about charts. Bareboat rentals (without a captain) can be cheaper and empowering if you or someone in your party is comfortable piloting. But be honest about experience: Miami’s traffic, bridges, and shallow flats can challenge even experienced boaters. Many companies require proof of boating experience or a boater education card (Florida requires boater education for people born on or after Jan 1, 1988), and they’ll often give a quick orientation.
Choosing a rental company
Pick safety and transparency over the flashiest website. Look for up-to-date licensing, clear insurance policies, recent maintenance records, and a solid online reputation. Ask about inspection routines, what’s included (fuel, safety gear, music, slip fees), cancellation policies, and their staff’s local knowledge. A good rental company will walk you through emergency procedures, show you the electronics, and recommend itineraries. Bonus points if they offer pick-up/drop-off at convenient marinas and provide dock-hand assistance.
Typical boat sizes and prices
Miami offers everything from 18-foot center consoles and pontoons to 40+ foot luxury cruisers. Common ranges:
Small boats (18–22 ft): Ideal for 4–6 people. Expect roughly $150–$300 per hour or $300–$700 for a half/full day.
Mid-size boats (25–30 ft): Great for 6–10 people and light entertaining. Around $200–$450 per hour or $700–$1,500+ per day.
Larger yachts and luxury cruisers (35+ ft): For big groups and special occasions. Rates often start around $500–$1,000 per hour, with daily rates from $2,500 to $15,000+ depending on size and amenities.
Yacht rentals
Yacht pricing varies wildly. For a typical charter in Miami, expect averages of $800–$2,500 per hour for mid-range yachts with a captain and crew; daily rates commonly fall between $3,000 and $20,000. High-end superyachts and multi-day charters escalate into five-figure territory. Always confirm what’s included—fuel, crew gratuity, dockage, and provisioning add up.
Best time to rent
Miami’s prime boating season runs December through April—crisp, dry days with calm seas and great visibility. March and April strike a sweet spot: excellent weather, lively energy, and slightly fewer tourists than peak winter holidays. For better deals and quieter marinas, try late spring or November; avoid hurricane season (June–November) unless you’re comfortable managing weather-related cancellations.
Where to cruise and stop
Must-visits by boat: Biscayne Bay and its islands, Haulover Sandbar for floating parties, Stiltsville for a quirky photo-op, and the scenic run past Star Island and Fisher Island. Dock-and-dine favorites include The Rusty Pelican, Seaspice, and Monty’s in Coconut Grove. For a nature escape, head out to Biscayne National Park or paddle Oleta River; for overnight adventure, aim for Key Biscayne or farther south to Islamorada if time allows.
Pack sunscreen, a sense of adventure, and a playlist—Miami’s waters are waiting. Dock, dine, and play: just do it smart, and the city will reward you with unforgettable views.
