Miami’s water culture is addictive: neon skyline at dusk, turquoise bays by day, and endless sandbars where boats anchor and conversations last until the stars show up. Whether you crave a laid-back sunset cruise or a white-knuckle run on a speedboat, Florida’s Magic City delivers. Here’s a practical guide to help you choose the right rental, understand prices and sizes, pick the best time to go, and plan where to explore.
Rent with or without a captain?
If you know how to handle a boat, read the tide and navigate busy channels, a bareboat rental saves money and gives freedom. But if you’re new to Miami waters (or the excitement of steering past cruise ship channels and shallow reefs makes you nervous), hire a captain. Pros: local knowledge, stress-free anchoring at sandbars, improved safety, and a richer tour (tips on landmarks and hidden spots). Cons: added cost and less privacy. Many companies require a captain for larger vessels or if you can’t prove experience—so be realistic about your skills.
What to look for in a Miami boat rental company
Pick professionalism over the cheapest price. Check licensing, up-to-date insurance, and clear contracts. Read recent reviews for reliability and honesty about hidden fees (fuel, cleaning, deposits). Confirm they provide life jackets, radios, and safety briefings. Ask about captain options, cancellation policy, training for beginners, and backup plans for engine trouble. A company with well-maintained boats and friendly, knowledgeable staff makes your day on the water far more enjoyable.
Average prices and boat sizes available
Miami offers everything from 18–24 ft center consoles and bowriders to 22–28 ft pontoons and larger deck boats. Typical pricing:
Small runabouts/center consoles (18–24 ft): $150–300 per hour; half-day $400–900; full day $800–1,800.
Pontoons and deck boats (20–28 ft): $200–350 per hour; half-day $600–1,200; full day $1,000–2,000.
Jet skis: $100–150 per hour.
Rates fluctuate by season and boat condition; fuel and taxes often extra.
Best month to rent boats in Miami
Peak boating season runs November through April for sunny, cooler, low-humidity weather and calmer seas. If you want the sweet spot—warm water, pleasant breezes, and fewer winter crowds—March is ideal. Summer is hot and hurricane season brings risk, but also lower rental prices.
Average yacht rental prices
Yacht charters vary widely. Typical ranges:
Smaller luxury yachts (35–50 ft): $800–2,000 per hour or $2,000–6,000 for a day.
Mid-size yachts (50–80 ft): $2,500–8,000 per day.
Large yachts/superyachts (80+ ft): $10,000–50,000+ per day.
Charters usually include a captain and crew; fuel, docking fees, and gratuity are often extra.
Places to visit by boat
Must-sees include Biscayne Bay (Stiltsville and the sandbars), Millionaire’s Row and Star Island for celebrity homes, South Beach skyline views, Haulover Sandbar for social anchoring, Fisher Island, and Bill Baggs Cape Florida at Key Biscayne for serene beaches and a historic lighthouse. For nature, head to Biscayne National Park and Elliott Key for snorkeling and shallow reefs.
A day on Miami water can be as mellow or as adrenaline-packed as you want. Plan smart, pick a reputable operator, and let the skyline, salt, and sun do the rest.
