Rent a Boat in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, located just 30-miles north of Miami, is known by many across the globe as the “Yachting Capital of the World.” Its 165-mile waterways coupled with Florida’s year-round sunshine make this one of the most popular boating destinations in the United States. Host to the world’s largest in-water boat show—the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show—locals and visitors alike are drawn to the local waterways, sandbars, and gorgeous beaches. Up and down the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), you’ll see a mix of water taxis, local boaters and anglers, luxurious superyachts, and even Venetian gondolas.

What to Know

When planning your rent a boat or book an on-water experience in Fort Lauderdale, consider these popular boat rental styles: 

• As the ‘yachting capital of the world,’ you can probably guess that motor yachts and cruisers are a hot comedy around these waterways. Perfect for larger groups and corporate events, most of these rentals will come with a professional captain.

• Pontoon boats and other day boats, like bowriders, deck boats, and jet boats, are best suited for exploring the local sandbars and dock-and-dining along the New River.

Safety Requirements:

• Boating License/Education Rules: All Florida residents born after January 1, 1988 who operate vessels with 10-horsepower or more must carry a Florida Boating Safety Education identification card. You must be at least 14 years of age to operate a personal watercraft (PWC).

• Life Jacket Requirements: Children ages 6 and under must wear a PFD.

For more information, visit the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Where to dock your boat, or meet your rental:

• Pier Sixty-Six Marina 

• Las Olas Marina

• Bahia Mar Yachting Center 

• New River Downtown Docks 

• Marina Bay Marina

To learn more, be sure to read this Fort Lauderdale Boating Guide.

Weather Conditions

In Fort Lauderdale, the summers are hot and humid; while, winters are slightly cooler but mild. Also, skies during winter months are mostly clear, but boaters should be aware of Florida’s active hurricane season that runs through . The best climate in Fort Lauderdale for warm-weather activities is from early November to early May.

Avg. Temperature High: Peaks around 89°F in August 

Avg. Temperature Low: Around 62°F during January 

Avg. Water Temperatures in and around Fort Lauderdale:

• 75°F in the Spring (March, April, May)

• 83°F in the Summer (June, July, August)

• 80°F in Fall (September, October, November)

• 68°F in Winter (December, January, February)