Best Boat Rentals Near Key West, FL

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Best Boat Rentals Near Key West, FL


Top boat rental reviews in Key West, FL

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How to rent a boat in Key West?

1

Find the perfect boat

Enter your desired location and date to explore our fleet of boat, Key West, FL, United Statess.

2

Select a captain

Choose to drive yourself or select a USCG licensed captain.

3

Book with ease

Connect with your boat owner and complete your booking online.

4

Set sail

Enjoy your day on the water with friends and family!


Rent a Boat in Key West

Florida may have some of the most popular destinations in the country for boaters, but it’s hard to beat Key West, Florida, for its combination of beautiful weather, crystal clear waters, and the Caribbean atmosphere of the Conch Republic.
Rent a boat in Key West, and you will find endless opportunities to sail, fish, paddle, and explore both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. From remote sandbars to lively marinas, Key West offers plenty of places to dock, anchor, or moor your boat.
Key West is home to some of the country’s best sunsets, terrific waterfront restaurants, and an endless list of things to enjoy by boat. This tropical paradise offers some of the best boating experiences in the United States.

What To Know

Also known as the Southernmost Point in the Continental United States, Key West has no shortage of sunny days. Summer days can land in the mid to high 90’s, while winter temps usually hit the high 70’s and low 80’s.
Spring and Fall seasons bring some of the area's most comfortable temperatures, but it’s important to remember that the hurricane season runs from mid-summer into early fall and plan accordingly.
Almost every type of boat can be seen at the docks in Key West, including big sportfishing boats and convertibles for chasing big pelagic species in the Atlantic. Flats skiffs are also popular with those looking to try their luck in the tidal waters around area islands.
Center console boats of all sizes are also a popular choice for fishing, diving, snorkeling, or just cruising from place to place, but you’ll also find runabouts, bowriders, ski boats, and the ever-popular pontoons available for spending a great day out on the water.

Safety Requirements:

Boating License/Education Rules: Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, who operates a vessel powered by 10 horsepower or more must pass an approved boater safety course and have in his/her possession photographic identification and a boating safety education identification card issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Life Jacket Requirements: Children ages 6 and under must wear a personal floatation device (PFD). Visit the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission to learn more.

Where to dock your boat or meet your rental:

h4> Key West boaters will find the island is full of great resources like marinas, launch ramps, and docks. Pick up and drop off at any of the following spots.
- City Marina At Garrison Bight
- Sunset Marina
- Conch Harbor Marina
- Galleon Marina
- A & B Marina

Weather Conditions

Key West, Florida is known for its consistent tropical climate, making it comfortable for boaters to explore any time of year. Temperatures remain relatively consistent throughout the year, with an average of 80°F in January and 89°F in August, although it is usually humid during the summer.
Summer can bring frequent thunderstorms and even occasional waterspouts, while the tropical hurricane season also starts in June and ends in November.
It is also important to remember the Key West sun can be brutal in the summer, so before heading out on the water, always check the weather forecast, carry appropriate gear and plenty of water, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.
- Avg. Temperature High: August is Key West’s hottest month with averages around 90°F
- Avg. Temperature Low: January can bring low temps down around 74°F
- Avg. Water Temperatures in Key West
-- 83°F to 86°F in the Summer (June, July, August)
-- 75°F to 82°F in Spring (March, April, May)
-- 80°F to 85°F in Fall (September, October, November)
-- 72°F to 76°F in Winter (December, January, February)


Things to Do in Key West, FL by Boat

Go Diving or Snorkeling

The area around the Florida Keys and Key West is dotted with gorgeous natural marine habitats, reefs, and shipwrecks, making it an incredible underwater environment to explore. Although diving will let you stay below longer, most of the area’s most stunning attractions are easily accessible with a mask, fins, and a snorkel.
Boaters can easily access locations like Looe Key, an outstanding reef located 6 miles from nearby Big Pine Key. With a maximum depth of 30 feet, Looe Key is perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Located around 7 miles from Key West, Sand Key Lighthouse is known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Other great spots include Sombrero Reef near Marathon and the Key West National Wildlife Refuge, which contains a vast area of mangroves and seagrass beds. Snorkelers and divers can expect to see vibrant and healthy corals and a wide variety of fish species such as parrotfish, angelfish, cuttlefish, octopus, many colorful tropical species, and barracuda.
Boat selection: Anything that provides easy access to the water, such as pontoons, runabouts, center consoles, aluminum fishing boats, and bowriders.
Closest boat ramp: Lake Country Boat Ramp, Eagle Mountain Marina, Pelican Bay Boat Ramp, Wise County Boat Ramp
Pro Tip: Go with a group from one of the local dive shops to safely discover the most beautiful locations to snorkel and dive in the Florida Keys.

Lat/Long: 24.53261° N, -81.78777° W

Go Fishing

There are few better places to go fishing in the world than the Florida Keys and Key West. Anglers have easy access to the Atlantic Ocean’s depths, the Gulf of Mexico’s variety, and the abundant fish that can be found on the tidal flats, the mangroves, and the surrounding reefs.
Rent a small boat, and it’s easy to stay close to shore, but that doesn’t mean the fish are smaller. Shark, cobia, and tarpon are big enough to strip the line from a reel. Head out to one of the reefs and drop big bait down to the bottom for table-worthy grouper, snapper, and yellowtail. Or, sneak back into the beautiful mangroves for snook and redfish.
No matter what kind of boat you have access to or what species of fish you’re after, you can easily find plenty to catch in the beautiful tropical waters around Key West.
Area Fish Species: Almost too many to list.
Inshore: Tarpon, cobia, bonefish, snook, snapper, grouper, shark, redfish, barracuda, and more
Offshore: Snapper, grouper, shark, yellowtail, barracuda, Mahi-Mahi, wahoo, tripletail, sheepshead, mackerel, and more.
Pro Tip: Hire a guide or go with a group the first time out to discover the best hot spots and find out what bait and tackle works best.
Closest boat ramp: There are ramps all around Key West, but some of the most popular spots are the 11th Street Public Boat Ramp, City Marina At Garrison Bight, Key Haven Boat Ramp, and Oceanside Marina.
Lat/Long: 24.59219° N, -81.78014° W

Go for a Sunset Cruise


Key West is well-known for its stunning sunsets, which can be seen from a variety of spots on land, such as Mallory Square. Wander down to the waterfront any clear evening, and you’ll find a sunset celebration happening, complete with jugglers, human statues, and other fun acts.
However, to truly appreciate the beautiful colors of a tropical sunset in Key West, there’s no place better than out on a boat. Whether you plan to drop the anchor or drift and dream, pack some snacks and your favorite refreshments, load up the boat with friends and family, and head out to experience a Key West Sunset. If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of the legendary Green Flash.
Pro Tip: The summer sun in Key West can be brutal, so be sure to plan accordingly. Remember to bring sunscreen and some kind of cover to avoid sunburn and carry more water than you think you need. Pay close attention to the weather and always file a float plan with friends or relatives to ensure everyone gets home safe and sound.
Closest boat ramp: Some of the most popular Key West launch spots are the City Marina At Garrison Bight, Key Haven Boat Ramp, 11th Street Public Boat Ramp, and Oceanside Marina.
Lat/Long: 24.55359° N, -81.84631° W

Explore

Where to Go Boating in Key West, FL

Key West Harbor

Key West Harbor is one of the most popular boating destinations in the Florida Keys. Located in the heart of Old Town, the harbor offers easy access to the historic waterfront, restaurants, bars, and shops. You can anchor your boat just off Mallory Square and watch the famous sunset celebration or tie up at a dock slip in the Key West Bight Marina.
While in the harbor, don't forget to visit the Key West Aquarium and the Shipwreck Treasure Museum.
Closest Boat Ramp: Key West Bight Marina, Galleon Marina, Garrison Bight Marina
Wake Zone: Marinas, boat ramps, and many inshore waterways are marked as No Wake Zones. Pay attention to warning signs and buoys and, above all else, be courteous to other boaters, swimmers, and the area wildlife. When in doubt, please slow down.
Lat/Long: 24.56226° N, -81.80228° W

Boca Chica Channel

If you are looking for a more secluded boating experience, head to the Boca Chica Channel, a narrow strip of water that connects the Gulf of Mexico to the backcountry of the Lower Keys. The channel is flanked by mangrove islands, sandbars, and shallow flats, making it a perfect spot for fly fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
You can anchor your boat at Boca Chica Beach, a hidden gem with crystal clear waters and soft white sand. If you are lucky, you might spot some dolphins or sea turtles swimming by.
Nearby Marinas: Boca Chica Marina, Stock Island Yacht Club & Marina, Robbie's of Key West Marina
Closest Boat Ramp: Oceanside Marina, Key Haven Boat Ramp, Cow Key Marina
Wake Zone: Watch for posted No Wake Zones around boat ramps, marinas, and channels, but even where none exist, please be courteous to other boaters and swimmers, and use caution around area wildlife.
Lat/Long: 24.57614° N, -81.71806° W

Marquesas Keys

Located 20 miles west of Key West, the Marquesas Keys are a cluster of small islands surrounded by shallow lagoons, seagrass beds, and shipwrecks, making them a perfect spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.
You can anchor your boat at one of the protected coves and spend the day exploring the islands, sunbathing on the beach, or watching the wildlife, which includes pelicans, herons, and ospreys.
The Marquesas Keys are also popular among artists and writers who seek inspiration from the unspoiled beauty of the islands.
Please remember a 20-mile boat trip should not be taken lightly so be sure to watch the weather. It may be best to go with a local boat tour or guide to ensure everyone’s safety.
Nearby Marinas: Depart from Galleon Marina, Key West Bight Marina, Conch Harbor Marina
Closest Boat Ramp: Key West Bight Marina, Garrison Bight Marina
Pro Tip: The summer sun in Key West can be very hot so be sure to plan accordingly. Bring sunscreen and some kind of cover to avoid sunburn, and always carry more water than you think you need. Pay close attention to the weather and always file a float plan with friends or relatives to ensure everyone gets home safe and sound.
Lat/Long: 24.56848° N, -82.13400° W



Got questions?

Frequently asked questions

How much is it to rent a boat in Key West?

The cost to rent a boat in Key West for a half-day starts at $56 per hour. Boats can be rented in the keys with or without a captain.

Can you snorkel in Key West?

Snorkeling is a popular tourist activity. There are many ways to see the coral reefs right off the coast of Key West, from single-hour excursions to full-day excursions.

How to rent a boat on Boatsetter?

At Boatsetter, our mission is to make getting out on the water as easy as possible. With our intuitive booking system, you can rent a boat as soon as today. -First, you must determine your budget and the type of boat you want to rent. -Next, decide where you would like to boat and the kind of boat you would like to spend the day on. -Finally, determine if you will be needing a boat captain and reach out to the boat owner. That's it! You're officially on your way to a fantastic day out on the water.

How many people can fit on the boat rental?

The number of people who can fit on boat rental largely depends on the boat's size and how many life jackets are on board. Currently the coast guard allows a maximum of 10-12 people on a Boatsetter boat rental.

How much does it cost to rent a yacht?

The cost of renting a yacht depends on the boat's size and the amount of time you'll use the yacht. The onboard amenities and luxurious accommodations also dictate the price. You can contact our yacht specialists for a custom quote by visiting: https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters

How old do you have to be to rent a boat in Key West?

You must be 18 years old to rent a captained boat and 25 years old if you would like to rent a bareboat charter.

Do I need a boating license to rent a boat?

Boating license requirements vary from state to state. As a renter, you are responsible for understanding local state requirements.

Can you rent a yacht in Key West for the day?

Boatsetter allows you to rent a yacht for the day. Single-day yacht rentals are available for a select number of yachts. To chat with a yacht specialist please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters

Can you rent a yacht for the week?

Boatsetter allows its customers to rent a yacht for the week. Renting a yacht for a week gives you more access to the wide range of yachts available on our platform. You can either book a rental directly through the site or connect with one of our charter specialists to plan your trip here: https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters

Can you rent a yacht for the month?

Booking a month-long yacht rental is a detailed and hands-off process when working with our team of yacht charter specialists. We tailor each yacht charter to our client's specific wants and needs. Our luxury yacht charter specialists can be reached at (954) 715-4114 or by visiting https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters

How to rent a private yacht?

Renting a private yacht is a very detailed experience that caters to your exact needs while onboard one of our luxury yachts. To plan your private yacht rentals experience please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters

How much does it cost to rent a pontoon boat ?

The cost of renting a pontoon boat depends on the size, location, and rental time of the boat. Prices can range anywhere from $200 for a half-day rental or just under a $1,000 for longer rentals.

How much does it cost to charter a yacht?

The cost to charter a yacht varies depending on the boat size and the length of the charter. Prices typically range from less than $1,000 to $5,000 plus if you're wanting to charter the yacht overnight.

How much does it cost to rent a boat for the day?

The cost of renting a boat for the day on average ranges from $200 to $1200. The cost to rent a boat varies depending on the size of the boat and the length of time that you will be using the boat.

How does the boat insurance work?

Boat insurance typically covers loss caused by things such as fire, sinking, storms, and collisions. The extent of the coverage varies depending on the policy.

Do I need my own insurance to rent a boat?

You do not need boat insurance when renting with Boatsetter. Coverage is provided under the Peer-to-Peer Boat Rental Policy, which is underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. The policy was written from the ground up as a stand-alone recreational boat rental insurance policy covering the period of time that the boat is being rented and is available for all non-commercially insured boats.

Does Boatsetter screen renters?

Yes. We use a system called Cognito to ensure that payment information matches the renter's identity. We also require renters taking out a captained boat to be at least 18 years old and on a bareboat to be at least 25 years old.

Is listing my boat on Boatsetter free?

Yes! Listing a boat is completely free. We only take a commission when your boat is rented. We only make money when you do!

What if I'm not comfortable having a renter drive my boat?

If you are not comfortable having a renter drive your boat, we have an expansive network of licensed and experienced captains. Once your boat is listed, you can filter through our network of captains and favorite captains in your area that you would like to operate your boat.

How much does it cost to rent a boat?

The cost to rent a boat depends on whether you are renting for a half-day or a full day, the boat features and the boat size can impact your boat rental price. Rental prices can range from $200 to $1,000 plus depending on the boat rental itself and the length of time of the rental.


Boat rentals in Key West, FL



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