Florida’s Top 10 Boating Cities for Spring: Newly Released Data from Boatsetter

This report includes exclusive insights on year-over-year booking trends, top boat types, popular amenities, and unique destinations to help guide boating enthusiasts to their next unforgettable experience.

Our Methodology

This report leverages proprietary data from Boatsetter, the leading mobile app for boat rentals, charters, and on-water experiences, to showcase the top 10 boating cities for Spring in Florida. Our data team analyzed booking trends on our platform from March 1 through April 30, highlighting average rental prices, most popular boat types, pre-booking for spring, and the unique attractions that make each city stand out. Only bookings with verified reviews and consistent activity were considered to ensure the accuracy of our insights.

Top 10 Cities in Florida for Spring Boating

1. Miami

• Average hourly rental price: $265
• Average total trip price: $1,008
• Most popular style of boat: Motor Yacht

Miami remains Florida’s top boating destinations, with 46% of all spring bookings in 2024. Whether cruising Biscayne Bay or exploring the Intracoastal Waterway, spring brings perfect weather and vibrant energy to these iconic spots. Motor yachts dominate bookings, offering a luxurious way to soak up the South Florida sun. Trips lasting 4 hours are the most popular, making Miami ideal for a half-day escape.

2. Fort Lauderdale

• Average hourly rental price: $240
• Average total trip price: $970
• Most popular style of boat: Motor Yacht

Dubbed the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale offers a vast canal system perfect for springtime cruising. As temperatures rise, boaters can explore Millionaire’s Row, cruise the Intracoastal Waterway, or take a yacht out to deeper waters. The Las Olas Wine & Food Festival in April is the perfect way to experience Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant culinary scene after a day on the water.

3. St Petersburg 

• Average hourly rental price: $178
• Average total trip price: $887
• Most popular style of boat: Pontoon

The St. Petersburg area continues to grow, with bookings up 19% YoY in 2024. Often considered a “dupe” for Miami, St Petersburg offers similar experiences with a laid-back vibe. Pontoon boats are a favorite for exploring the calm waters, whether for family outings or relaxed fishing trips. Floating mats, coolers, and ice are among the top amenities Guests opt for in this area.

4. Clearwater

• Average hourly rental price: $161
• Average total trip price: $692
• Most popular style of boat: Pontoon

Known for its powder-white sand beaches, Clearwater is a spring break favorite. The calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway make it ideal for family-friendly boating, island hopping, or fishing for tarpon and snook. Spring also brings the Sugar Sand Festival, a month-long celebration of Clearwater Beach’s famous sands.

5.  West Palm Beach

• Average hourly rental price: $143
• Average total trip price: $754
• Most popular style of boat: Center Console

Known for its mix of luxury and adventure, West Palm Beach is a top choice for spring 2025. With 7% of bookings, the area attracts anglers with its access to offshore fishing and proximity to Lake Okeechobee for world-class bass fishing. Whether you’re after deep-sea excitement or freshwater serenity, West Palm has it all. Pontoon boats remain a great budget-friendly option, averaging $87 per passenger.

6. Pompano Beach

• Average hourly rental price: $158
• Average total trip price: $662
• Most popular style of boat: Deck Boat

Pompano Beach is an underrated gem for boaters in the spring. The warm, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, fishing, or cruising the Intracoastal Waterway. The city also hosts the Pompano Beach Seafood Festival in April, giving boaters the perfect excuse to dock and dine.

7. Sarasota

• Average hourly rental price: $188
• Average total trip price: $1,007
• Most popular style of boat: Pontoon

Sarasota’s tranquil waters and vibrant marine life make it a must-visit for spring boaters. Paddleboarding, wildlife spotting, and cruising Siesta Key are just a few highlights. Bookings were up 17% YoY, reflecting its growing popularity. Multi-day rentals are also seeing an uptick here, ideal for travelers extending their stays.

8. Cape Coral

• Average hourly rental price: $88
• Average total trip price: $572
• Most popular style of boat: Pontoon

Cape Coral’s extensive canal system makes it an ideal spring boating destination. Visitors can rent a pontoon to explore the area’s waterfront homes, take a short trip to nearby islands, or fish for redfish and snook. With comfortable spring temperatures, Cape Coral offers a relaxed, crowd-free alternative to Florida’s busier hotspots.

9. Naples

• Average hourly rental price: $279
• Average total trip price: $1,140
• Most popular style of boat: Deck Boat

Naples offers a quieter spring break experience, ideal for scenic coastal cruises and fishing excursions. Its calm, picturesque waterways saw an 11% YoY increase in bookings. Visitors often take advantage of trips lasting 6 hours, enjoying a full day of relaxation on the water.

10. Upper Florida Keys

• Average hourly rental price: $132
• Average total trip price: $794
• Most popular style of boat: Center Console

Spring in the Upper Florida Keys brings incredible fishing, snorkeling, and sandbar hopping opportunities. Whether boating from Key Largo to Islamorada, stopping at the famous Islamorada Sandbar, or exploring coral reefs, the Keys offer endless adventure. The Keys’ peak fishing season kicks off in the spring, making this a must-visit for anglers.

In Summary

Florida’s spring boating season is shaping up to be unforgettable, with something for every traveler. From luxurious yacht cruises in Miami to laid-back fishing in West Palm Beach, the Sunshine State’s waterways promise endless adventures. March and April  bring optimal conditions for a memorable spring boating experience. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Boatsetter’s data-driven insights make it clear that spring is the perfect time to discover why these cities are among the best for boating in the state.

Citing This Report

Media professionals are encouraged to use this data for reporting, with appropriate citation and a link to Boatsetter. For additional data, insights, or press inquiries, please contact Lacee Moon at lrudd@boatsetter.com. Our team is happy to provide further analysis, quotes, and any other information needed for your story.

About Boatsetter:
With thousands of vetted boat listings worldwide, Boatsetter is the leading marketplace for boat rentals and on-the-water experiences. From pontoons to yachts, for lake days or weekend getaways, guests can find a boat for any occasion. Many guests book a boat with a USCG-certified captain or an expert guide, to explore the waterways with ease. Credited with pioneering the first-ever peer-to-peer boat rental insurance policy, Boatsetter has empowered boat owners with the tools and support to become entrepreneurs on the water. Launched commercially in 2014, over one million boaters and boat owners alike have turned to Boatsetter to discover the endless possibilities the water provides.

Media Contacts:
Lacee Moon
Communications Manager
lrudd@boatsetter.com