What is required to rent a boat? You need to be at least 27 years old of age & have a valid photo ID and a major credit card. Also if you were born after January 1st 1988 you need to have the Florida Boater's Education Card or equivalent in another state or country with you.
Florida boaters must have a license to operate motorized watercraft. However, you're more likely to see it called a Boating Safety Education Identification Card. It's a requirement for boat operators born on or after January 1, 1988.
To rent a boat in Florida, you need to complete an approved Boating Safety Course. The FWC website links to approved courses for this. If you were born before January 1, 1988 you are exempt from needing this certificate.
Florida does not have a "boating license." The Boating Safety Education Identification Card is proof of successfully completing the educational requirements and is valid for life.
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, will need a Boating Safety Education ID Card if they want to rent a boat that is 10 horsepower or more. However, as long as at least one member of your party was born before 1988, then you'll be able to rent a boat without needing a Boating Safety Education ID Card.
To boat recreationally in Florida, all you need is a simple safe boater's course. If you want to take on paying customers, however, the U.S. Coast Guard requires you to have an official captain's license.
To rent a boat in Florida, you need to complete an approved Boating Safety Course. The FWC website links to approved courses for this. If you were born before January 1, 1988 you are exempt from needing this certificate.
Consequently, many yacht owners decide to keep the maximum number of guests onboard to 12 (plus crew) for chartering.
In some cases, you can also operate a boat under the supervision of a qualified person, and you won't need a license, either. However, the safest thing you can do to make sure you can rent a boat when you want to is get your Boating Safety Education Identification Card.
The design and amenities vary significantly between party boats and yachts. Party boats are more focused on entertainment features like sound systems and party spaces, whereas yachts prioritize luxury amenities such as fine dining options, plush seating areas, and premium facilities.