Visitors can rent boats all along the chain of Keys islands, everything from kayaks
for paddling through the backcountry flats to powerboats for open-water fishing
expeditions.
Powerboats
Powerboats from 14 to 27 feet are available for sightseers and fishermen, and
are outfitted according to Coast Guard specifications, which includes VHF marine
radios. Choose among pontoons, cuddy cabins, center consoles, bowriders, or
even houseboats for extended stays. Most rental agencies offer half-day and
full-day rental periods, and can restrict which areas of the surrounding waters
the boat may go. In bad weather, these restrictions may be tighter, or boats
may not be allowed out.
Frequently, captains must pass a written or verbal exam on general information
on safe boating. Some rental agencies may also require proof of previous safe
boating experience.
Bring your own nautical maps and other miscellaneous gear. If you run into trouble
offshore, dial VHF channel and call for SeaTow, the boater assistance service
that operates throughout the Keys. The Coast Guard and Florida Marine Patrol
vessels also constantly monitor channel 16.
Boat renters must know the rules of the water, observe no-wake and manatee slow
zones, and not pollute. Stay at least 100 feet from red-and-white diver’s
flags, and avoid damaging sea grass and coral beds—know your boat’s
draft and stay in blue or green water, not brown or white areas. Be aware of
and observe carefully the regulations of the Marine Sanctuary and Wildlife Management
areas, among them popular dive sites Conch Reef and Looe Key.
Beware Florida’s harsh penalties for BUI—boating under the influence—citations.
Boaters are subject to various sobriety tests, and the official BUI limit is
.08 bac, and .02 for operators under the age of 21. Penalties include imprisonment,
fines, mandatory public-service work and substance abuse counseling.
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20 foot Mako rental from Buds Boats, Marathon |
Sailboats
Sailboats can be rented weekly or daily, and often a charter captain is also
available at an additional fee. Many of the sailing and yacht clubs offer courses
in seamanship, and frequently sponsor both small craft and offshore races.
In addition to the two sailing clubs in Key West, classes are offered at the
International Sailing Center on Key Largo at MM 104.5. Choose between a one-day
course and a 2-1/2 day certification course, either for one or two people. The
Offshore Sailing School on Duck Key, MM 61, offers weekend or weeklong versions
of its Learn to Sail certification course. Graduates can earn their cruising
certification during the six-day Liveaboard Cruise to Key West and back.
Personal Watercraft
Something for everyone, from the daring to the tame, can be found in this broad
category. Jet skis, jet boats, Hobie Cats, kayaks, floating lounge chairs, paddleboats,
and two-person glass bottom boats are rented from agencies scattered throughout
the Keys. They’re all great ways to see the Intercoastal backcountry.
Water skiing and parasailing are more ways to enjoy the beauty of the islands
from very different vantage points.
Prices vary widely based on your choice of water sport and whether you’d
like the accompaniment of a guide. Many shops also rent wetsuits and windsurfing
equipment.
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