Boating in Key Largo offers various experiences, from relaxing cruises to thrilling water adventures. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which surrounds Key Largo, provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. Boat rentals and charters are popular, allowing visitors to explore the diverse marine ecosystem and visit nearby islands and sandbars.

Every boater needs to follow the rules made by their local area, the national government, and the place they're using. If you're using GetMyBoat, you must follow the specific laws where you're boating. This means getting the right permissions and licenses, using the right boats and captains, and making sure you pick up and drop off passengers at the right spots.

To provide assistance, we have compiled essential information for boating in Key Largo.

The 2022 Florida Boating Safety Act (SB 606):

Starting from January 1, 2023, SB 606 is a new law in Florida that focuses on making the waters safer. It makes rules stricter for those who break them, sets up a process for allowing boat rentals, and adds more requirements for how boat rentals should operate

Insurance:

Maintaining passenger safety, safeguarding your business, and adhering to legal and regulatory mandates while operating a boat for hire in Key Largo necessitates having suitable commercial and marine insurance coverage. For expert guidance on essential insurance coverage, we suggest connecting with our trusted partner, Boat Charter Insurance.

Passenger Pick Up/ Drop Off:

Several locations permit boat drop-offs and pickups for rentals, and here are a few with designated passenger areas. Prior to confirming your plans, ensure you verify the pickup and drop-off policies with the marina or dock.

  • Boat Ramp Oceanside Key Largo: Located at 97900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037.
  • Harry Harris Boat Ramp: Located at 50 Beach Rd, Tavernier, FL 33070.

Florida Fish and Wildlife

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is an authority for boat rental companies in Florida. FWC sets and enforces regulations related to boating, fishing, and wildlife preservation, ensuring legal compliance and responsible operations. Resources are provided below for additional information on this agency:

Licensing and Permitting

Boating Regulations

License Requirements for Charter Captains:

  • A Charter Captain or Boat License is necessary when carrying paying customers for saltwater fishing activities. Compliance with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations is mandatory to be a saltwater fishing guide in Florida.
  • Operators of for-hire vessels must possess a U.S. Coast Guard Captain License/Merchant Mariner Credential.
  • Charter Captain Licenses enable licensed captains to conduct business across different boats. Valid Coast Guard licenses and proper vessel commercial registration are prerequisites for obtaining these licenses.

Getmyboat is a partnered Mariners Learning System that can help obtain proper licensing. The most common captain license is the OUPV Six Pack License. Use the promo code GETMYBOAT10 for 10% off all products.

Obtaining Licenses:

Getmyboat is a partnered Mariners Learning System that can help obtain proper licensing. The most common captain license is the OUPV Six Pack License.