The Best Boat Rentals in West Palm Beach

Most small motorboats and pontoons run about $75–$150 per hour, with half-day outings typically $350–$700. Center consoles, deck boats, and inshore fishing trips are commonly $100–$250 per hour. Mid-size cruisers and smaller yachts (around 35–55 feet) generally range from $250–$600 per hour, and larger luxury yachts can be $600–$1,200+ per hour with multi-hour minimums. Listings often include U.S. Coast Guard–required safety gear, a cooler with ice, bottled water, and basic float toys; fuel, a captain, and gratuity may be included or itemized, so check each listing before you book.

You’ll find a wide mix for any plan: roomy pontoons and deck boats for sandbar days, center consoles for cruising or nearshore fishing, sailboats for a relaxed afternoon under canvas, and motor yachts for celebrations and sightseeing. Party-ready catamarans and spacious flybridge yachts are popular for groups that want extra shade, seating, and a smooth ride.

If you want a turn-key day where the local pro handles navigation, docking, and itinerary, book with a captain. It’s especially helpful for group events or first-time visitors. Confident boaters can book self-operated options; just be sure you meet Florida’s boater-education rules and are comfortable with area channels, tides, and sandbars. Many renters do a captained trip first, then return for a DIY day once they know the waters.

Common pickup points include the Downtown West Palm Beach City Docks along Flagler Drive near Clematis Street, Palm Harbor Marina in downtown, Riviera Beach Marina Village by the Lake Worth Inlet, and Sailfish Marina on Palm Beach Shores (Singer Island). Popular trailer-friendly ramps include Phil Foster Park in Riviera Beach and Currie Park in West Palm Beach; some trips may also stage from Lake Park Harbor Marina just north of downtown.

Expect postcard views of Lake Worth Lagoon, Peanut Island and the inlet, the skyline and palm-lined promenade along Flagler Drive, and stately waterfront homes on Palm Beach. You can often spot the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum from the water, pass the Port of Palm Beach, and cruise by Blue Heron Bridge’s clear-water area. Keep an eye out for wildlife like manatees (in cooler months), sea turtles, rays, and plentiful birds.

Florida doesn’t issue a traditional “boating license,” but anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 must have a Boating Safety Education ID Card or a 90‑day Florida temporary boater certificate to operate a motorboat of 10 hp or more. Captained charters don’t require you to hold these credentials because the captain operates the vessel; for self-operated rentals, bring your card or temporary certificate and a photo ID.

Yes—family outings are common here. Every vessel carries required life jackets for all guests, and most hosts can provide child sizes on request. Florida requires children under 6 to wear a life jacket while underway on boats under 26 feet; even on larger boats, many families choose to keep kids in properly fitted vests. Strollers and soft-sided diaper bags are typically fine; ask your captain about storage space.

Most charters allow you to bring snacks, picnic spreads, and beverages. Many boats include a cooler with ice; some offer catering or can recommend local pickup options. Cans are usually preferred over glass, and red wine is often discouraged to avoid stains. If alcohol is allowed, it’s BYO for guests 21+—your captain stays sober to operate the boat safely.

Pet policies vary by boat and captain, so ask before booking. Many hosts welcome well-behaved dogs on a case-by-case basis. If you plan a sandbar stop at Peanut Island, note that leashed pets are allowed in designated areas of the park; bring water, a bowl, and a towel for your pup, and be mindful of hot decks in summer.

South Florida’s dry season (roughly November through April) is sunny and breezy, while summer brings warm water and quick afternoon thunderstorms. Captains monitor radar closely; if conditions are unsafe, trips are typically rescheduled or refunded per the listing’s policy. Morning departures are best for avoiding pop-up storms and wind, and hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30, when flexible plans help.

Absolutely—boats are perfect for celebrate-and-cruise plans. Many listings welcome decorations, curated playlists, and custom routes to hit highlights like Peanut Island, skyline photo spots, and sunset anchorages. For larger groups, choose a yacht or catamaran with ample seating, shade, a Bluetooth sound system, and a head (restroom). Share your headcount, timing, and must‑see stops in your inquiry so your captain can tailor the day.

Peak boating weather is late fall through spring for drier days and crisp breezes; summer offers the warmest water, with the tradeoff of afternoon showers. Big boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4 (the city’s waterfront “4th on Flagler” fireworks), and Labor Day—book up fast. Notable events include the Palm Beach International Boat Show each March along Flagler Drive and SunFest on the downtown waterfront in late spring. December brings the Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade up the Intracoastal. For smoother cruising, book weekdays over weekends and choose mornings or sunset windows for lighter winds and easier dock space.

Peanut Island is the go‑to for a swim-and‑sandbar day, with clear lagoon water and protected anchorages near the inlet. Scenic cruises often include the Palm Beach shoreline, the Flagler Museum area, and calm stretches of Lake Worth Lagoon. Nature lovers favor passes near Manatee Lagoon in cooler months and the Blue Heron Bridge area for vibrant marine life viewed from the boat. Your captain will suggest the best route for the day’s wind, tides, and visibility.