Plan Your Florida Bareboat Charter Adventure Today

Florida's diverse coastline offers a wide range of sailing experiences, from the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean's more challenging conditions.

To plan your Florida bareboat charter, consider the time of year and the weather conditions. The best time to sail in Florida is from December to May when the winds are lighter and the seas are calmer.

Choose a destination that suits your skill level and preferences, such as the Keys, which offer a more relaxed sailing experience, or the Gulf Coast, which provides a more challenging route.

With over 1,300 miles of coastline, you can explore the state's many islands, bays, and inlets, and discover hidden coves and secluded beaches.

A bareboat charter is essentially a boat rental where you're in charge. You get to rent the vessel itself, giving you the freedom to explore the waters on your own terms.

You'll have the option to hire your own captain or operate the boat yourself if you meet the necessary qualifications.

The Florida Keys is considered an advanced sailing destination, requiring a certain level of sailing experience. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, bareboat charter applicants must meet specific qualifications and requirements.

The bareboat charter application will help evaluate your sailing experience to determine your skill level. You'll need to provide detailed information about your sailing history, including the size and type of yacht you've captained.

You'll need to have at least 30 days or 400 miles of sailing experience in the last three years as the named captain on an equivalent size and type of yacht. This experience is crucial in handling the vessel in various situations and conditions.

To meet the requirements, you can obtain certification from organizations like ASA, US Sail, RYA, or ICC to an equivalent bareboat charter level. This certification is essential for both monohull and multi-hull catamarans.

A qualified first mate is also required, who must complete a crew resume for approval. This ensures that your crew is capable of handling the vessel in all situations.

You'll also need to present a valid US driver's license or international passport to verify your identity and date of birth. This is a standard requirement for all bareboat charter applicants.

If you're under the age of 30 or over 74, additional crew requirements may apply. Don't worry if your experience isn't quite strong enough yet; there are ways to assist you in meeting the requirements.

Planning and Preparation is key to a successful Florida bareboat charter. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, including a valid passport, driver's license, and credit card, to secure your charter.

Research the best time to charter, considering factors like weather, sea conditions, and peak season prices. Florida's hurricane season typically runs from June to November.

Choose a reputable charter company with a good safety record and well-maintained boats. Some popular companies include Dream Yacht Charter and The Moorings.

Familiarize yourself with the boat's systems and equipment, including the navigation, engine, and communication tools. Take a safety briefing and learn about emergency procedures, such as fire extinguisher use and first aid.

Develop a budget and plan for expenses like fuel, provisioning, and any additional services you may need. Consider the cost of insurance, which can range from $200 to $500 per week.

Plan your itinerary, taking into account the weather and sea conditions. Consider visiting popular destinations like the Keys, the Gulf Coast, and the Bahamas.

All trips include a range of fun activities, such as floats, paddleboard, trampoline, slide, and cooler, which are complimentary.

These amenities are included in every trip, so you can enjoy them without any extra cost.

You can also bring your own cooler to store your food and drinks, which is a great way to keep your essentials fresh and within reach.

The pricing for an 8 hour charter is $1,695, with a $150 deposit required to secure your booking. This deposit goes toward the boat portion of the cost.

The total price of $1,695 doesn't include taxes, so be sure to factor those in as well. You'll pay a $150 deposit when you book, which will be applied to the boat portion of the cost.

To break it down further, the boat portion of the cost is $695, and the captain's fee is $400. You'll also need to pay the captain $200 on the day of the cruise.

You'll pay a total of $895 when you book, which includes the $150 deposit and the captain's fee of $200. The captain's fee for an 8 hour charter is $400.

One of the best parts of our trips is the variety of fun activities included. All trips include complimentary floats, paddleboard, trampoline, slide, and cooler.

You'll have access to a cooler to keep your drinks and snacks cold, which is a must-have for any outdoor adventure.

Safety and Emergency is a top priority when chartering a boat in Florida. Make sure to have a VHF radio on board to stay in touch with the US Coast Guard and other vessels.

The US Coast Guard recommends carrying a flare gun and flares in case of emergencies. Don't forget to check the expiration dates before departure.

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries. This should include supplies for cuts, burns, and seasickness.

In the event of a medical emergency, know the location of the nearest hospital or medical facility. The article mentions that the nearest hospital is the Lee Memorial Health System in Fort Myers.

A safety briefing is required before departure, so be sure to attend and take notes. This will cover essential safety procedures and emergency protocols.

It's also a good idea to have a plan in place for inclement weather, such as hurricanes or thunderstorms. The article mentions that hurricanes can be a significant threat in Florida, especially during the summer and fall months.

In the case of an emergency, it's crucial to stay calm and follow established protocols. This will help ensure a safe and successful outcome.