Fort Lauderdale is known as the "Venice of America" — and for good reason. With over 300 miles of navigable waterways, the Intracoastal Waterway, and direct Atlantic Ocean access, it's one of the best cities in the US to rent a boat. Whether you want a relaxed cruise through the canals, a day on the open ocean, or a sunset party boat, Fort Lauderdale delivers.
Top Boat Rentals in Fort Lauderdale
We compared boat rental operators across Broward County and picked the best for different budgets and group sizes:
Best Waterways to Explore in Fort Lauderdale
The Intracoastal Waterway
The ICW is the lifeblood of Fort Lauderdale's boating scene. Cruise past multi-million dollar mansions, iconic restaurants accessible only by water, and some of the largest private yachts in the country. The calm, protected waters make it ideal for beginners.
New River
The historic New River winds through downtown Fort Lauderdale, past the Riverwalk arts district, museums, and the famous Las Olas Boulevard. A day trip up the New River gives you a completely different perspective of the city.
Atlantic Ocean
For those who want open water, Fort Lauderdale's inlets provide easy access to the Atlantic. Offshore you'll find excellent snorkeling on the reef system and fishing for mahi-mahi, sailfish, and kingfish.
Boat Rental Prices in Fort Lauderdale
| Boat Type | Price Range | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Shared tour / cruise | $16–$50/person | Up to 40 people |
| Pontoon boat (self-drive) | $250–$450/half-day | Up to 12 people |
| Center console (self-drive) | $350–$600/half-day | Up to 8 people |
| Catamaran (crewed) | $600–$1,200/half-day | Up to 20 people |
| Luxury yacht (crewed) | $1,500–$5,000+/day | Up to 12 people |
Do You Need a License to Rent a Boat in Fort Lauderdale?
In Florida, anyone born after January 1, 1988 must complete a boating safety course to operate a vessel. However, most rental companies provide self-operated boats only to guests who can show a boating certification card or provide a captain with the rental. Alternatively, many operators offer bareboat charters with a brief orientation for vessels under 26 feet on flat, protected water like the Intracoastal.
Best Time to Visit
November through April is peak season — weather is mild (75–85°F), seas are calm, and visibility is excellent. Summer months (June–September) bring afternoon thunderstorms but also fewer crowds and lower prices. Most boat tours operate year-round.
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