Find the best Tampa boat rentals
Top Tampa Boat Rentals and Yacht Rentals
Apollo Beach, FL
23' Center Console - Perfect for Fishing or Cruising
$70+
/hour
Riverview, FL
2022 StarCraft Lx20 Tri-toon
$67+
/hour
Tampa, FL
2021 Bayliner Element E21
Tampa, FL
26' SUNCHASER pontoon for charter in Tampa!
St. Petersburg, FL
18' Carolina Cat Center Console Bay/Flats Boat - Lots of room!
Riverview, FL
22ft SeaHunt Center Console
$63+
/hour
Tampa, FL
20 Foot Fish and Cruise Pontoon. GAS INCLUDED!
Apollo Beach, FL
MARAMOR - Sail the waters of Tampa Bay
Tampa, FL
Perfect Party and Fishing Boat! Fuel Included
Saint Petersburg, FL
Glasstream 22 CC - Lets party or fish
Tampa, FL
Classy 24 ft. Avalon Tritoon Entertainer
How to rent a boat in Tampa?
Find the perfect boat
Enter your desired location and date to explore our fleet of boat, Tampa, FL, United Statess.
Select a captain
Choose to drive yourself or select a USCG licensed captain.
Book with ease
Connect with your boat owner and complete your booking online.
Set sail
Enjoy your day on the water with friends and family!
Rent a Boat in Tampa
With its close proximity and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no surprise that Tampa is a top boating hot spot along Florida's west coast. At 400-square miles in size, Tampa Bay is the state’s largest natural harbor and shallow estuary, making it an ideal home for marine life like bottlenose dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Events like the annual Tampa Boat Show and the legendary Gasparilla Festival draw millions of locals and tourists alike to the area’s waterways.
What To Know
When planning to hit the water in Tampa, consider these popular boat rental styles:
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Pontoon boats act as the ultimate party pad for both families, couples, and larger groups of friends, allowing for plenty of space to spread out onboard and easy anchoring at sand bars and islands, including Beer Can Island.
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Deck boats, jet boats, and bowriders will provide a sport-centric ride, perfect for wakeboarding, water skiing, tubing, and even wake surfing. These boats are great for navigating the inland bays and rivers.
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Center console fishing boats of all sizes will give boaters and anglers a smoother ride heading out into the Gulf of Mexico. Those interested in sport fishing for mahi-mahi or tarpon should plan for a longer cruise offshore into the open waters of the Gulf—where convertible boats will provide the best option.
Tampa is also a destination primed for exploration on personal watercrafts (PWCs). Island hop on your own, or opt for a guided tour around Tampa Bay.
Safety Requirements:
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Boating License/Education Rules: All Florida residents born after January 1, 1988 who operate vessels with 10-horsepower or more must carry a Florida Boating Safety Education identification card. You must be at least 14 years of age to operate a personal watercraft (PWC).
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Life Jacket Requirements: Children ages 6 and under must wear a PFD.
For more information, visit the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Where to dock your boat, or meet your rental:
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Lands End Marina
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Base Marina
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Safety Harbor City Marina
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Apollo Beach Marina
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Tampa Convention Center Marina
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Shell Point Marina
Learn more in this Tampa Bay Boating Guide.
Weather Conditions
Like most of Florida, Tampa offers an enjoyable climate that’s perfect for boating during all 12-months of the year. Tampa is known for its hot season, which lasts five months from May to early October, and its wet season, running almost in parallel with the region’s hurricane season—from June through the end of November.
Avg. Temperature High: Peaks around 94°F in July and August
Avg. Temperature Low: Around 53-58°F during winter months, from December through March
Avg. Water Temperatures in and around Tampa:
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73°F in the Spring (March, April, May)
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86°F in the Summer (June, July, August)
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77°F in Fall (September, October, November)
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65°F in Winter (December, January, February)
Things to Do in Tampa by Boat
Island-Hopping around Tampa Bay
Shell Key, Beer Can Island (Pine Key), Egmont Key, Three Rooker Island, Davis Island Dog Park… If you haven’t caught on just yet, there are plenty of unique small islands and keys to explore scattered throughout the Tampa-area waterways. Whether you’re planning a boat day with the kids or a big outing with the girls (or guys), inquire with your boat’s owner about the best activities to do at each of these locations. If you’re booking a captained rental, plan your itinerary so you get a taste of all these areas, and coordinate with friends on another boat rental to plan a meet up and raft-up.
Pro Tip: If you’re interested in nature and a secluded experience that will take you off the beaten path, plan to visit Shell Key Preserve, a 1,828-acre barrier island that lies in the mouth of Tampa Bay.
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Location: Google Maps Link
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Getting to Shell Key: Shell Key is only accessible by private boat, so it’s easy to coordinate with your boat’s owner if you would like to make a visit. The closest marina, located just north, is the Tierra Verde Marina. Without access to a boat, the general public relies on the Shell Key Ferry.
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Lat/Long: 27.6587° N, 82.7401° W
Explore Downtown Tampa Riverwalk
Tampa’s Riverwalk stretches over 2.5 miles through downtown along the Hillsborough River and is a bustling waterfront scene complete with cultural and historic attractions, nightlife, and enticing local restaurants. Tie up your boat rental at one of the two floating public floating docks on the Seddon Channel near the Tampa Convention Center, which will put you right in the center of the action. Stop for a bite at The Sail, a dog-friendly dockside restaurant along the riverwalk, or take the kiddos to the Florida Aquarium.
Pro Tip: Boaters won’t want to miss the annual Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, taking place in mid-December, which cruises from the southern tip of the Davis Islands, down the Hillsborough River along the riverwalk, and finishes at the Heights.
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Location: Google Maps Link
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Closest marinas to Downtown: Tampa Convention Center Marina, Marjorie Park Marina, and The Pointe Marina at Harbour Island
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Lat/Long: 27.9447° N, 82.4588° W
Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico is an angler's paradise, offering a slow drop-off to deeper water, which often requires a longer boat ride offshore if your ultimate goal is a reel in bigger game fish like grouper, snapper, tuna, mahi-mahi, or wahoo. Book your fishing charters or fishing boat rentals for June or July if you’re interested in fishing the Gulf during peak season. Planning a larger group outing with six or more friends or family will help to split up the costs of the trip, including fuel expenses which will add up as you travel further distances offshore.
Pro Tip: Keep in mind that different fishing tactics will attract different species (your charter captain can help with this). For example, you’ll want to try a mix of trolling, chumming, and bait fishing.
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Target species: Amberjack, bonito, cobia, grouper, king mackerel, mahi-mahi, sharks, snappers, spanish mackerel, tarpon
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Seasonality: The best time to catch fish in the Gulf depends on what you’re targeting. King mackerel are active in the spring and fall, while grouper and snapper are abundant regardless of the season.
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Boat selection: Center console boats, sportfishing/convertible boats, bay boats
Where to Go Boating in Tampa
Tampa Bay & Old Tampa Bay
If you want to be in the heart of the action, Tampa Bay and Old Tampa Bay is the place to be. Because of its sheer size, it’s impossible to take in all that the bay has to offer in just one day. Even local Tampa boaters are always discovering new sandbars, beaches and areas of the bay to explore; regardless of how long they’ve lived there or how familiar they are with the waterways. Old Tampa Bay is located in the northwest region of Tampa Bay, separated from Hillsborough Bay by the peninsula, and can be scene via the Howard Frankland Bridge or Gandy Bridge.
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Moorage: If boating in Old Tampa Bay, popular marinas include Tampa Bayside Marina, Cove Cay Marina, or Safety Harbor City Marina. Marinas in the southern part of Tampa Bay include St. Petersburg Municipal Marina, Shell Point Marina, and O’Neill’s Marina.
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Wake zone: Yes - also keep an eye out for navigational buoys directing marine traffic.
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Pro Tips: There are over 200 different species of fish found in Tampa Bay and Old Tampa Bay—pair this with a plethora of shipwrecks, artificial reefs, rock and ledge structures, and this body of water provides even brand new anglers with plenty of opportunities to reel in their first catch.
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Seasonality: Tampa’s rainy season runs from July through early September, while the driest month is November. Boaters can hit the water anytime throughout the year thanks to its subtropical climate.
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Lat/Long: 27.7634° N, 82.5437° W
Beer Can Island (Pine Key)
Beer Can Island—listed on the map as Pine Key— also goes by the fond local nickname of “Tiki Bay.” Without a doubt one of the best places to beach your boat, raft up, and have a boat party in Tampa Bay, Beer Can Island is only accessible by boat and located just north of Apollo Beach close to the Big Bend Channel. This island is now privately owned with various membership options, which are required in order to purchase food or drink while on the island; however, anyone is welcome to visit without a membership.
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Nearby Marinas & Launches: The island is 2-miles offshore and within a short cruising distance from Williams Park, Apollo Beach Marina, and Davis Island.
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Wake zone: Yes - also keep an eye out for navigational buoys and channel markers to the north of the island.
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Pro Tips: Camping is allowed on Beer Can Island with a reservation and only available to certain membership levels. This location is both family and dog-friendly (inquire with your boat’s owner to see if they allow dogs onboard), and is available for booking private events.
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Hours: Beer Can Island is open seven days a week between March and November, from 11am to sunset, and is only open on weekends between December through February, from 11am to sunset.
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Lat/Long: 27.8077° N, 82.4448° W
Egmont Key
Only accessible by boat, Egmont Key is best known to the general public as a state park and national wildlife refuge. For boaters, this location is cherished as an exclusive escape from the hustle and bustle of the downtown bay area, located less than an hour away by boat. Making up 250 acres, on-land adventures that will interest families include looking for seashells along the beach, hiking the nature trails, and visiting Fort Dade, the lighthouse and gun batteries. Back on the water, anglers should check out designated fishing areas where there’s any opportunity to hook seat trout, tarpon, snook, grouper, and flounder.
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Moorage: Boaters can beach their boat along the shore, or anchor just off the beach. Anna Maria is located just south of Egmont Key, while the Shell Key Preserve and Fort De Soto Park is just north.
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Wake zone: Yes - also be aware of the Egmont Key Ferry routes.
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Pro Tips: Families with children who decide to hike in and around the 6-mile paths surrounding Fort Dade should look for gopher tortoises and box turtles. Remember that pets are not permitted in the park.
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Hours: Egmont Key State Park is open 365 days a year from 8am to sunset while on land; but the surrounding waterways are open for boating 24/7.
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Lat/Long: 27.5920° N, 82.7626° W
Dock-and-Dine in Tampa
Tampa Bay, Old Tampa Bay, Hillsborough Bay, and the Hillsborough River are all lined with local favorites to satisfy any cravings after a fun day on the water. From tiki bars and beach bars, to upscale, fine-dining establishments with romantic sunset views, Tampa's dock-and-dine scene offers something for everyone.
Whiskey Joe's Bar & Grill
- Address: 7720 W Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa, FL 33607
- Hours: Open Sun-Thurs 11pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-12am
- Reservations: Yes - but not required
- Type of food: Tiki bar and beach; Seafood and fresh fish; Raw bar; Happy hour
- Dockage available: Yes - along the W Courtney Campbell Causeway
Rick's on the River
- Address: 2305 N Willow Ave, Tampa, FL 33607
- Hours: Open Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-12am
- Reservations: No - not required
- Type of food: Raw bar; Class bar-setting; Live music daily; Happy hour
- Dockage available: Yes, free for docking diners - along the Hillsborough River. Marina slips available for boats up to 50', with $1.00/foot/per night or $9.00/foot/per month.
Salt Shack on the Bay
- Address: 5415 W Tyson Ave, Tampa, FL 33611
- Hours: Open Tues-Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm; Closed on Mondays.
- Reservations: No - not required
- Type of food: Seafood; Plant & vegetable based options available; Burgers
- Dockage available: Yes - on Rattlesnake Point, just off Gandy Bridge
For additional options and information, read: 7 Best Tampa Restaurants on the Water to Get to By Boat.
Check Out Additional Tampa Boating Guides
Got questions?
Frequently asked questions
How much is it to rent a boat in Tampa?
The cost to rent a boat in Tampa ranges from $100 to $999 per hour depending on the amount of time that you would like to use the boat.
What makes Boatsetter different from other boat rental platforms?
What makes Boatsetter different is peace of mind. Boatsetter is the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer boat rental. We know choosing the right boat rental platform is essential to your experience while on the water. That's why we've gone the extra mile to focus on safety through our exclusive partnership with GEICO Marine and BoatUS. As the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer rental, you are protected during all rentals with insurance coverage and on-water assistance through TowBoatUS.
How to rent a boat on Boatsetter?
At Boatsetter, our mission is to make getting out on the water as easy as possible. With our intuitive booking system, you can rent a boat as soon as today. -First, you must determine your budget and the type of boat you want to rent. -Next, decide where you would like to boat and the kind of boat you would like to spend the day on. -Finally, determine if you will be needing a boat captain and reach out to the boat owner. That's it! You're officially on your way to a fantastic day out on the water.
How many people can fit on the boat rental?
The number of people who can fit on boat rental largely depends on the boat's size and how many life jackets are on board. Currently, the coast guard allows a maximum of 10-12 people on a Boatsetter boat rental.
How much does it cost to rent a yacht?
The cost of renting a yacht depends on the boat's size and the amount of time you'll use the yacht. The onboard amenities and luxurious accommodations also dictate the price. You can contact our yacht specialists for a custom quote by visiting: https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
How old do you have to be to rent a boat in Tampa?
You must be 18 years old to rent a captained boat and 25 years old if you would like to rent a bareboat charter.
Do I need a boating license to rent a boat?
Boating license requirements vary from state to state. As a renter, you are responsible for understanding local state requirements.
Can you rent a yacht in Tampa for the day?
Boatsetter allows you to rent a yacht for the day. Single-day yacht rentals are available for a select number of yachts. To chat with a yacht specialist please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
Can you rent a yacht for the week?
Boatsetter allows its customers to rent a yacht for the week. Renting a yacht for a week gives you more access to the wide range of yachts available on our platform. You can either book a rental directly through the site or connect with one of our charter specialists to plan your trip here: https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
Can you rent a yacht for the month?
Booking a month-long yacht rental is a detailed and hands-off process when working with our team of yacht charter specialists. We tailor each boat charter to our client's specific wants and needs. Our luxury yacht charter specialists can be reached at (954) 715-4114 or by visiting https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
How to rent a private yacht?
Renting a private yacht is a very detailed experience that caters to your exact needs while onboard one of our luxury yachts. To plan your private yacht rental experience please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters
How much does it cost to rent a pontoon boat ?
The cost of renting a pontoon boat rental depends on the size, location, and rental time of the pontoon boat. Prices can range anywhere from $200 to $1,000+ for longer rentals.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht in Tampa Florida?
The cost to charter a yacht varies depending on the boat size and the length of the charter. Prices typically range from less than $1,000 to $5,000 plus if you're wanting to charter the yacht overnight.
How much does it cost to rent a boat for the day?
The cost of renting a boat for the day on average ranges from $200 to $1200. The cost to rent a boat varies depending on the size of the boat and the length of time that you will be using the boat.
How does the boat insurance work?
Boat insurance typically covers loss caused by things such as fire, sinking, storms, and collisions. The extent of the coverage varies depending on the policy.
Do I need my own insurance to rent a boat?
You do not need boat insurance when renting with Boatsetter. Coverage is provided under the Peer-to-Peer Boat Rental Policy, which is underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. The policy was written from the ground up as a stand-alone recreational boat rental insurance policy covering the period of time that the boat is being rented and is available for all non-commercially insured boats.
Does Boatsetter screen renters?
Yes. We use a system called Cognito to ensure that payment information matches the renter's identity. We also require renters taking out a captained boat to be at least 18 years old and on a bareboat to be at least 25 years old.
Is listing my boat on Boatsetter free?
Yes! Listing a boat is completely free. We only take a commission when your boat is rented. We only make money when you do!
What if I'm not comfortable having a renter drive my boat?
If you are not comfortable having a renter drive your boat, we have an expansive network of licensed and experienced captains. Once your boat is listed, you can filter through our network of captains and favorite captains in your area that you would like to operate your boat.
How much does it cost to rent a boat?
The cost to rent a boat depends on whether you are renting for a half-day or a full day, the boat features and the boat size can impact your boat rental price. Rental prices can range from $200 to $1,000 plus depending on the boat rental itself and the length of time of the rental.
Top boat rental reviews in Tampa, FL
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5/5 stars
I will definitely book again with Bryce!
Dalia
Feb 2023 -
5/5 stars
Great guy very helpful and down to earth 🌎
DEXTER
Feb 2023 -
5/5 stars
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5/5 stars
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5/5 stars
Everything was setup as planned and would definitely use them again.
Russell
Jan 2023 -
5/5 stars
Was an awesome day out on the water.
Boat ran well.Ross
Jan 2023 -
5/5 stars
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5/5 stars
Tran Bao
Dec 2022 -
5/5 stars
Great pontoon boat.
Caralyn
Dec 2022 -
5/5 stars
Clean boat & great sunset ride out on the water, very helpful crew at the marina.
Catherine
Dec 2022 -
5/5 stars
Great boat and great people. They went above and beyond to ensure we had a great time.
Casey
Dec 2022 -
5/5 stars
The boat was sooo nice! Clean and comfortable. We happened to have great weather too.
Shannon
Nov 2022
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