Boating Is the Ultimate Staycation Hack. Here’s Why
Last Updated on June 16, 2025 by Boatsetter Team
You don’t need a passport stamp or a packed suitcase to feel like you’ve escaped. Sometimes, the best adventure is waiting right outside your front door and there’s no better way to unlock a new view of your hometown than adding a private boat rental to your staycation plans. The latest summer travel trends report tells us that people are planning stateside or local trips this year. With budget-conscious choices fueling this shift, exploring your city by boat is a way to discover hidden gems nearby, re-experience popular attractions and play tourist for a day, and get a helpful change of scenery.
A huge part of that magic? Local Captains. They’re like group guides with the on the water scope. Whether you’re gathering the girls, your family, or your brunch squad, a Captain can tailor the day to fit the vibe. Explore tucked-away beaches, master a new water sport together, or just kick back while they narrate the best sights and local legends. From sailing lessons to private boat tours, the right Captain turns your boat day into the event of the season.
5 group boat trips to fall back in love with your city
On a boat, a familiar skyline turns into a jaw-dropping postcard, a typical Saturday into a spontaneous group trip. Whether you’re hosting friends for the weekend or you’re looking for a local trip this summer, explore boat rentals and on-the-water experiences that will give you a new perspective of your home.
1. Miami: Millionaire’s Row + Bayside cruise
Cruising through Biscayne Bay with your favorite people, a playlist, and snacks on board? Peak summer energy. A local Captain will not only guide your crew past the glittering skyline but also point out celebrity mansions and mega yachts that line the shore. Expect oohs, aahs, and plenty of “wait, who owns that one?” moments. Cap it off with a pit stop at Bayside Marketplace for a group stroll, shopping, and dockside eats.
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2. New York City: Private boat tour + views of Lady Liberty
Seeing the Statue of Liberty by boat just hits different especially when it’s just your group onboard. No crowds. No lines. Just unobstructed views, wind in your hair, and a Captain who can share local stories as you cruise the Hudson. Add in skyline selfies, under-the-bridge moments, and maybe even a sunset sail, and you’ve got an NYC memory even locals brag about.
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3. Chicago: Private architecture boat tour + dock ’n’ dine
Elevate your next friend hang with a private architecture cruise down the Chicago River. Admire the skyline’s greatest hits, learn cool backstories from your Captain, and bring a charcuterie spread on board for max luxury. For the finale? Dock at a riverside spot for dinner and drinks because group boat days deserve a solid après.
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4. Los Angeles: Guided fishing trip + Catalina Island escape
Swap out beach crowds for something way cooler: a guided fishing trip at LA’s artificial reefs, where your group can learn, lounge, and reel in something epic. Want to take it further? Catalina Island is just a boat hop away and it’s quickly becoming the SoCal version of a Euro summer escape. Think turquoise water, cliffside views, and the best group day trip you didn’t know you needed.
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5. Seattle: Nature cruise + sightseeing with Space Needle stop
Seattle’s got big nature energy, and by boat, it’s all front and center. Start with a scenic cruise that hits the Space Needle and floating houseboats, then let your Captain lead you toward nearby natural escapes like Discovery Park’s hidden coves or the lush, pine-lined waters of Lake Union. It’s like a city tour and a nature retreat all in one. Bring friends, bring snacks, and definitely bring a camera.
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Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent a boat, list your boat, or become a Boatsetter captain today.
