What’s Trending in Miami? Boatsetter Reveals the Most Booked Boats This Season
Last Updated on September 8, 2025 by Boatsetter Team
Miami has always been the capital of stylish boating — where clear turquoise waters meet world-class nightlife and sandbars buzzing with energy. But this season, Boatsetter’s booking data reveals exactly which boats are making the biggest splash in Miami.
From sleek yachts to budget-friendly pontoons, here’s what Miami locals and travelers are booking right now.
1. Motor Yachts: Miami’s Signature Style
Motor yachts remain Miami’s #1 booked boat type — perfect for cruising Biscayne Bay, celebrating birthdays, or just living out that “Miami Vice” lifestyle.
Nationally, 21% of all Boatsetter bookings are motor yachts, but in Miami, they dominate even more, especially among Gen Z renters, who are booking larger and more luxurious vessels at $150+/hour on average.
2. Pontoons: Affordable Fun for Groups
While yachts make headlines, pontoons quietly continue to rise in popularity for budget-conscious groups.
28% of all Boatsetter bookings in 2024 were pontoons, thanks to their affordability. With an average of $87 per passenger nationwide, pontoons let Miami groups enjoy sandbars like Haulover without breaking the bank.
3. Cruisers: Perfect for Half-Day Adventures
Cruisers hit the sweet spot between comfort and cost, making them ideal for Miami’s half-day charters.
With 44% of all Boatsetter trips lasting 4 hours, cruisers are often booked for short but memorable jaunts to Nixon Sandbar or downtown Miami’s dock-and-dine scene.
4. Captained Experiences: Stress-Free & Popular
Even seasoned boaters are opting for captains in Miami.
Citywide, 50% of all Boatsetter bookings include a licensed USCG captain. In 2023 alone, Captains collectively earned over $1M across 600+ charters, reflecting travelers’ preference for guided, stress-free experiences.
5. Luxury Uptick with Celebrity Influence
When celebrities set sail in Miami, they set trends. Jessica Alba has posted about her Miami boat days, while DJ Khaled has shared his Boatsetter charter in Barbados. These moments inspire travelers to splurge on luxury yachts.
Boatsetter has seen a 53% surge in pre-bookings for peak summer holidays like the 4th of July and Labor Day — many tied to luxury yacht demand in Miami.
Why Miami Leads the Nation
Miami isn’t just a boating hub; it’s the heartbeat of Boatsetter’s marketplace. With Miami/Fort Lauderdale representing 46% of all nationwide bookings, it’s clear this city sets the tone for what’s trending in boating.
Want to see what’s hot right now?
Explore Miami boat rentals and join the trend.
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.
