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We’ve designed coverage to handle damages, so you can focus on the adventure.With a St. Petersburg boat rental, top destinations offer a mix of island-hopping, calm bay cruising, and easy Gulf access. Shell Key Preserve is one of the most popular spots, known for its undeveloped beaches, clear shallow water, and excellent shelling—ideal for swimming and anchoring. Egmont Key sits at the mouth of Tampa Bay and is a favorite for boaters looking to combine snorkeling, history, and wide sandy beaches. Fort De Soto Park offers protected waters, quiet coves, and scenic shoreline views that are perfect for relaxing or picnic-style boating days. For calmer cruising closer to shore, Boca Ciega Bay is great for spotting dolphins, enjoying smooth water conditions, and taking in waterfront neighborhoods. Each destination highlights why St. Petersburg is one of Florida’s best boating cities, with options for laid-back cruising or full day coastal adventures.
St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show — This is the largest boat show on Florida’s Gulf Coast. It takes place annually downtown at the waterfront (Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin / Albert Whitted Park), with hundreds of powerboats, sailboats, and marine-gear vendors on display, both in-water and on-land.
Holiday & Lighted Boat Parades — December 12, 2025. During the winter holiday season, local marinas and communities around St. Petersburg host lighted-boat parades.
Harborage Marina - The only full-service mega-yacht port on Florida’s west coast, with slips large enough for boats over 200′. It offers deep-draft access, protected docks with fixed breakwater, and resort-style amenities (floating docks, fuel, etc.) — great for larger boats, cruisers, or anyone wanting easy Gulf access.
St. Petersburg Municipal Marina - Centrally located on the downtown waterfront, with hundreds of wet slips and convenient access to local restaurants, shops and the bay. It offers 24/7 security, on-site facilities (ship store, laundry, pump-outs), and easy access to both Tampa Bay and Gulf waters — a good all-around choice for renters or boaters wanting to be near downtown.
St. Petersburg Yacht Club - Great option for sailors and those interested in sailing culture. It offers multiple marina properties (Downtown Marina, Snell Isle Marina, others) and over 120 wet slips total across them.
The typical cost for boat rentals in St Pete's is about $60–$120 per hour.
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Boating in St. Petersburg is all about easy access to the Gulf and a steady mix of sandbars, islands, and open water. Cruise through Tampa Bay or head out toward Egmont Key for a more remote feel, where you can anchor, explore, and enjoy the beaches. Closer in, locals gather at sandbars and along the shoreline for a relaxed, social boating scene. Dolphin sightings are common, and anglers can take advantage of both inshore fishing and quick access to deeper Gulf waters. Whether you’re planning a full day of island hopping or a simple sunset cruise, Boatsetter makes it easy to find the right boat or captain and enjoy St. Pete on your terms.
Spend the day anchored at local sandbars or exploring nearby islands like Egmont Key.
Cruise along the gulf and bay waters with frequent dolphin sightings and scenic views.
Access productive fishing spots both inshore and just offshore in the Gulf.
