Florida has over 1 million registered recreational vessels in the water, the most in the country.
If you're planning a vacation to Destin, you'll probably want to take a pontoon boat on the water. After all, what's a tropical vacation without a bit of fishing, lounging, and sightseeing on a boat?
Today, we're going to answer that question and give you a few tips for renting a boat in Florida.
Do You Need a Boating License in Florida?
In short, you do not need a boating license to rent a boat in Florida, as long as you were born before January 1, 1988. If you were born after January 1, 1988, you will need a boating license or certificate.
What you do need to have in lieu of a license, is proof of a completed boating safety course. This will give you a boating safety identification card, which you'll then have to display to the boat rental service. Those coming from out of state can get a temporary boating certificate.
How to Get a Temporary Boating Certificate in Florida
There are a variety of vendors around the state and online that offer these courses. If you're coming from out of state, you can also provide proof of completion of a similar course.
Once the course is completed, the vendor may automatically send a request for a boating safety ID card. These take a few weeks to come in the mail, so if you're coming for a temporary visit, it's better to obtain a temporary certificate directly from a vendor.
What You Need to Know When Renting a Boat in Florida
Once you've finished your boating safety course and have your ID ready, renting a boat couldn't be easier. Whether you're coming with your family or a group of friends, renting a luxurious pontoon boat is the way to go.
At 30A Pontoon Rental, our boats can handle 8-12 people. They're a bit bigger and faster than your average pontoon and we let you take them out for up to 6 hours. All of this is what makes us among the best boat rental services in Destin.
It's Time to Spice Up Your Destin Vacation
Do you need a boating license in Florida? It depends on your age. But you need to have an understanding of how to safely operate a boat. When you're renting from us, you'll always have the option of getting captained charters if you aren't comfortable or don't have the proper certificate.
Regardless of what you choose, taking a pontoon out for a nice day on the water is the best way to spend your time in Destin. Learn more about our boat rentals and how to book yours today.