Renting a Boat: What to Look For

Interested in knowing what to look for when renting a boat? There are many boat renting agencies and just as many rules about who may and may not rent a boat. Being aware of the rules is key to your success in renting a boat.

1. Decide if you want to go bareboating (piloting the boat yourself) or if you need to rent a captain. Not everyone will be qualified to pilot their own boat. Check if someone in your group has seamanship skills, or you may have to rent a captain when renting a boat, a more expensive proposition. Ask the boat renting agency what the qualifications are if you want to captain the boat yourself and make sure that you are able to provide a safe experience for yourself and others while on the water.
2. Decide on the type of boat you want to rent. If you're going fishing for the day with four friends, a twenty-five foot open fisherman will fit the bill. But if you want to buzz around a Caribbean island and snorkel at your own whim, a speed boat with a swim platform will be more in line with your wants and needs.
3. Decide on the price you want to pay. Most boat rental companies stand pretty firm to their pricing, as there might not be a lot of competition. Bargaining down in price might not be an option. Depending on the area, boats may go for as little as $300 for a day or up to thousands of dollars. Make sure to factor in the cost of fuel also, since boats can really eat gas up.
4. Decide on how long you want the boat for. Renting a boat for four hours or so is one thing, but considering a boat to live aboard for a week vacation and you're in another ballpark. Also, if you're planning on a weekly boat rental, a houseboat may be more in line monetarily and functionally with your needs.