BOAT.ME BLOG

Archive for August, 2017

5 Top Tips for Finding the Right Boat Rentals Near You

Posted by Mike Perez

Usually, if you are visiting and vacationing anywhere near the water, you’ll find that there are lots of boats around too. There are so many recreational opportunities you can enjoy with a boat at your disposal, that simply are not available on land, and so it’s not surprising that many people find themselves wondering “where can I find boat rentals near me?” as they plan their vacation activities.

If you are new to the idea of boat rentals though you should know that there is more to renting the right boat to suit your needs – and your budget – than simply opting for a boat that looks ‘cool’ or is available at the lowest rate. At BOAT.ME we make it easy to find a rental boat, but we’d also like to clue you in on five top tips and tricks for making sure it really is just what you need.

boat rentals near me: find a boat at www.boat.me

Getting the Fit Right

If you are not too familiar with boats in general, it can be hard to envision the size of the boat you’ll need you accommodate you and the rest of your vacation crew. Even if all the dimensions are clearly stated in a rental listing – which at BOAT.ME they always are – envisioning just what 16 feet looks like in real life isn’t always easy to do.

To help you out a little here, basically a boat of 16-19 feet is a perfect size for an intimate group of four to six, 21 to 27 feet is ideal for a larger party, say, seven or eight of you, and boats larger than that can often comfortably accommodate up to 12 people, so if you are up for a livelier time with lots of friends that’s probably the right choice for you.

Get the Boat That Suits Your Plans

As we mentioned, answering the question “where can I find boat rentals near me?” isn’t as straightforward as it sounds, especially when it comes to what you actually intend to do out there on the water. Some people like to take it easy, some people are looking for action and some are even hoping to make a fabulous – and memorable – impression on that special person by treating them to a real trip to remember. And to meet these different needs, there are different types of boat.

For those who want to go sandbar cruising and just basically hang out and cruise around a little – but not too far – a pontoon boat rental is an excellent choice. If you want to do some higher speed sightseeing, or just really enjoy the thrill of the surf and the wind in your hair, a speedboat rental is just the ticket. Larger yachts and catamarans are very well-suited to longer trips and for that special romantic time? It’s hard to go wrong with a beautiful sailboat. And when working with BOAT.ME don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help if you’re still having trouble making a decision.

Boat rentals near me: yacht charter in Miami

Get the Boat That Suits Your Budget

Many people are delighted to find that in many cases renting a boat for personal and exclusive use is far more affordable than they imagined, often comparable in cost to a standard tourist excursion. But that doesn’t mean that you want to blow your budget of course, so understanding upfront just how much a boat rental is going to cost you in total is another must.

Often there are a few more costs involved in a boat rental than simply just a standard hourly or daily rate. You may have to pay for fuel, or there may be a small fee for additional services like clean up. At BOAT.ME we help out here by ensuring that all of the fees and expenses are clearly defined upfront, meaning they’ll be no nasty surprises on the day when you may have chosen to leave your wallet back at the hotel!

Inquire about Optional Extras

Many people who rent out their boats have stocked them with all kinds of cool extras and fun toys, but often they won’t make them available unless you actually ask, as they sometimes call for a bit of advanced setup and planning. What kind of extras you may ask? Things like surf, paddle boards, slides and tubes, scuba gear and fishing rods are often available on an as needed basis as well as really neat extras like drone photography, catering and more. Make sure you inquire about these kinds of extras and book them in advance, so you don’t miss out on any of the fun!

Boat rentals near me: tubes and paddle boards included!

Check the Rules Before You Book

Most private charters are boats that belong to private owners and these are vessels that really are their pride and joy. Because this is the case, besides the general boating rules, some boat owners do set certain rules to help keep you, and their boat, safe and in the best possible shape.

Sometimes boat owners would prefer there to be no smoking, or that red wine isn’t one of the beverages you bring on board (red wine stains on gorgeous leather upholstery can be hell to get out.) On the other hand, some owners are more than happy for people to bring their dogs along for the ride, or have created a boat that’s particularly kid-friendly for those lovely family days out out on the water.

boat rentals near me: yacht charter with a crew at www.boat.me

Making sure you understand the rules of your chosen rental beforehand really is a must. At BOAT.ME we ensure that they are easy to find within the rental listings and again, if you have questions, we’re always happy to help. 

Many people find that once they have answered the question ‘”where can I find a boat rentals near me?” by actually doing so it becomes a little addictive and a vacation must in the future. At BOAT.ME we certainly understand that – we love boats and everything they offer – and are always available to help you plan the perfect boat charter, whether you are a first time customer or an ‘old hand.’

Islamorada boat rentals: your trip to Paradise

Posted by Mike Perez

According to many who have spent time there, paradise isn’t hard to find; it’s just off the coast of mainland Florida in the form of the Florida Keys. And Islamorada boat rentals is the best way to explore it!
Islamorada boat rentals
Though most people immediately think of Key West when you mention the Florida Keys, and it is an amazing town, there is a great deal more to this unique coral cay archipelago than that. In all, there are over 1,700 islands making up the archipelago, although most are very small and only a small percentage of them are populated.
So you see, fun in the Florida Keys is not limited to Key West and there really is something for everyone. A weekend – or a long weekend perhaps – can offer a great introduction to this tropical playground and, as shuttle service is available to The Keys from both Miami International and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, it’s pretty easy to get to from anywhere. But what can you do in a weekend? What should you do? Here are just a few suggestions and ideas.

Get Out onto the Water

If there is one thing there is an awful lot of in the Florida Keys it’s water. And while it’s beautiful to look at from the vantage of a sandy beach, or from the heights of the world famous Seven Mile Bridge, it can be even more rewarding to get out there and enjoy it in person, and as you might imagine, there are lots of ways to do that.

Islamorada boat rentals: catamaran for trips to Key West

Fish the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World”

As a first time visitor will quickly see boats are everywhere in the Florida Keys. And renting a boat on your trip here is essential! Whether you are into fishing and therefore Islamorada boat rentals would be of great interest to you (more about that in a moment) or your want to hit the water right where the action is and rent a boat in Key West you’ll find plenty to choose from at BOAT.ME. Just make sure you do it upfront to get the best rates!
Why would a fishing fanatic be interested in Islamorada boat rentals you might ask? Because the village – Islamorada is an incorporated village made up of six of the Keys; Tea Table Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Windley Key and Plantation Key – is considered by many to be “Sport Fishing Capital of the World”.
islamorada boat rentals: fishing charter
The waters around Islamorada have been immortalized in literature, and fished, by the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Zane Grey. And there are all kinds of fishing choices available, from back country fishing to offshore sportsfishing, shark fishing, patch reef fishing and even party boat fishing. And of course, even if your day with an Islamorada boat rentals and your favorite fishing rod ends up not being as productive as you’d like you’ll still have a marvelous day and back onshore there are a number of fabulous restaurants that serve, as you might have guessed, some truly delicious seafood and more.

Cruise the Keys

If you rent a boat in Key West doing so can be a great way to set off on a little cruise of The Keys of your own, taking in other great spots like Key Largo, Tavernier and much more. There are many kinds of boats available too and offerings to suit most budgets.
Islamorada boat rental and jet ski
The one thing first timers do need to realize is that navigating the waters of the Florida Keys is not always easy for those who are less experienced boaters, and they can even be bit challenging for those who are. Many boaters new to the often shallow waters have had the inconvenient and unpleasant experience of running aground. That’s why when choosing to rent a boat in Key West you may want to inquire about hiring its captain as well!

See the Sights with Islamorada boat rentals

Both on land and at sea there is a lot to see, and a great many amazing places to visit that will entertain, inform or just simply delight you. Some of our personal favorites include the following:

Islamorada’s Theater of the Sea

This is one of the oldest marine life centers in the world and it’s home to all kinds of animals, some rescued and some born there, all living in safety and surrounded by care. It’s both an educational and entertaining trip and kids love it.

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

The great novelist and the Florida Keys are inextricably linked. For ten years he occupied this grand home in Old Town Key West, writing, relaxing and reveling in all that the turquoise waters surrounding the island had to offer him.
The home remains pretty much as he left it, and a trip there is a must for any literature buff or fans of Americana and architecture. But there’s another little bonus too; spending time with “Hemingway’s Cats”. More than 40 cats live on the property, many of whom are descendants of a six toed cat named Snow White, a personal pet beloved by the man himself. All of the cats are polydactyl – meaning they have six toes – and they are cared for by a personal staff of veterinarians and volunteers. Many of them like the visitors a lot too and are not afraid to show it!

Dry Tortugas National Park

Despite its name this stunningly beautiful park is made up of 99% water and is a hot-spot for scuba divers. Its also a world renowned haven for birds of more than 300 different species and their are plenty of very knowledgeable guides to help you spot them as many as you can. And finally, no trip here would be complete without heading to Fort Jefferson, the largest masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere, located in the heart of the park.
Islamorada boat rentals: paddle boards and more!

Head to the Beach

Did we mention that there is also a great beach at the Dry Tortugas National Park? There is and it’s far from the only one. Some of our favorites include the very family friendly Sandspur Beach on Big Pine Key, the lively Zachary Taylor State Park Beach on Key West, the very relaxing Rest Beach which offers a quiet respite nearby and the dog friendly Higgs Beach is close too. To get the most out of your beach time do a little beach hopping, it’s fun and there’s lots to do, or not to do, depending on your preference.
Islamorada boat rentals

Eat!

Yes, if you don’t try at least one slice of Key Lime Pie while you are down in the Florida Keys we think you’ll really be missing out. But as the whole area is something of a foodie’s paradise as well there is lots more to try. Incredible locally caught seafood – conch fritters are a must and if you’re in Key West for Lobster Festival you’re in for a treat. Because there is such a Caribbean vibe to life in the Keys there are lots of other dishes to try too and you should, even if you’re not too familiar with them, it’s all part of the experience!
Islamorada boat rentals for lobster season

Planning a Family Reunion? Take it Out to Sea

Posted by Mike Perez

Family reunions. Special, sometimes just once in a lifetime occasions when brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, cousins and others all agree to meet up for a big celebration in Miami boat rent is not the first thing that comes to your mind, but this article might make you want to reconsider.

Because family reunions tend to be very special occasions, it’s only normal that whoever is tasked with organizing them wants to host an event that’s fun, suitable for all ages, within their budget and, above all, memorable. Wanting to stage such an event is one thing though, pulling it off is sometimes quite another.

The Nautical Alternative to ‘Dad’s Favorite Restaurant’

Figuring out just where a family reunion is going to be held is one of the very first challenges that any harried soul in charge of putting one together has to overcome. There is Dad’s (or Gran’s or Uncle Fred’s) favorite restaurant, they do catering and have a back room. But then again, it’s a steakhouse and at least two of the probable attendees are vegetarian, one is vegan and one only eats their food raw, so that may not be the best or most popular choice.

Catering halls and hotels are another option, but often a very expensive one, and that’s before the food and beverages, and you know you’ll need plenty of those. One good alternative to these traditional family reunion locations? Miami boat rent. Yes, renting a boat to throw a bash no one will forget, whether they are four, fourteen, forty or older.

The idea of looking for a company offering boat rental in Miami and actually hiring a ‘party’ boat might seem, at first, like a rather decadent one. However, as impressive as it might be to guests – and it almost certainly will be – it’s an easier and more affordable option than you might imagine, often costing only as much as that restaurant bash would have done. And the return on investment in terms of actually achieving all of those lofty aims for creating an unforgettable day? Priceless.

Miami boat rent 35' catamaran at www.boat.me

Planning Your Family Day on the Water

There are still choices to be made when you opt to take your family reunion offshore and rent a boat for your get-together. The first is what kind of boat? A classic pontoon boat best suited to an informal, relaxed soiree? A larger powerboat with a stateroom? An elegant yacht with several staterooms that can accommodate everyone? Or a thrilling catamaran? You’ll find, once you begin looking, that the choice is yours. Most Miami boat rent options are available by the day or by the hour, so you’ll be able to meet your particular needs there too.

Miami boat rent: 38' catamaran

Once the basic boat rental is arranged it’s time to figure out just what you – and your soon to be arriving to party family – are actually going to do with it. Although the options are almost endless, here are just a few ideas to get your imagination fired up:

Beach Hopping

The one thing that Miami has in abundance is a slew of beautiful beaches to enjoy. But why limit yourself to enjoying just one? Why not plan a beach hopping trip, making the most of your day with a boat at your disposal to explore several different cozy coves and sandy beaches. Kids will have tons of fun – is the a child that doesn’t like building sandcastles? – and grown ups can take the time to chat and catch a few rays, preferably with a few cooling beverages on hand.

Miami boat rent beach hopping tour

Get in Some Water Play

Some Miami boat rent available to opt for when planning a family get-together come along with all of their toys, with those toys including things like paddle boards, tubing and floating islands, snorkel gear and more. For the family who likes their free time a little more action packed and active, getting out onto to the water – or even under it – can be a fantastic way to spend the day and do a little family bonding at the same time.

Miami boat rent with tubes

Have a Cookout

Many of the rental boats available come along with their own cooking facilities, whether that means a great grill or a full galley, offering you the opportunity to let the culinarily inclined members of the family show off their skills in style. After all, what would you really rather serve to your guests, and eat yourself; a lukewarm generic restaurant ‘standard’ or lots of cooked to order fresh local produce – and seafood, don’t forget that, we have so much of it in Miami and it’s all so good – that’s tasty and homemade – well boat made at least? We know which one we’d pick!

Miami boat rent BBQ Miami boat rent: 38' catamaran with kitchenGet Ready for Your Closeup

Who doesn’t share all of their photographic memories almost instantly to social media these days? Even grandmas have Facebook pages these days and why not? It’s a great way to keep in touch and share memories. Therefore, it’s a given that everyone attending your family reunion will be snapping lots of pictures with their cellphones. But why not go a little further and arrange for a little professional photography to capture all of the best moments of the day, via drone.

Drone photography is a big ‘thing’ these days, and believe it or not some rental boats actually come equipped with their own. And even if they don’t, hiring one is pretty easy. And if those kind of photos don’t impress all of your Facebook friends and Snapchat buddies we don’t know what will. And they’ll make for some great lasting memories as well.
Miami boat rent with a drone photoshoot

A Final Word About Safety

Some people may balk a little about the idea of partying on a boat for safety reasons, especially if their are kids (or pets, as some boats do allow dogs) involved. The fact is though, as long as you exercise basic common sense boating is very safe.

Everyone should have a lifejacket, everyone should have lots of sunscreen and a change of clothes, children should have at least one adult watching over them at all times – and the same goes for Fido if he’s come aboard – and the designated captain of the boat should never drink. And while we’re on that subject, don’t let a lack of basic boating experience put you off Miami boat rent. Almost every owner renting out their vessel will also offer up the services of an experienced captain to take charge on the day so that everyone on board gets to truly enjoy every minute safely.

Miami boat rent pet friendly at www.boat.me