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3 Things To Consider Before Renting a Boat
1. Legal Requirements
Legal restrictions are one of the first things to look out for when renting a boat, including the necessity of a boat license.
You might be wondering, “Do you need a boating license to rent a boat?” While boat rentals may not always require a permit, make sure to have a driving license when planning to operate a boat with a group of people.
It’s important to know that different states have different age and license requirements for every boater. For one, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) requires all charter captains and boat rental operators to have a valid boater’s license before operating a boat with over four passengers on board.
Furthermore, the requirements depend on the charter boat license they carry.
2. Age Restrictions
Another factor to consider, along with legal requirements, is age requirements. In general, individuals below 18 are not allowed to operate a powerboat. For some states, you have to be 21 or 25 to rent a boat.
The good news is that age restrictions are more flexible for a boat rental as they usually come with a captain or crew to operate the vessel. This is especially true if you have kids on board.
If you’re planning to rent a boat in Florida, the state law requires anyone born before 1988 to obtain an FWC Identification Card for Boating Safety Education and successfully go through an approved boating safety course. If you are visiting from another state, it’s best to ask boat rental operators about their requirements.
3. Safety Equipment
When renting a boat, safety should always be a priority. Keep in mind that your boat should be equipped with safety gear like life jackets. If you have kids on board, make sure boat rental operators provide them with life jackets that fit their size.
Before leaving the dock, know where safety equipment is placed and how to use them.
It’s also important to double-check the boat and sign a boat rental agreement to ensure you return it in the same condition as when you left the dock.
Before sailing, see that the boat rental operator also gives you a tour of the boat.
