Undoubtedly one of the best destinations in the Sunshine State is Florida Keys, an archipelago made up of coral cays in the southern tip of Florida, close to Cuba. The largest and most inhabited of the islands is Key West, but there are many other isles to see, both inhabited and uninhabited. Renting a boat is one of the best ways to explore and experience everything about the Florida Keys, from the small towns to the amazing snorkeling and fishing these turquoise waters have to offer. Being on a boat isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but if you’re eager to outgrow your sea legs, there are several accommodations that might convince you to hop onboard the vessel. To rent a boat in the Florida Keys, USA, here are the top boat rentals that you should consider.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on August 16, 2024.
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1. Upscale yacht in Key West with panoramic views
If your ideal cruise from Key West involves a lot of sightseeing, this boat charter is something you should try. Expect panoramic sights of the Keys and beyond from the yacht’s wide, sweeping windows. Whether you’re lounging on the couch or manning the ship over at the control board, you’ll never be disappointed by the views it offers.
At the back of the yacht, you’ll find an aft deck, equipped with a barbecue grill for onboard cookouts and a board to hop off for a freestyle swim. Whenever the sun calls, you can step up the ladder to the fly bridge, where you can appreciate the sea life even more.
Key West, Florida, United States
53.97 km (33.6 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we made breakfast almost every morning and loved coffee out on the bowit was peaceful had unbelievably stunning beauty and was very comfortableRead more reviewsHost:
the hosts went out if our way to make our stay comfortableeverything went smoothly and ali was incredibly kind and easy to work withali and larry were great hosts offering help when we neededamazing sunrises and sunsets ali and her husband were extremely helpful and were outstanding hoststhese are the best hosts
2. Cozy couples' houseboat in Marathon (from USD 170)
This cozy boat rental in Marathon can ideally fit couples who are seeking to spice up their vacation. Docked away from the land, the Airbnb houseboat offers, as the host Danet puts it, a unique camping experience at sea. An array of amenities is available for guests to make great use of while on board.
There is a brand-new king bed for you and your partner to rest comfortably in. Pre-installed solar panels help power up much of the houseboat’s electricity supply, but the host advises to use it only as the sun goes down. Board games are available for entertainment and you can also enjoy kayaking nearby.
Marathon, Florida, United States
15.96 km (10.0 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
bed was super comfy and cleaneverything inside was very cleanalso the room is spotless and new and the bed is comfortable toothe boathouse was cleaned and stocked with everything we needed- highly recommendedbeautiful location and very clean environmentHost:
the host was always responsive and willing to helpthe restaurant is good and service friendlywonderful host with responsive messages and clear directions for all needsshe is extremely responsive and is great at answering any questions you may havethank you danet for being a great hostRead more reviewsLocation:
close to great restaurantsit's such a cute placetight quarters but perfect for lovers or very close friendsthe location is great after getting to land lots of restaurants within walking or biking distancethe houseboat was in a nice location
3. The Salty Conch in Key Largo (from USD 225)
Travelers with a quench for nature should strongly consider renting this boat in Key Largo. It’s docked right in the ocean, allowing thrill-seeking guests to explore many water-based activities carefree. Take a plunge into the deep waters from the vessel, or sail away into the open, where you can find wild dolphins and manatees swimming with you.
To access The Salty Conch, you’ll need to hop on the motorized rubber boat from the nearest marina. A kitchenette and dining area are available inside the sailboat, but if you’re not confident enough with your cooking skills, you can ride the dinghy back to the marina, where several restaurants and bars abound.
Key Largo, Florida, United States
91.99 km (57.2 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
kitchen area was nicely set up alsoCleanliness:
everything was nice and cleani was dinghy impaired -was not the boats fault everything was clean and perfectthe stay was unique and the experience was just awesome the sailboat was clean and quaintHost:
issy was so helpful and was there to answer any questionsawesome host thanks for a great stayi couldn’t of asked for a better experience and hostisidora was kind and easy to talk towe had so much fun such a cute little boat and the host was very helpful and responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
i felt i was in a dream/movie like location
4. Green-powered sailboat in Islamorada (from USD 160)
For the environmentally-conscious who wants to explore the Keys without the carbon emissions, this is the perfect sailboat for you. This private retreat on the water runs on wind and solar energy, enough to power the boat’s refrigerator, TV, and freezer. Other essentials you’ll find onboard include a full kitchen, a compost toilet and shower, and a queen bed. Outside, there’s a roof deck with a grill and space enough to get a suntan. This houseboat is best if you want to make the most out of your stay in Islamorada, as there are a couple of restaurants and other island treats located near the dock.
Islamorada, Florida, United States
69.09 km (43.0 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wifi single is goodgreat views and comfortable amenities" the boat has a stove fridge bathroom shower and even a/c everything you need for a perfect weekendthe cool shower felt perfect after a hot dayHost:
linda was a great hostlinda is an excellent hostlinda was an awesome host very quick responses to all of our questionslinda is a gracious informative hostlinda is a great host and very accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
several good restaurants close to this locationgreat location just a few minutes off shoreit's a gorgeous location and very privateamazing houseboat in great locationbeautiful location so relaxing and wonderful in every way
5. Romantic sailboat with cozy salon
This 38-foot (11.6 m) sailboat is a great option if you want to make some memories sailing around the Keys. You’ll be taken to and from the dock on a smaller boat to board this beauty, where you’ll be greeted by the host. This boat is best for those over the age of 18, perfect for you and two other friends. There’s a nice and comfortable salon inside, two cozy beds good for three, a coffee maker, an electric toilet and a sink. If you want to explore any of the islands on land, there are two bikes free for the guests to use.
Key West, Florida, United States
57.17 km (35.6 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it is like camping so don’t expect any air conditioning/electricity/running waterit was extremely comfortable and the rocking of the waves made sleeping amazingyou cannot take shower but the boat is equipped with everything you need (electricity fresh water blankets etc)Cleanliness:
i think the boat is pretty clean and doesn’t have smell as in another reviewthe boat was clean had plenty of space coffee tea clean blankets and sheetsthe boat is clean and comfortablethe interior was cozy and clean with fresh sheets and pillow cases for usmike does a great job of cleaning it provides fresh sheets water & coffeeHost:
mike was an outstanding hostmike is a great host and captainthank you for the experience mike you were a great hosthe’s knowledgeable and friendly and we can’t thank him enoughmike is a fantastic host who’s friendly and knowledgeable about things to do in the areaRead more reviewsLocation:
it's a very nice location ideal to spend a day on the oceani would definitely recommend this location for anyone that wants to experience key west in a different waymike's boat is in a wonderful location out in the watermike's boat is at a great location remote from the noises and it is so peacefuli love camping and this was as close as you could get while being on the ocean
6. Spacious cabin cruiser with hot water
Speed off to the Key Largo sunset in this snazzy Sundancer cabin cruiser named Serenity. It has hot running water in the bathroom so you can start the day feeling fresh and rejuvenated. Serenity is docked in a private area, with access to a charcoal grill and a patio table with chairs. This is the perfect boat for fishing trips as the hosts will also provide you with rods and an array of tackle. On land, you can walk just a little further to find a tiki bar and enjoy some drinks at sundown.
Key Largo, Florida, United States
104.85 km (65.2 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
ice cold ac and nice not water for showerthe bed was very comfortable and the ac worked greatthe inner cabin was flawless and beds were very comfynice having breakfast on the “porch” back end of the boat with the water viewsthe bed super comfyCleanliness:
very clean and stocked with everything you needwe found it to be clean and preparednice and clean accommodation special place to spend the nightthe cleanliness of the main outside cabin is an issue with the inside being generally cleanthe place was clean quiet and just a fantastic place to relaxHost:
david was a great hostthe hosts were awesomeolivia and will were great hostsour host was so kind and attentive to our every needthe owner very responsive and helpful check in and out went smoothlyRead more reviewsLocation:
great location off the beaten pathgreat location with everything you need right thereamazing time the location was perfectgreat location on a quiet shorelinegreat location-excellent food and drinks at the blackwater siren
7. Pet-friendly houseboat for four
This boat is suitable for a larger group and perhaps a furry friend! It has everything a party of four needs: a walk-around bed, a deluxe twin mattress, and a daybed so everyone can sleep comfortably. There’s also an upper deck where you and your loved ones can enjoy cocktails at sunset. The host has also provided a kayak and a paddleboard, both of which you’re free to use. Your spot on the dock is close to a bathhouse, several tiki huts and, of course, the beach. Pets are welcome to stay aboard for an additional fee, so you can bring your furry companion along on the trip.
Key Largo, Florida, United States
94.65 km (58.9 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable couch and bed and cool sleeping space for kids under the helmhe loved it and there was a fan to help with air circulationyet has excellent wifi/cell service for work/communicationbed was comfy and the big couch is awesomethe houseboat was very comfortable for usCleanliness:
the boat was very clean the towels smelled fresh and clean as did the sheetseverything was clean and in good working orderthey kept it very cleanthe shower house/bathrooms are kept extremely clean as wellwe absolutely had everything we needed and the bathhouse was very clean and convenientHost:
abigail is a great hostabigail was an awesome hostabigail was the best host we have ever hadthe owners of the surrounding boats are so friendlyvisitors can expect a friendly host who responds in a timely manner and provides useful advice to her clientsRead more reviewsLocation:
amazing location and wonderful placethe location is wonderful secluded yet everything you need is close bylocation was great - near many bars and restaurants which were walkablethe location is amazing 100% worth itthanks great experience and location
8. No-frills sailboat with free kayak
Sailing can either be a luxurious or an adventurous experience, and sometimes it can be both. But if you’re more of a backpacker with simple needs and a desire to experience sailing around the Keys, this boat is perfect and budget-friendly. Since it’s moored on a shallow channel, you’ll need to kayak to the sailboat, so best pack light! Aboard the Mangrove Ninja, there’s a comfortable mattress, a solar-bag shower, a porta-potty with curtains for privacy, and a cooler for your snacks and drinks. Don’t worry, you won’t be completely roughing it - you’ll be treated to a million-dollar view in every direction.
Key West, Florida, United States
50.71 km (31.6 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkTop guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the boat was clean and the towels and linens smelled snuggly freshHost:
great host and stayzappa was an awesome hosthosts are the best as wellgreat spot and very kind hostsbeautiful spot and the hosts were very nice peopleRead more reviewsLocation:
the boat location is amazing close to everything you neednice people and locationsweet little place floating in the middle of paradisewe were able to park right by our launch site and drive around town with easevery relaxing environment and only a paddle away to the closest bar
9. Cute sailboat for the solo traveler
It’s nice to get away every once in a while, so if you want some guaranteed time alone, this sailboat is perfect for you. It’s budget-friendly and equipped with all the essentials: safety gear including life jackets, small battery-powered fans, a cooler for snacks and refreshments, fresh bed linens and towels, a porta-potty, solar shower, and toiletries. This cute sailboat also comes with a kayak, which you’ll use to board and disembark. You can explore the nearby mangroves, or stay moored and stargaze. It’s up to you!
Key West, Florida, United States
50.87 km (31.7 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkTop guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the bed was comfy and the cabin was clean and stocked with anything you might needzappa and amber are very friendly and hospitable the boat was clean and had everything you might needthe sailboat was very clean and everything on it functioned as it shouldyour clean clothes will feel salt-chapped and perpetually dampHost:
really nice boat and zappa is a great hostthe hosts were very friendly and accommodatingzappa is a great hoston the boat zappa informed us friendly about how everything worksthey were very thoughtful helpful and down to earthRead more reviewsLocation:
beautiful location w many prime kayaking spotsthe location was perfect to get around as wellour staying at zappa's place was great wish we could have stayed morefantastic place to stay very quiet and close to restaurant and kayak adventuresgreat place and awesome experience would definitely come back
10. Eco-friendly sailboat for adventurers
All aboard Mangrove Mango! This is an eco-friendly sailboat that’s ideal for the budget-conscious travelers. Mangrove Mango offers a “primitive camping” experience in Florida Keys. The sailboat is moored in shallow waters so you’ll need to take a kayak to reach this humble yet cozy camp in the waters. There are battery-powered fans to keep you cool on sweltering days, a small cooler, toiletries including organic shampoos and conditioners, bug spray, a solar shower, and life jackets. The kayak is also there for you and a friend to explore the beautiful network of passageways that meander through Key West’s mangrove forests.
Key West, Florida, United States
50.75 km (31.6 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bed is small but sufficient with the solar panel you can load your phones easilythe double bed was cozy but very comfortablewell thought out boat with all we needed for comfortable tripeverything was as expected - clean sheets plenty of batteries to operate fans and lanterns kayaks etcCleanliness:
we had an amazing time on zappa and amber's boat it was all very well organized and cleanHost:
zappa was a great hostthe host is very warm and helpfulzappa is a fantastic host: friendly helpful caring kind and professionalgreat host who is very nice and easy to reachhosts were very responsive and had great local tipsRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is beautiful and close to everything in key westgreat location and easy commute to and from shoregreat location super friendly hostswe loved our stay there and their description of location and what to expect is spot ongreat place to go for brocation* (brothers vacation trademark*)
11. Homey sailboat with plenty of charm
Staying on a boat is a lot like camping, which is what most people who spend a lot of their time on boats will tell you. While sailing doesn’t always offer the most luxurious experience, you’ll enjoy it nonetheless, especially if you’re doing it while on vacation in Florida Keys! This homey sailboat isn’t the fanciest, but it can promise you a great night’s sleep with two cozy beds. Out in the marina, you can enjoy many activities and amenities the location has to offer: a pool, a restaurant and bar, and a laundry room and bathroom facilities. Don’t forget to come out at night while on the boat to soak in the nighttime view of the harbor. It’s definitely something to behold.
Key West, Florida, United States
49.85 km (31.0 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bath/shower house was nice and having the hotel amenities was perfectit was lovely to sit on the deck and watch the stars and was cozy and privateamazing to look up at night to see the stars from bedthe cabins tight but comfortable and serviceablegreat place to stay with use of a lovely poolCleanliness:
bathhouse is clean and securethe sail boat is clean and in a nice locationvery clean and comfortable plus pj and stephanie are awesomethe space was clean and as well as the amenitiesthis boat was everything you could want in kw - clean convenient nice amenitiesHost:
the hosts are very kindpj is a great hostpj and stephanie were great hosts very friendly and helpfulthe host was very responsive and the check-in was greatgreat place pj and stephanie were extremely responsive and flexibleRead more reviewsLocation:
excellent location with access to downtowngreat location in a quiet marinalocation for what we needed was perfectvery nice ship on nice locationbest check-in ever beautiful boat amazing location
12. Vintage 1964 Columbia sailboat for two
Sail around Florida Keys in this cozy, vintage 1964 Columbia sailboat. It’s the perfect crash pad on the high seas, with a sitting area, a bedroom for two, a separate living area, and ample counter space to prepare food. Not far from where you’ll dock are a grilling area and a freshwater station where you can stock up on all the essentials. Aboard, you’re free to use the towels and brew some coffee, or take out the complimentary kayak, snorkeling gear, or bicycle when you’re feeling adventurous.
Islamorada, Florida, United States
59.39 km (37.0 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
air conditioning kept the boat cool enough at nightthe a/c kept us cool at nightthe property was a perfect keys location with lounge chairs hammocks and picnic tableCleanliness:
the bedding was clean and we woke up refreshedthe water right outside the door was so very warm clean and full of lifeHost:
kevin is a very friendly hostfriendly host well recommendedgreat area kevin was a wonderful hostkevin is very friendly and quick to answer questionsour hosts made our stay in the keys extra specialRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is amazingbeautiful location and pleasant staythe location is beautiful and peacefulexcellent location with bikes to borrow for a ride down the bike paththis location is so beautiful you can't believe your eyes
13. Sparkling 1977 sailboat with air-conditioning
Air-conditioning in sailboats is a luxury, so consider this Airbnb rental a treat! Docked in a marina village at downtown Key West, this 1977 Hunter sailboat has many things in store for you. There’s hot water to enjoy, a kitchen area where you can prepare and cook your fresh catch, and of course, a bathroom. This sailboat sleeps three, with one king bed and a single bed available. Out in the marina village, you’ll have access to a plethora of amenities, such as laundry, gym, and a swimming pool. You can also book private fishing and sailing charters here if you’re done being your own captain.
Key West, Florida, United States
49.97 km (31.1 mi) from Bahia Honda State ParkAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
air conditioning worked great and tv was a bonusthe beds were super comfy and air conditioning kept us cool in the hot summer daythe sleeping quarters were comfortablewe truly enjoyed the cabin as it was very spacious and comfortable to sit read and simply relaxit was roomy and comfortable and is located in a great slip in the marina with awesome amenitiesCleanliness:
nice clean boat and nice marina with a pooljames’ boat was clean comfortable and cozya well kept vintage sailboat with clean decks easy access in a lovely location near key westthe place was nice and clean and had some cute amenitiesjameson's boat is sparkling clean and gives an unforgettable experience of staying on the waterHost:
james was very responsive to our questionshe was very responsive to our questionsjames is a great host very helpful and responsiblejames was very responsive to our questions and helpful with suggestionsjames is a wonderful host and very helpful when you have any questions or need helpRead more reviewsLocation:
location was good and the shuttle was an easy way to get to key westbeautiful place and great location very convenient to park the car and unpack our stuffyou will love this boat and location we diddefinitely a great place to stay quite & fun locationthere are places to eat within walking distance we had a great meal at the hogfish
Bring out the inner sailor in you
Go kayaking, paddle-boarding, or snorkeling. Read your favorite book as you feel the wind in your hair. You can do all these and more when you explore the Florida Keys on your rented houseboat or a small sailboat. Don’t forget to pack some coral-friendly SPF before you go!
If you’re looking for other ways to enjoy the Florida Keys, consider booking yourself an RV rental. Most of its islands are connected by roads, making the way for incredibly scenic road trips.
Frequently asked questions about the top boat rentals in the Florida Keys
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