FAQ

Common Questions we get

What is the minimum age to rent a boat?

Per our commercial insurance policy, 21 years of age.

Do I have to pay for gas or is it included?

You can prepay for gas for the day or you can fill up at one of the local marinas before returning the boat. Either way, gas is the renters responsibility .

What happens if I have trouble on the water?

Our insurance covers towing due to failure that is within our control. However accidents and other problems do occur on the water that would be the renter's responsibility. For this reason we strongly recommend renters obtain a BoatUS membership that includes Tow Service. Follow the link on our booking page for more information.

What is your cancelation policy?

48hrs notice on the renters end you will receive credit towards a future rental. If we have to cancel due to weather or emergency you will get full deposit and charges back.

Do I need to have a "Boater's License"?

While not "technically" a license Florida requires a safety certificate if you were born after January 1st 1988. There are some exceptions.

What are the exceptions?

A person licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard to serve as master of a vessel.
An operator who is accompanied onboard by a person who is at least 18 years old and possesses the required Boating Safety Education Identification Card, provided that person is attendant to and responsible for the safe operation of the vessel.
A nonresident who has in his or her possession proof that he or she has completed a NASBLA-approved boater safety course or equivalency examination from another state.

Is my out of state certification ok?

Florida law allows a visitor from another state to use proof of completion (in the form of a card, certificate or something similar) from another state as long as it meets the standards established by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). This applies only to visitors from other states; Florida residents must present proof of completion of a Florida boating safety course (approved by NASBLA and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission).

I live out of state with no certification, can I take a license test?

Yes. There are several approved proctors. we recommend BoatTests101. The current price is $8.99. You can check them out here.

Can I take your boats into the Gulf open waters?

Deck boats and pontoons are only allowed in the ICW waterways due to the safety concerns of the boats and open waters.

Are animals allowed on your boats?

We LOVE dogs! We love dogs on our boats. Dogs MUST meet the owners and pass the lick test! Also, dogs must stay off the seats and be placed on the floor of the boats. Any rips, tears, stains etc... will be charged to the renters credit card if damage occurs.

What if I am running late at the end of the rental?

Things happen. You must contact Sandbarz points of contact immediately if something occurs. There is a $100 an hour late fee applied at the owners discretion. We are always prompt, we expect that of others as well.

Can someone teach me to be a better boater?

Yes of course! And we pride ourselves as helpful locals wanting to make boating lovers out of everyone. Call us and inquire about hiring a captain for your rental. This way you can learn and experience everything a day on our waters has to offer.

FAQ