PORT SANIBEL MARINA BOAT RENTAL FAQs

• Are there any restrictions on where we can take the boat?

  The boundaries for rental boats include north through the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway) to Sanibel Island, Captiva Island, North Captiva Island, Cayo Costa Island, and Cabbage Key. Rental boats are not allowed east through the Caloosahatchee River, north to Matlacha, in the Gulf of Mexico, or south to Fort Myers Beach / Lovers Key.

• Do I need a special license to rent a boat?

  All power boat operators must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver’s license. If the operator was born in 1988 or after, they will additionally need a valid Florida boater’s license.

• I’ve never operated a boat before, do I need to take a class?

  We suggest all boat operators take an online boating safety course prior to operating a motor vessel. Additionally, we provide thorough instruction on operating the specific vessel once you arrive to the marina.

• What should I bring on the boat?

  The essentials are water and sunscreen! You’ll probably also want to pack beach towels, a cooler with snacks and beverages, sunglasses, and bug spray. If you forget any of the essentials, you can pick them up at our Ship Store.

• Can I bring alcohol on the boat?

  Alcohol is allowed on the boat for passengers to enjoy – it is prohibited for the operator to be under the influence while boating.

• Does everyone in my group need a fishing license?

  Anyone fishing from a boat, pier, or beach is required to have a valid Florida fishing license. You can purchase a fishing license at gooutdoorsflorida.com or by calling 1-888-347-4356.

• What should I do if the boat breaks down?

  At Port Sanibel Marina, we take pride in our fleet and perform regular maintenance to ensure our boats are in top condition for our customers to have the best possible experience on the water. However, if the boat breaks down, please contact us at (239) 437-1660  as soon as possible to report the problem and your location. We will make arrangements to have another boat, if available, delivered to you or have the vessel towed back to the marina.

• Do I have to wear a life jacket on the boat?

  Adults are not required to wear personal floatation devices (PFDs). Children 12 years and younger are required to wear PFDs while boat is underway. By law there must be one (1) PFD for every person and one (1) throw cushion per vessel.

• What is included in the rental cost?

  The price of the boat rental does not include tax or fuel. Every boat leaves the marina with a full gas tank and will be topped off upon return to account for the fuel used.

• Can I bring my dog on the boat?

  Sorry, you’ll have to leave Fido at home – animals are prohibited.

• What should I do in a storm?

  We keep a close eye on the radar and do not take any chances when it comes to bad weather. However, storms can come up unexpectedly. If you see bad weather heading your way, head back to port immediately. If the storm is between you and land, either wait it out or head in the opposite direction of the storm. Lastly, if you do get stuck in a storm, anchor boat, stay low to the floor, and wait for the weather to pass.

• When does the boat need to be back at the dock if I rent the boat for a full day?

  Full day rentals are from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. All rentals must return to Marina by 4:00 PM or renter will incur a $75.00 late fee for each thirty (30) minute interval beyond 4:00 PM.

• How long is a half day rental?

  Half-day rentals are in four-hour increments starting at 8:00 AM. The last departure time for a rental is 12:00 PM. All rentals must be returned to Marina by reservation’s end time or renter will incur a $75.00 late fee for each thirty (30) minute interval beyond reservation’s conclusion.

• Do we require a deposit to confirm a boat reservation?

  All reservations require a deposit of 25% of the total reservation amount. Customers will receive a full refund or credit of the deposit if cancellation notice is submitted at least 72 hours prior to reservation commencement time. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to extreme weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Reservations cancelled inside 72 hours will forfeit deposit.