5 Tips for the Best Summer Boat Rental

The sun and warmth are back in Tampa Bay, and the time has never been better to take out a boat and explore the water. But how do you get ready? And what should you bring?

Summer boat rentals are some of the most fun you can have around Tierra Verde, but there are a few things you can do to make them even better. Keep reading for our must-see tips for your boat rental this summer!

1. Get Your Operator License Done Early!

If you were born on or after January 1st, 1988, you’ll need an operator license to take out any boat rental in Florida. We used to offer in-person tests for your certification, but when you’re waiting to start a fun day on the water, the last thing you’ll want to do is a surprise test! 

That’s why we encourage all of our customers to get their certification online, right here. It’s just $9.99, and you get study materials, infinite attempts to pass the test, and it means you’ll be able to show up and get out on the water as quickly as possible. What’s not to love?

2. Bring Drinks, Snacks, and a Plan

It’s easy to forget because the water is so cool and refreshing, but the bad news is that boats can get pretty warm, especially if you plan on driving around the bay for awhile. But the good news is that you’re more than welcome to bring your cooler on board!

We recommend loading up your cooler with ice and your favorite refreshments so that you can stay out and enjoy the day without getting uncomfortable. Be sure to bring snacks, too, since swimming and exploring can eat up a lot of energy!

Finally, if you’re taking out a full-day boat rental (and we recommend you do), make some lunch plans! There are lots of boat-friendly restaurants in the area, so figure out where you’re going to stop off for a break so you’re not hungry and cranky on what should be a fantastic day!

3. Crank Up the Tunes

Who wants a quiet boat rental? Not us! When you’re driving between boating activities, fun music really makes all the difference, and it keeps the party vibe going between stops. So make sure you bring a great playlist, because you’re DJing!

Nearly every boat in our fleet is equipped with a bluetooth radio, so all you have to do is sync up your phone, turn up the music, and make the most of a gorgeous day!

4. Bring On the Sun Protection

During the summer in Florida, we’d guess that the average person is told to put on sunscreen at least a million times a day. And it’s not a super fun message, but it’s true! It is hot out here, and the sun is beating down, so you want to make sure you’re applying and reapplying sunscreen throughout the day. If you think you’re overdoing it, put some more on just to be safe!

It’s not all about the sunscreen, though. A wide-brimmed hat can keep the sun out of your eyes, which is even more important when you’re the driver. We also encourage wearing thin layers in light colors to protect your skin without trapping all that heat.

It’s no fun to plan for sun protection, but take our word for it, you’ll be glad you did!

5. Enjoy the Water Sports

You can take out a boat at pretty much any time of year, but water sports are something that most people will only enjoy in the summer! The warmer weather means the water is much nicer, so taking a dip is much more fun in June than in January.

We rent out water sport equipment with our boats, which means all you have to do is tell us what you want! Keep in mind that fishing boats cannot use our water sports equipment that has to be tied to the boat. But for the rest of our boats, we rent out:

• Water skis
• Inner tubes
• Wakeboards
• Snorkeling gear 

Start Making Memories

Being out on the water is something that truly everybody can enjoy. And there’s no better time, so take these tips and make the most of your next boat rental!

You can book your next rental online, or you can call us at (727) 867-0077 and do it over the phone! However you decide to book your summer boat rental, we’ll do everything we can to give you the best time possible!