Rental Requirements
A few simple boat rental requirements, and Paradise Boat Rentals will help you with the rest at pickup.
Rental Requirements
What You Need to Rent a Boat
Our boat rental requirements are short: bring a photo ID, know the Florida boater education rule, and plan to sign the rental paperwork at pickup or delivery. A licensed captain at Paradise Boat Rentals gives every renter an orientation before the boat leaves the dock, so you don't need to be an expert. Here's what to know before you book. For the full policies, see our rental terms.
Age and Security Requirements
The minimum age to rent a boat is 25. A $500 security deposit is required with every boat, payable by credit card when you pick up the boat.
The renter signs the rental agreement and is responsible for the boat during the rental.
Bringing Your Pet
Pets are welcome on our boats. The pet fee is $35 per day, per pet, and each pet must weigh less than 50 lbs. Look for Pet Friendly on each boat's listing.
Do You Need a Boating License in Florida?
Florida doesn't issue a boating license. Instead, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, who operates a boat with an engine of 10 horsepower or more must complete an approved boating safety course and carry a Florida Boating Safety Education ID card. All of our boats have engines well over 10 horsepower, so the rule applies to everyone who drives.
While operating, carry your Boating Safety Education ID card (or an accepted alternative) along with a photo ID. Some people are exempt, such as anyone accompanied on board by someone 18 or older who holds the card and is responsible for the boat.
A Florida Temporary Boating License (Temporary Certificate)
Visiting and don't have a card? The FWC Temporary Certificate Program lets you pass an approved exam and get a temporary certificate that meets the requirement for 90 days from the date it's issued. It isn't a permanent replacement for the ID card, but it covers a vacation. Find course and exam details at myfwc.com.
No Boating Experience? That's OK
You don't need to be an experienced boater. Your captain goes over the controls, the safety gear, the GPS and the map, and you'll watch a short safety video. Ask as many questions as you like before you head out.
How old to rent a boat with you?
The minimum age to rent a boat with us is 25.
Is there a security deposit?
Yes. It's $500 for every boat, payable by credit card when you pick up the boat.
What ID should I bring?
Bring a photo ID. If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, also carry your Florida Boating Safety Education ID card or temporary certificate while you drive.
Do I need boating experience to rent?
No. A licensed captain gives you a thorough orientation, and you'll watch a short safety video before you leave.
Book Now
Have a Question Before You Book?
Paradise Boat Rentals is happy to answer questions about requirements before your trip, whether you'll pick up in Cape Coral or stay in Fort Myers, Sanibel or Captiva. We also serve towns as far as Venice on request. Book Now or call (239) 758-9512.
Open daily 9am–5pm