Boating Safety 101

GET READY FOR YOUR BOAT RENTAL

If you’ve recently booked a boat tour with Sunny Life Boat Tours or are considering it, we have exciting news: beyond being an absolute blast, boating has substantial benefits for your well-being and mental health. However, before you embark on your journey, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with some essential safety tips. The United States Coast Guard (USCG) regularly provides guidelines on safe boating practices, which might initially seem overwhelming. But fret not, dear newcomers to boating—we are here to assist you in navigating these waters!

Here are some guidelines to ensure that your time on the water with Sunny Life Boat Tours is both enjoyable and secure. Even if you’re on a boat tour with a skilled guide, prioritizing safety is paramount. Here are the top safety recommendations for motorboat rentals with a captain:

Weather Awareness:

While a day on the water amidst breathtaking scenery sounds delightful, it can take a turn for the worse if inclement weather strikes. Before embarking on your boat tour, check the day’s weather forecast. Dress in layers if it’s cooler, as even during summertime, conditions can change rapidly. Be aware that temperatures drop quickly on the water. Always carry a jacket and an extra set of clothes, and don’t forget sunscreen or a hat for sun protection. Keep in mind that if the weather becomes genuinely hazardous, the boat rental company will cancel the tour, but you should always be prepared for natural elements.

Life Jacket Knowledge:

Life jackets, although not the most stylish attire, are of utmost importance. Having a personal flotation device readily available is one of the primary safety measures to observe during a guided boat rental. Regardless of your swimming prowess, never assume you don’t need one. By law, children aged 6 and under must wear Coast Guard-approved life jackets on vessels smaller than 26 feet. Regardless of your age, Sunny Life Boat Tours provides personal flotation devices on board for your use, along with a safety ring buoy in case of an overboard incident.

Common Sense:

Before commencing your boat adventure, tour operators should provide guests with a briefing on the itinerary, duration, and expectations for the trip. Equally important is the location of safety equipment on the boat. Pay close attention to these instructions, as well as recommendations regarding clothing and personal items. Familiarize yourself with safety protocols and the placement of safety equipment on the vessel before the tour commences. Throughout the boat ride, apply common sense and adhere to safety guidelines.

If you’re planning a guided boat excursion, whether it’s a fishing trip or a motorboat tour, safety is always the top priority. At Sunny Life Boat Tours, our knowledgeable captains are dedicated to delivering a seamless and secure experience. They will guide you through the picturesque Miami River in Downtown Miami, Star Island, Millionaire Row, and Fisher Island, all aboard US Coast Guard-approved motorboats. Contact us today for additional details on our comprehensive boat trips and guided tours!

Ask Us Anything!

Whether it’s a special Miami boat rental request or a question, we are here to help! Drop us a line through the form below.

Frequent Boat Renters Questions

  • We include a giant floating mat and inflatables for free
  • The boat comes with a cooler
  • Bluetooth Speakers
  • All safety equipment
  • Our kindness and smiles.
  • Gas, Captain fee and Taxes are included in the price you see on the front page.
  • Star Island
  • Haulover Sandbar
  • Downtown Miami
  • Biscayne National Park
  • Key Biscayne
  • Miami Beach
  • Stiltsville
  • Nixon Sandbar
  • Elliott Key
  • Oleta River State Park
  • Matheson Hammock Park
  • Venetian Islands
  • Towel
  • Camera
  • Sunglasses and a hat
  • Bring comfortable clothes (no jeans!)
  • Bathing suit and Sunblock (eco-responsible).
  • Extra cash

Free cancellations until 7 days before the booking start date.
50% refund for cancellations between 3-7 days before the booking start date.
Cancellations within 3 days of the booking start date are non-refundable.
No show (15 minutes late) = no refund.

  1. Identification: You’ll need a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to verify your identity and age.

  2. Captain (mandatory): In Florida, if you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you may need a valid Boating Safety Education Identification Card (commonly referred to as a boating license) to operate a boat. However, if you plan to rent a boat with a captain, this requirement does not apply to you. Aquarius Boat Rental provides a licensed captain to navigate the boat for you and that is mandatory on all our boats.

  3. Rental Agreement: You’ll be required to sign a rental agreement provided by the boat rental company. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the rental, including rental duration, payment, and safety rules.

  4. Payment: Have a valid form of payment ready to cover the boat rental fees. Payment methods may include credit cards or cash, depending on the rental company’s policies.

  5. Reservations: It’s a good practice to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure the availability of the boat you want.

  6. Safety equipment: For your own safety, the boat is equipped with all the safety equipment required by the U.S. Coast Guards. Passengers older than 6 years old are not required to wear a life vest while underway. That being said, if you are more comfortable wearing the life vest while on board, you are more than welcome to. Please inform us if you plan to bring more than 1 child under 6 years old so we can plan the life jackets accordingly. Make sure you check out our boating safety page.

 

Ask Us Anything!

Whether it’s a special Miami boat rental request or a question, we are here to help! Drop us a line through the form below.