Boating the Intracoastal

Question

Hey Guys. My wife and I are excited to see the Atlantic for the first time. We are booked at Margaretville for a mid-September extended weekend visit. And were interested in chartering a small boat w/captain to explore the Intracoastal just for a couple of hours during our stay. Yeah, I know, boating capital of the USA. I've found plenty of listing for just about any price range imaginable. So, I'm hoping you guys can help me narrow down my search with your recommendations for this activity. We're not looking for group tours or party activities. Just 2 older adults looking for a relaxing cruise and to explore the area from a boater's perspective. We don't mind paying for a quality experience. But I'm worried about getting rolled over with all of the extra fees I keep seeing on different rental sites.

Any insight you may have would be much appreciated.

Thanks

Randy

Answer

Hi Randy, that sounds like a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Intracoastal and the Atlantic! Hollywood is a great spot for a peaceful boating experience, and there are a number of charter services that cater to your preferences—private, relaxing, and free from the party crowds. Here are a few recommendations that should provide the experience you're looking for:

Sunshine Boating – They offer private, customizable boat tours with a professional captain. Their charters are very personalized, so you can explore the Intracoastal in a relaxed way, focusing on the areas that interest you most. The company prides itself on providing quality, private tours, and they won’t try to upsell you with unnecessary extras. The boats are clean, well-maintained, and great for a relaxing day on the water. They offer hourly rates, so you can choose exactly how long you want to be out on the water.
Gulfstream Boat Club – Located a little north in Fort Lauderdale, Gulfstream offers luxury yacht and boat rentals with experienced captains. Their tours are tailored to your interests, from cruising the Intracoastal to enjoying a peaceful day near the coast. They have excellent reviews for providing a relaxing and smooth experience. They also offer all-inclusive pricing that covers everything from fuel to the captain’s fee, which is helpful to avoid any surprise costs.
Charter One Yachts – If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, Charter One offers private boat charters with experienced captains for an intimate experience on the Intracoastal. They cater to people looking for a serene cruise, and their pricing is transparent with no hidden fees. They can customize the itinerary to your preferences, ensuring a relaxing and scenic outing. The boats are well-equipped, and the service is top-notch, making it worth the investment for a quality experience.
Hollywood Beach Marina – For a more local option, you can consider booking a private boat through Hollywood Beach Marina. They offer smaller boats with captains who are familiar with the local waterways. They can take you on a scenic, peaceful cruise through the Intracoastal and give you a local perspective on the area. Since it's a smaller operation, you can often find better rates, and they’ll be transparent about all costs upfront.

To avoid hidden fees, it’s best to confirm the full cost up front, including captain fees, fuel, and any other potential add-ons (like gratuities). Ask about all-inclusive packages, which can make it easier to understand what you're paying for. Most reputable companies will provide clear, all-in pricing, so if you’re concerned, definitely clarify this before booking.

I hope this helps, and you have a wonderful time cruising the Intracoastal! It’s a beautiful way to see the area and enjoy the water without the crowds. Enjoy your trip!

Boating the Intracoastal

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