Miami boat day checklist: what to bring, tipping and food

Bring sun protection, water, towels, a light layer, soft-soled shoes and a way to tip the crew. Many operators expect a crew tip on top of the listed price; check the quote. Food and drinks vary: only 5 of the 94 operators in our directory state on their site that drinks are included, so ask before you book.

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By the Miami Boat Finder editors · Updated Oct 23, 2026

What to bring

Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
Water, plus any snacks the operator allows
Towels and a swimsuit you can wear under your clothes
A light layer for the ride back, especially after sunset
Soft-soled or bare-foot friendly shoes
A dry bag or zip bag for phones and keys
Cash or a card for the crew tip

How much to tip the crew

Many operators expect a crew tip on top of the listed price, and some state on their site that gratuity is not included. Some operators add it to the quote, so check the total before you pay so you do not tip twice.

Food, drinks and BYOB

5 of the 94 operators state on their site that drinks are included. Whether you can bring your own food and drinks depends on the boat, so ask the operator directly. Many groups bring a cooler; confirm first, and ask whether ice and cups are provided.

What is often extra

Fuel: 12 of 94 operators state fuel is included.
Water toys such as floats or paddleboards: 19 of 94 mention them as included.
Crew gratuity: usually extra.
Catering, decorations or a DJ: ask for a quote.

Use the cost calculator to add these up for your group.

Questions to ask before you book

What is the total price, with fees and gratuity?
Is a captain included, and is fuel included?
How many guests can this boat take?
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
What happens if the weather turns? Summer afternoons in Miami often bring thunderstorms.
Which marina do we leave from, and where do we park?

Plan the rest

Boat rental prices Sandbar days Sunset cruises Bachelorette boats Departure areas Haulover vs Nixon sandbar

Driving yourself? Read boat rental without a captain in Miami.

FAQ

How much should I tip on a Miami boat charter?

There is no single published rate. Many operators expect a crew tip on top of the listed price; ask the operator and check your quote first.

Can I bring my own drinks on a rental boat?

It depends on the operator. 5 of the 94 operators in our directory state that drinks are included; for the others, ask whether you can bring your own before you book.

Is fuel included in a Miami boat rental?

12 of the 94 operators state on their site that fuel is included. For the rest, ask before booking.

What should I wear on a boat day?

A swimsuit, light clothes, a hat, sunglasses and soft-soled shoes, plus a light layer for the ride back.

Tell us your date and group, and we will rank the boats that fit.

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