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Tampa
Tampa

Tampa

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What to know before visiting Tampa

Rent a Boat in Tampa

With its close proximity and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no surprise that Tampa is a top boating hot spot along Florida's west coast. At 400-square miles in size, Tampa Bay is the state’s largest natural harbor and shallow estuary, making it an ideal home for marine life like bottlenose dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Events like the annual Tampa Boat Show and the legendary Gasparilla Festival draw millions of locals and tourists alike to the area’s waterways.

What To Know

When planning to hit the water in Tampa, consider these popular boat rental styles: 

 
Pontoon boats act as the ultimate party pad for both families, couples, and larger groups of friends, allowing for plenty of space to spread out onboard and easy anchoring at sand bars and islands, including Beer Can Island.
 
Deck boats, jet boats, and bowriders will provide a sport-centric ride, perfect for wakeboarding, water skiing, tubing, and even wake surfing. These boats are great for navigating the inland bays and rivers.
 
Center console fishing boats of all sizes will give boaters and anglers a smoother ride heading out into the Gulf of Mexico. Those interested in sport fishing for mahi-mahi or tarpon should plan for a longer cruise offshore into the open waters of the Gulf—where convertible boats will provide the best option.

Tampa is also a destination primed for exploration on personal watercrafts (PWCs). Island hop on your own, or opt for a guided tour around Tampa Bay.

Safety Requirements:

 
Boating License/Education Rules: All Florida residents born after January 1, 1988 who operate vessels with 10-horsepower or more must carry a Florida Boating Safety Education identification card. You must be at least 14 years of age to operate a personal watercraft (PWC).
 
Life Jacket Requirements: Children ages 6 and under must wear a PFD.

For more information, visit the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Where to dock your boat, or meet your rental:

 
Lands End Marina
 
Base Marina
 
Safety Harbor City Marina
 
Apollo Beach Marina
 
Tampa Convention Center Marina
 
Shell Point Marina
 

General info

Time Zone
GMT +00:00
3 hours behind
Currency
British Pound
1USD = 0.76GBP
Best time to visit
JUN
The Queen Birthday
Best time to visit
JUN
The Queen Birthday

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