Avoid These Common Mistakes When Renting a Yacht in Miami

If it’s your first time renting a yacht in Miami, you’re not alone. Most groups don’t know what to expect… and they end up learning the hard way. After hosting over 750 yacht charters, we’ve seen it all: the good, the bad, and the oops-we-didn’t-think-of-that. Let’s ensure your experience is smooth, safe, and absolutely unforgettable.

Here are the most common mistakes when renting a yacht in Miami, and how to avoid them, according to your Miami boat experts at Vice Boat Club.\

❌ Mistake #1: Arriving Late to the Charter

Your charter time starts exactly at the hour booked, whether you’re on board or not.

⛔ Most common misunderstanding: “If we’re late, can the trip be extended?” Not usually, because boats often have back-to-back charters or marina time restrictions.

✔ Best practice: Arrive 20–30 minutes early so everyone can use the restroom, take photos, and board calmly.

❌ Mistake #2: Underestimating the Marina Location & Travel Time

Miami traffic + weekend schedule = chaos if you don’t plan ahead.

Example:Going from Brickell to Miami Beach Marina at 3 pm on a Saturday can take 40–60 minutes.

✔ Best practice: Plan extra time for Uber delays, parking, and walking within the marina.

❌ Mistake #3: Not Knowing the 13-Passenger Rule

This is a strict U.S. Coast Guard Regulation, not a company rule. No yacht under charter in Miami can carry more than 13 passengers, regardless of size.

✔ Best practice:

If you’re 14+ guests:

✓ rent two boats that travel together

✓ or consider a party pontoon if group size allows

❌ Mistake #4: Bringing the Wrong Food & Drinks

Here are real issues we’ve seen:

🍷 red wine staining white boat upholstery)

🍾 champagne flutes too tall (tipping while cruising

🥘 rice & saucy dishes spilling everywhere

🧊 bringing large coolers when we already provide one with ice

✔ Best practice:

Bring foods that are easy to handle:

• Sandwiches

• Finger snacks

• Chicken tenders

• Sushi rolls

• Cheese boards

• Fruit trays

  And choose cans over glass when possible.

❌ Mistake #5: Not Respecting the Crew’s Instructions

Your crew is there to:

✔ keep you safe

✔ guide you through Miami waters

✔ anchor correctly

✔ assist with service

✔ help with photos & fun

But also, they are managing:

⚓ navigation

⚓ docking

⚓ monitoring tides

⚓ watching nearby vessels

⚓ operating equipment

✔ Best practice:

Listen to them: they know the water better than anyone.

❌ Mistake #6: Booking Only Based on Lowest Price

Some charters online look like a “great deal”, until you arrive at:

🚫 a different boat than advertised

🚫 unexpected fuel charges

🚫 hidden fees

🚫 last-minute crew charges

🚫 unsafe vessels

🚫 zero insurance

✔ Best practice:

Always book with trusted companies and ask for a contract. If there’s no contract... that’s a red flag.

❌ Mistake #7: Choosing the Wrong Time Slot

Here’s a quick guide:

11–3 PM → best for tanning & chill vibes

12–4 PM → our most popular party charter (bachelorettes and birthdays love this time slot!)

4–8 PM → sun + golden hour + sunset + slight night

5–9 PM → perfect for local yacht parties!

We already wrote a blog on the best time of day for a Miami bachelorette boat. Make sure to read it.

❌ Mistake #8: Expecting the Boat to Be Like a Nightclub

Miami waters have designated quiet zones, and it’s important to respect residents, nature, and maritime rules.

Your crew will guide you to:

🎉 party-friendly sandbars

🌊 zones with music allowed

📸 best photo spots

🏝 scenic anchor locations

Just trust the crew. They know exactly where to go.

❌ Mistake #9: Not Having the Boating Safety Certificate (New 2025 Law)

If the person signing the bareboat charter was born after Jan 1, 1988 — they must show boating safety certification.

We also wrote a complete guide on this. Including where to get the license in 20 minutes.

✔ Final Tip: Ask Questions Before Booking

The BEST customers are the ones who ask:

• which boat fits our vibe?

• where does the yacht depart from?

• will we have time to swim?

• is there shade?

• how loud can we play music?

We LOVE answering those. 🤍Because your experience starts way before you step on board.

📞 Want guidance from a real expert? So you don't do any mistakes when renting a yacht in Miami

Text Sofy, Miami’s yacht specialist, at: +1 786-824-4913, or submit your inquiry via our Get a Quote form, and we’ll match you with your perfect boat.