How Bareboat Charters Work in Miami – Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve been researching yacht rentals in Miami, chances are you’ve come across the term bareboat charter. But what does it actually mean? And why does it matter for your bachelorette party, birthday, or weekend celebration?

At Vice Boat Club, we’ve guided hundreds of groups through this process, so let’s break it down in simple terms. Here’s everything you need to know about bareboat charters in Miami, so you can book with confidence and enjoy your time on the water.

What Is a Bareboat Charter in Miami?

A bareboat charter means you are technically renting the boat itself, not booking a “tour.” You become the “responsible party” for the vessel during your rental. That doesn’t mean you’re left alone—far from it. You’ll always have a professional captain and, in many cases, a mate onboard.

The U.S. Coast Guard regulates this type of charter, and the biggest rule you need to know is: a bareboat charter can only carry up to 13 passengers plus crew.

Why the 13-Passenger Rule Exists

This rule is all about safety. Boats carrying more than 13 guests fall under a different category (“commercial passenger vessels”) and must meet strict inspection standards. By keeping it to 13, your group stays within safe, federally approved limits.

So, whether you’re planning a bachelorette, birthday, or guys’ trip, remember that 13 is the magic number.

Choosing Your Captain

One of the unique parts of a bareboat charter is that you have the freedom to select your captain. This ensures your charter is compliant and personalized. Captains must hold a U.S. Coast Guard license, so you’re always in safe hands.

At Vice Boat Club, we make this easy by providing you with a list of trusted captains who know Miami’s waters inside and out. They’ll not only navigate safely but also make sure your trip is fun, smooth, and unforgettable.

What’s Included in a Bareboat Charter

When you book a bareboat charter in Miami, you’re getting:

• Full use of the yacht and its amenities (lounges, A/C, bathrooms, sound system).

• Safety equipment like life vests and first aid.

• Flexibility to bring your own food and drinks (BYOB).

What’s Not Included

Technically, in a bareboat charter, the renter is responsible for hiring the crew, DJ, photographer, or catering separately. This can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.

That’s why at Vice Boat Club we make it simple:

• We connect you with our trusted network of licensed captains and mates.

• We offer add-ons like decorations, catering, boat provisioning, DJs, and photographers so you don’t have to spend hours searching on your own.

• Crew gratuity is not mandatory, but if you loved the service, 10–20% is the standard in Miami.

With us, you get the flexibility of a bareboat charter but without the stress of organizing every detail yourself.

Why Bareboat Charters Are the Best Way to Experience Miami

When you choose a bareboat charter, you’re opting for:

• Privacy – the boat is yours and yours only.

• Flexibility – you decide the vibe and destination, whether it’s Marine Stadium, Monument Island, or Nixon Sandbar.

• Value – yachts start at $800 for 4 hours. Split between 13 friends, that’s about $60 each—less than a night at a trendy club!

Final Thoughts: Why Understanding Bareboat Charters Matters

When you understand how bareboat charters in Miami work, you can book with peace of mind. From the 13-passenger rule to choosing your captain, the process is simple—and designed to give you the best possible experience.

Ready to start planning? Contact Vice Boat Club today and let’s make your Miami boat day unforgettable.