
FAQ Bayou Boat Rentals in Port St. Joe
What types of boats are available for rental at Bayou Boat Rentals?
We offer a variety of pet-friendly boats powered by Suzuki and Yamaha, including Double-Decker Twin-Slide Pontoons, tritoons, pontoons, and Carolina Skiff flat-bottom fishing boats. With options for groups of 2 to 12 passengers, there’s a boat for just about every adventure. Our fleet features trusted brands including Bentley, Leisure Kraft, and Carolina Skiff, with options perfect for fishing, cruising, snorkeling, scalloping, or simply enjoying a day of family fun on St. Joseph Bay.
What equipment is included with the boat rentals?
Each of our rental boats comes equipped with a bimini top, all safety equipment required by Florida law, life jackets for every passenger, a dive flag, and a swim ladder. Infant, child, and youth life jackets are available upon request. Fuel is included in your rental, and every boat leaves the dock with a full tank, so you’re ready for a full day of fun on St. Joseph Bay.
What activities can I enjoy with a rental boat?
Our boats are perfect for fishing, snorkeling, scalloping, shelling, dolphin watching, picnics, and spending quality time with family and friends. Explore the beautiful waters and seagrass beds of St. Joseph Bay, discover local marine life, and take in the peaceful scenery surrounding Cape San Blas and Port St. Joe. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing day on the water, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Do I need a boating license to rent a boat?
If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, Florida law requires you to complete an approved boater safety course and carry proof of completion while operating a boat.
If you already have a valid boater safety certificate or card issued by another state that meets NASBLA requirements, it may satisfy Florida’s boater safety education requirement.
A temporary 90 day online exam boaters exam certificate is available at boatus.org.
What should I bring for my day on the water?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, towels, snacks and refreshments, plenty of water, and a Bluetooth speaker if you’d like some music on the water. If you plan to fish, be sure to purchase your Florida saltwater fishing license before your rental. Saltwater fishing licenses can be purchased in advance at local tackle shops or online through Florida’s Go Outdoors licensing system. license.gooutdoorsflorida.com.
Can I bring my pet on board?
Absolutely! We’re pet-friendly, so your furry family members are welcome to come along and enjoy a day on the water with you! 🐾
Please keep in mind that T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park does not allow pets on its beaches or natural shoreline. If you’re bringing your pup, be sure to plan your stops accordingly. 🐾
For current pet rules and permitted areas, please visit the official T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park website 🐾
Is fishing allowed on the rental boats?
Absolutely! St. Joseph Bay offers excellent fishing opportunities. 🎣 If you plan to fish during your rental, be sure to purchase your Florida saltwater fishing license before arriving at the dock. Licenses can be purchased in advance at local tackle shops or online through Florida’s Go Outdoors licensing system.
How do I reserve a boat, and should I book in advance?
We strongly recommend reserving your boat in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak season, to ensure availability. You can easily reserve online through our Boat Rentals tab, or give us a call at (850) 441-9343 for questions or assistance with your reservation.
Where is Bayou Boat Rentals located?
You can find us at 1989 County Rd 30A, Port St Joe, Gulf County, FL 32456.
Are children allowed on the boats?
Absolutely! Our boats are family-friendly and enjoyed by guests of all ages, from babies to grandparents.
Florida law requires children under six years old to wear a life jacket at all times while the boat is underway. We provide infant, child, and youth life jackets at no additional charge and keep a variety of sizes available at the dock. Just let us know which sizes you need when you arrive!

How old do I have to be to rent a jet ski?
You must be at least 21 years old to rent a jet ski.
Jet ski operators must be at least 16 years old and present a valid driver’s license.
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, must also have a valid Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card or other approved proof of boater safety education (from your state) before operating a jet ski.
My 15 year old has their driver’s permit & Boaters license, can they operate a jet ski?
No.
Jet ski operators must be at least 16 years old and present a valid driver’s license.
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, must also have a valid Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card or other approved proof of boater safety education (from your state) before operating a jet ski.
What is provided with a jet ski rental?
Each of our jet ski rentals comes equipped with all required safety gear per Florida law, life jackets for all riders (with child and youth sizes available upon request), and an anchor. Fuel is included, and every jet ski is sent out with plenty of fuel for your rental, whether you’re riding for 1 hour or 4 hours.
You’re welcome to bring your own mask and snorkel if you plan to stop and swim or snorkel during your rental. Please note that dive flags are NOT provided with jet ski rentals. If you plan to enter the water and a dive flag is required, you are responsible for bringing and properly displaying your own dive flag in accordance with Florida law.
Can I hire a Captain to drive our rental?
Yes! If you’re not comfortable operating the boat yourself, you’re welcome to hire a qualified captain for your day on St. Joseph Bay. You will rent the boat directly from Bayou Boat Rentals and arrange and pay for your captain separately.
Hiring a captain is also a great option for bachelorette and bachelor parties, family excursions, group outings, celebrations, or anyone who simply wants to sit back, relax, and enjoy the bay without having to drive the boat.
Not sure who to call? We recommend Captain Brittany at (850) 630-2721 or Captain Bryan at (850) 247-8529. Both have extensive boating experience and are very familiar with the beautiful waters of St. Joseph Bay.
Captain availability and pricing are separate from your Bayou Boat Rentals reservation, so we recommend contacting your preferred captain in advance.
Do you offer sunset charters?
Yes! Captain Bryan offers private sunset charters upon request and based on schedule availability. Sunset charters are typically 2 hours, with departure times varying throughout the year based on the daily sunset time.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful colors of St. Joseph Bay while your captain handles the driving. You’re welcome to bring your own food, drinks, snacks, and refreshments to enjoy during your cruise. Sunset charters are perfect for couples, families, friends, celebrations, date nights, and special occasions.
To request a sunset charter and check availability, call or text Bayou Boat Rentals at (850) 441-9343. We recommend scheduling in advance. 🌅🚤