FAQ
Ready for some fun on the water? Book your trip today and get ready for an amazing adventure!
In the event of inclement weather prior to boarding, your tour can either be rescheduled or refunded. If the Captain has already left the dock and must return prior to the completion of the tour, a discount will be applied in increments of 25%, 50%, 75% depending on length of voyage.
All major cards accepted including Apple Pay.
FULL REFUNDS ON DEPOSITS ARE GIVEN IF CANCELLATION NO LESS THAN 48 HOURS FROM DEPARTURE TIME. NO REFUNDS PROVIDED WHEN TWO OR MORE CAPTAINS ARE REQUESTED FOR A MULTI BOAT CHARTER, REGARDLESS OF THE TIME.
At this time, we do not offer food or drinks. However, a cooler and ice is available.
Fishing and watersports are not offered at this time.
The legal limit is 11 passengers (or 1,610 pounds) per the manufacturers plaque
Tampa Bay Pontoon Rentals, LLC follows Federal and State laws. Additionally, we do not allow smoking or glass bottles on the vessel, and have the right to terminate a charter without refund if passengers are belligerent, destructive, or engaging in any other acts the Captain deems inappropriate or unsafe.
Yes, dogs are welcome aboard our pontoon boats! We love seeing well-behaved pups enjoying a day on the water with their families.
- There is a $100 non-refundable cleaning fee per dog.
- A maximum of two dogs are allowed per rental.
- All dogs must be under the owner’s control at all times (leashed when appropriate) and must not disturb other guests or damage the boat.
- Please clean up after your dog promptly and bring waste bags. We appreciate your help keeping our boats clean for the next guests.
Yes — while dogs are generally fine on the boat itself, local county and city ordinances restrict dogs on many beaches, parks, and landing areas around Tampa Bay. Focus on these boat-accessible spots where dogs are explicitly welcomed:
Recommended dog-friendly destinations reachable by boat:
- Fort De Soto Park (Pinellas County) — Features a dedicated dog beach and Paw Playground (off-leash in designated areas). Excellent boat ramp access with floating docks. Leashed dogs are also allowed in many other parts of the park. This is one of the best and most popular options for boaters.
Additional tips:
- Many open-water sandbars (such as those near Bunces Pass between Shell Key and Fort De Soto) are popular anchoring spots and generally dog-friendly for swimming and playing, as long as you clean up after your pet.
Recommendation: Plan your route around these verified spots. Rules can change and are often posted on-site or enforced by marine patrol — always check current conditions or signs when you arrive, and research specific access points before departing. Fines may apply for violations.
Other tips for boating with dogs
- Consider a dog life jacket for safety.
- Bring fresh water, waste bags, towels, and shade/shelter from the sun.
- Watch for heat — boats can get very hot.
- Inform us in advance when booking so we can note it on your reservation.
If you have more questions about our pet policy or trip planning, feel free to reach out! We want you and your furry crew to have a safe, fun day on Tampa Bay.
At Tampa Bay Pontoon Rentals, we prioritize safety and compliance with Florida law. To rent and operate one of our self-driven (no captain) pontoon boats, the designated operator must:
- Be at least 21 years old (our company policy).
- Meet Florida’s boating safety education requirements under Florida Statute § 327.395.
Florida Boating Safety Education Requirement
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 must carry proof of boating safety education to legally operate a vessel with a motor of 10 horsepower or greater (all of our pontoons exceed this). Florida does not require a traditional boating license.
Easiest Option for Renters: Temporary 90-Day Certificate
Most of our customers (especially visitors) simply take the quick temporary online test. It takes about 30–60 minutes, and you get your certificate instantly after passing.
- Complete the test through any FWC-approved vendor (all mobile-friendly).
- Print or save the electronic certificate on your phone.
- Bring it with a government-issued photo ID to your rental.
Recommended temporary test links:
- BoatUS (popular & affordable)
- Boat Ed
- Ace Boater
- Full list: myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/temporary-certificate
Permanent Option (Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card)
If you prefer a lifetime card, complete a full FWC-approved boating safety course (online or in-person). This is not required for a one-time rental — the temporary certificate is sufficient.
Important notes:
- Operators born before January 1, 1988, are exempt from the education requirement but must still be 21+ per our policy.
- We require a valid photo ID at check-in to verify age and identity.
Helpful exemptions (even if born on or after 1/1/1988):
- Accompanied by a qualified operator 18+ who meets the requirements and is responsible for the boat.
- Non-resident with an equivalent NASBLA-approved course from another state.
- Operating within 90 days of completing an approved course.
Why these requirements exist
These rules help ensure everyone has a safe, responsible, and enjoyable experience on Tampa Bay. Following them protects you, your guests, and other boaters.
If you have questions about whether these requirements apply to you or your group, feel free to call or text us at (813) 445-7223 before booking — we’re happy to help!