Best Boats For Exploring Florida's Iconic Keys

The Florida Keys is a boater's paradise, with crystal clear waters and abundant marine life. When choosing a boat for the Florida Keys, there are several factors to consider, such as size, design, power, and features. The waters can be choppy, so selecting a boat that is large enough to handle the waves and provide a stable ride is essential. Additionally, the Florida Keys has shallow and rocky waters, so a boat with a shallow draft and good maneuverability is ideal. It is also important to consider the type of activities you plan to do, such as fishing, diving, or cruising.

Center console boats

One of the key advantages of center console boats is their 360-degree walk-around capability, which is ideal for fighting large fish. The deep V-hull design of these boats also enhances their performance in cutting through waves and providing a smoother ride. For those interested in snorkelling and diving, center console boats with stern or side dive doors offer easy access in and out of the water.

When choosing a center console boat, consider features such as comfortable seating, a bimini top for shade, and a swim platform. Additionally, look for rod holders and live wells if you plan to fish. While center console boats typically have excellent manoeuvrability, their larger size may limit access to some backwater areas and shallow waters.

Overall, center console boats are a popular choice for boaters in the Florida Keys due to their versatility, spaciousness, and ability to handle offshore waters. They provide a comfortable and functional platform for a range of activities, making them a good option for both seasoned and novice boaters.

Cat boats

Stability and Smooth Ride

The twin-hull design of cat boats provides exceptional stability, making them ideal for trolling or drift fishing. Their wide stance gives them a generous amount of deck space compared to monohull boats of similar size. Additionally, cat boats offer a remarkably smooth ride, even in choppy waters and bigger waves.

Shallow Draft

The twin-hull configuration of cat boats allows them to draft much less water than monohull boats. This feature is crucial in the Lower Keys, where many areas of skinny backcountry water are off-limits to deeper-draft boats. Cat boats can access shallower areas that other boats cannot, providing more exploration options.

Easy Water Access

Spacious and Comfortable

Maneuverability

In summary, cat boats are an excellent choice for boating in the Florida Keys due to their stability, smooth ride, shallow draft, easy water access, spaciousness, and maneuverability. They provide a comfortable and versatile platform for a range of activities, from fishing and diving to simply cruising and enjoying the natural beauty of the Keys.

Deck boats

When it comes to rental rates, deck boats offer a range of options. For example, a 23-foot Sea Hunt Escape Deck Boat with a 250 hp Yamaha engine can be rented for $400 per day or $350 for a half-day, while a 27-foot Bayliner Deck Boat with a 200 hp Yamaha engine is slightly more affordable at $375 per day or $325 for a half-day. Weekly rates for these boats are $1,800 and $1,600, respectively.

If you're looking for a boat that provides a balance of fun, versatility, and affordability, a deck boat could be an excellent choice for your Florida Keys adventure.

Bay boats

On calm days, you may see Bay Boats out in the Gulf Stream trolling for Mahi, or even on the flats polling for bonefish. They are a great all-around boat for the Lower Keys and, if you are looking for something with good offshore capabilities and a longer range, a Bay Boat may be the choice for you.

Flats boats

If you've never boated in the Lower Florida Keys, renting a flats boat is a great way to explore the backcountry without the risk of an expensive grounding of a larger boat. Just remember, the super-shallow draft comes at the expense of comfortable family seating.

Frequently asked questions