Whether you're a seasoned boater or new to the waters, we’re here to provide you with everything you need for a safe and fun experience. From essential licensing information to the latest weather and tide updates, fishing spots, and conservation organizations, we’ve compiled the most trusted resources for Florida boaters. Explore our hub to find exactly what you're looking for and let us help you make the most of your time on the water.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
The Florida FWCC is your resource for licenses, permits, regulations and more.
Watching the weather and tracking the tides are essential for Florida boaters. Especially in late summer and early fall, where boating season and hurricane season overlap. Here are some of our favorite places to check the conditions before you head out.
Here in the Sunshine State, it’s easy to find somewhere to cast a line. But if you’re searching for something like a boat ramp, pier, or artificial reef, here are some helpful places to start.
No, Florida does not have a traditional boating license. However, there are some requirements you must meet to legally operate a boat. Anyone born after January 1, 1988, must either successfully complete a National Association of Boating Law Administrators-approved boating education course, or an equivalent course/certification exam. Residents must carry their boating education ID and photo ID before operating a vessel with a motor of 10 horsepower or more. Visitors to the state must comply with the boating safety education requirements.
While this is a common question, we want to reiterate that a traditional boating license is not available in Florida. However, if you were born after January 1, 1988, you must pass an approved education course. Boaters must carry their education ID and photo ID before operating a vessel with a motor of 10 horsepower or more.
No, boat insurance is not required in Florida. However, it is highly recommended. Boat insurance can protect your investment, your assets and you. Additionally, if you finance or lease your boat, your lender may require you to have insurance on your boat. Some marinas also require insurance policies.
There’s an incredibly wide range of prices for boat insurance. As of late 2024, popular insurance agencies report their average annual costs anywhere from $500 to $800. Factors that can influence your final rate are your boat type, size, value and operations.
Motorized/powered boats operated in public Florida waterways must be registered. While there are some exemptions, most boats must be registered and titled within 30 days of purchase. You need to file an application for vessel registration and title with your county tax collector or license plate agent office.
Recreational vessels in Florida are all required to have safety equipment on board, but the specifics depend on the size of your boat. Common items include fire extinguishers, visual distress signals, backfire flame control and an anchor. You can find out what specific equipment you need by checking your vessel’s category with the FFWCC.
In order to continue spending sunny afternoons casting a line, we need to preserve and protect the spaces we have. Here are a few Florida-centered organizations that we recommend checking out.
Yamaha Marine Center of Jacksonville, a locally owned marine dealership established in 2011, is deeply rooted in the Florida fishing and boating community. We offer a full range of services, including new and used boat sales, a comprehensive parts store, and a variety of boat services and repairs.
Owned and operated by Don and Yvonne Passell, both Jacksonville locals, our dealership is independently family-owned, ensuring that all investments are funneled back into our local economy. The pair leads a customer-focused team that emphasizes professionalism and a “no high pressure” approach.
Yamaha Marine Center offers a variety of new boat brands, premium pre-owned inventory, and cutting-edge accessories from top brands like Garmin and SeaDek. Our new, state-of-the-art showroom and service facility in Jacksonville is open Tuesday through Saturday, and our team looks forward to serving you!
