When it comes to chartering a boat, it is best not to do it on a whim. This is especially true if you plan a bareboat (no captain or crew) charter. There are some preparations that need to take place before heading out to the boat, including successfully passing an online boater safety examination. All non-residents are required to possess proof of completion of a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA)-approved boater safety course or equivalent examination from your home state. Charter companies will ask for this certification.

Whether planning a bareboat or crewed charter, make sure you know the terminology and rules of the water before climbing aboard. Your captain will appreciate it if you know port from starboard and what the head is. There are countless resources (including BoatUS, American Sailing Association, etc.) to make sure you are well versed before boarding. If possible, it is a good idea to practice docking, anchoring and safety drills, including man overboard, before embarking on your charter. Even on a crewed charter you may be put to work if the weather turns or a crew member becomes incapacitated. As always, be prepared!

Filing a Float Plan

It is important that you let someone know where you plan to go. While it is a requirement from most rental companies that they know where you are taking a vessel, we also recommend you file a float plan with someone who isn't going on the trip with you.

Boating excursions can be any length of time you are willing to commit. In the case of a charter, there must be some sort of travel itinerary in place so that the rental company knows where the vessel is headed. A reputable float plan will include your planned itinerary along with specifics of the vessel, including the size, model, boat name, passengers (plus crew, when applicable) and placement of emergency equipment (e.g., EPIRBs, PFDs, fire extinguishers, etc.).

Find more about 'Filing a Float Plan', here.

Types of Charters

The first question before planning a charter is whether a bareboat or a crewed option is best for you. Both have their pros and cons so due diligence is recommended before heading out on the water.

Bareboat Charter

A bareboat charter is a boat rental without a captain and crew to assist with operating the vessel. In this type of charter, the boat owner or charter company is giving possession of the vessel to the person renting it. In turn, the person renting the boat is liable for any damage that happens during use. The person chartering the boat is also responsible for captaining the vessel and/or finding crew to assist with lines and other tasks.

In addition, the renter is responsible for all operating expenses such as fuel, dockage and other expenses that might be incurred during the duration of the reservation. If your plans include spending a night at a marina, make sure to know the specifics of your vessel. (This applies to power or sail.) The marina staff will ask various questions, namely the overall length of the vessel (LOA), its draft, and power and water requirements. Most marinas charge by the foot, so this is another cost to keep in mind when setting a trip budget. Even if you are on a fixed budget, a marina is the easiest and safest place to leave the boat as you explore ashore.

Be sure to ask the charter company what is included in your bareboat charter, so you know ahead of time what to bring. Some charters include paddleboards, flotation vests and snorkel equipment and almost all will include a tender to get you to shore.

Keep in mind that you must complete an application to bareboat that will ask about your prior boating experience. It is up to the charter company whether they think you can handle their vessel without a captain and crew.

Crewed Charter

A crewed charter is a better choice for a less-experienced boater. This means you will have a captain and one to two crew members on board with you and your guests. The crew members will often be responsible for preparing meals and handling dockage. Take advantage of this opportunity to ask questions. These experts can be a great source of information, especially if you are considering moving from a boat renter to a boat owner. They can answer questions more honestly and candidly than someone out to make a sale.

In a crewed charter, the company is responsible for the boat, including any damage incurred while underway. However, if the renter incurs damages due to a negligent action while aboard, he/she is responsible for the costs of repairs.

Insider tip: If you know who will be crewing for you ahead of departure, consider asking a co-worker his/her preferred food or beverage of choice. Present this at the end of the trip as a gift for a job well done. Yes, the crew is getting paid, but this measure of thanks will make you a standout client should you become a repeat customer.

Power or Sail?

Since there is pretty much a boat for every lifestyle, you should know what is required for you and your party before making a reservation. There's no sense in calling a charter company that only deals with 50-foot powerboats if you are picturing yourself aboard a 30-foot sailboat.

Powerboats

A sailboat can never compete with the speed of a powerboat. Most sailboats can go no more than 7 knots, while powerboats can travel at speed up to 30 knots on a calm day. The speed of the boat depends on the model (and size/number of engines), but keep in mind that the higher the RPMs, the lower the fuel efficiency, which equals more money out of pocket. Boats do not sip fuel. Most powerboats have an optimal cruising speed so check with the company when reserving a specific boat for recommended speeds.

Another consideration is space. A powerboat typically offers more amenities (i.e., private cabins and multiple heads) and more overhead clearance (for taller folks). Charter powerboats include bow riders, pontoon boats, cabin cruisers and luxury yachts.

Sailboats

Sailing in the Keys provides the un-rushed and laid-back experience that matches the character of the islands. If you want to feel the rhythm of the ocean and the warm, gentle breeze on your face, a sailing charter is for you.

In the case of a crewed sailboat charter, you can actively participate in the sailing experience. There is more work involved to get from point A to point B but that can be a draw of its own. Sailing is an excellent teamwork activity for friends, family and coworkers.

One obvious advantage of sailing is that it can be much easier on your budget as you won't have to fuel up as often. Your auxiliary power will likely be an efficient (and fairly quiet) diesel or gas engine.Many charter companies in south Florida offer on-the-water sailing instruction and certification. This allows newbies to concentrate on fundamental skills, while old salts can use their time to hone their skills or work toward higher-level certifications. This instruction can last from three days to a week.

Catamarans

A compromise for those looking to experience the romance of sailing with the amenities associated with a motor yacht might opt for a catamaran. A catamaran is a vessel with two hulls, and there are both sail and power versions.

Sailing cats typically have an easy sail plan for beginners and two engines to make dockside handling a breeze. "Power cats" are propelled by a large engine in each hull and are comparable to fast trawlers. A catamaran's hulls are large enough to accommodate large cabins and comfortable living areas. Catamarans have expansive wide decks that allow everyone to relax on a charter and share the views.

Catamarans are especially popular in the Keys because they have a shallow draft and are very stable, even in the worst blow. Catamarans can also travel faster than a sailing yacht due to the reduced friction of the hulls.