Staff Answer
Jun 29, 2026 - 06:24 PM
Most of the time, the 1hr is the actual rental block, but the way each company handles the clock can be a little different, so this is one of those things I would ask before you book. In a standard setup, check in, waivers, ID check, boating card, life jackets, and the safety talk happen before your ride time starts. Once they send you out from the dock, that is usually when the rental time begins. With that in mind, if your group shows up late, still needs to take the Florida boating test, cannot find IDs, or takes a while getting everyone ready, that can cut into the experience because the next reservation may already be scheduled behind you. I would plan to arrive at least 30min early, especially in summer when parking, traffic, and check in lines can slow everything down. The safety talk itself is not usually long, but it matters because they are going to explain no wake areas, boundaries, how to reboard, where not to ride, and what to do if something feels off.
