Florida Yacht Charter - West Coast

West Coast Florida Yacht Charter Guide

Navigating Florida’s turquoise blue seas aboard a private yacht is the quintessential sailing experience, combining sun-kissed beaches, luxury living, and pure adventure.

From the sugar-fine sand and crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys to the bohemian atmosphere of downtown Tampa and sport fishing in Boca Grande, the West Coast of the Sunshine State is the promised land of unforgettable Florida yacht charter vacations.

Reasons to Charter a Yacht on the East Coast of Florida

The Gulf Coast of Florida is best known for its warm waters and stunning soft sand beaches, rivalling those of the Caribbean.

From pristine, unspoiled shores and fantastic scuba diving and snorkelling cosy spots to the glitzy Marco Island’s beachfront resorts, Florida yacht charter guests can explore a dream world of powdery white sand and silky aquamarine waters.

Beach living aside, the Gulf Coast boasts Old Florida charm, cosy marinas, world-class dining and shopping experiences, and vibrant nightlife in Tampa, Key West, and Naples.

Here are the top three reasons to consider Florida yacht charters on the West Coast:

Natural Beauty

With thousands of miles of breathtaking coastline and gorgeous waterways, the western shores of Florida open a world of spectacular scenery and rich marine life.

Tranquil, secluded anchorages, unspoiled beaches, and dreamy sunsets are a signature experience when it comes to West Coast Florida yacht charters, while scuba divers and adventure lovers will enjoy the stunning Florida Keys and the world of the Everglades National Park teeming with wildlife.

Spotting manatees and dolphins from the deck of your own yacht is a truly memorable experience while snorkelling and picking seashells can be an excellent pastime to relax and unwind.

Old World Chic and Glamour

Famous for pastel-coloured houses and Old Florida nostalgia, Sanibel, the quaint town of Boca Grance, and Marcos Island live and breathe romance and charm.

For those seeking hotspots to party the night away, Tampa is the place to see and be seen, while Naples is famous for its upscale atmosphere, high-end shopping opportunities, and sophisticated dining experiences.

Action and Adventure

West Coast Florida yacht charters are perfect for luxurious holidays filled with sunbathing, island-hopping, and exploring the vibrant local culture and sights.

However, the Gulf Coast of the Sunshine State is also a playground for adventure seekers. West Coast Florida offers world-class golfing, sport fishing, scuba diving, surfing, and deep-sea fishing.

Featured West Coast Florida Yacht Charter Destinations

Embarking on a voyage along Florida’s stunning West Coast on a private yacht is an unparalleled experience. Crafting your itinerary, however, means navigating through a plethora of choices: from the rich appeal of Naples and Tampa to the awe-inspiring beauty of national parks, islands, and beaches, there’s so much to explore.

Below, we list some of the best West Coast Florida yacht charter destinations:

Tampa

Famous for its large estuary, beautiful waterways, and great beaches, Tampa is a bustling city with a vibrant social and cultural scene where Cuban influence merges with the upbeat energy of West Florida. Hip bars, trendy restaurants, designer shops, and luxurious hotels abound Downtown, while Tampa Bay is famous for its white sand beaches perfect for sunbathing and splashing in the turquoise blue waves.

Boca Grande

Located on Gasparilla Island, Boca Grande is a charming little town boasting historic buildings, a cosy Miller’s Marina, and an array of restaurants, bars, and local shops downtown. The Nearby Cayo Costa is ideal for beautiful anchorages to enjoy the famous Gulf Coast sunsets in privacy and quiet.

Sarasota

Boasting one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Florida, Sarasota is known for its bohemian atmosphere, arts and music scene, and beautiful botanical gardens. Home of great cuisine and craft beer, Sarasota is ideal for a laidback visit and a day out on the Siesta Key beach. The nearby Venice Beach is an excellent spot for surfing and snorkelling.

Naples

One of the most upscale places in South Florida, boasting lavish golf courses, high-end shopping opportunities, and fine dining, Naples is a popular destination for luxury yachts. In addition to its affluent vibe, Naples is great for dolphin-watching and beautiful beaches.

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island

Just thirty miles off the coast of Fort Meyers, Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle.

Low-key and brimming with that nostalgic Old Florida charm, Sanibel is great for browsing boutique shops and sampling local cuisine, while kayaking along the mangrove forests in Tarpon Bay makes for a perfect adventure in nature.

Marco Island

Marco Island, located at the southernmost tip of Florida's Gulf Coast, is a chic destination popular among the rich and the famous.

Luxury resorts, elaborate cocktails, and fine dining define life on the island, while its beautiful sun-drenched beaches invite sunbathers.

For nature and wildlife lovers, the nearby Ten Thousand islands between Marco Island and Lostman’s River mouth open up a world of mangroves. Ten Thousand Islands are a maze of waterways, mangrove islets, and islands teeming with rare land, marine, and bird wildlife.

Florida Keys

A stunning archipelago of coral cays, Florida Keys, is an iconic charter yacht destination nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Stunning coral reefs, turquoise blue waters, and laidback island life make the Florida Keys a perfect destination for scuba divers, fishing aficionados, and travellers looking for excellent snorkelling spots.

Each island has its own charm and personality, but Key Largo and Key West stand out as the most alluring spots for a sailing vacation, boasting a thriving bar and restaurant scene along with great beaches and beautiful scenery.

Alternative Sailing Destinations: East Coast of Florida

While Florida’s West Coast boasts warm waters, powder-fine sand beaches, and unique experiences, it’s eastern shores are just as captivating. If you’re looking to add more adventures to your sailing itinerary, here are some of the best East Coast Florida destinations to consider:

Miami

The capital of boating in Florida, Miami is a must-visit for those looking for glitz, glamour, and a touch of that iconic South Florida lifestyle. From the buzz of South Beach and Miami Beach to the scenic waterfront of Biscayne Bay, Miami is the hottest sailing destination in Florida.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is often called the Venice of America thanks to its network of beautiful inland waterways – and, arguably, it’s rich culture and arts scene. Whether it’s splurging on designer gear on Las Olas Boulevard or sampling delicious local cuisine in high-end city restaurants, For Lauderdale offers up a menu of luxury and sophistication.

Palm Beach

Famous for its International Boat Show, stunning historic landmarks, and boutique shopping, Palm Beach is Florida’s Monte Carlo, surrounded by beautiful cays and beaches lined with palm trees.

The Bahamas

Situated just a day’s sailing from the southernmost tip of Florida, the Bahamas is a tropical archipelago boasting Caribbean culture, spectacular coral reefs, and paradise-like beaches surrounded by turquoise waters. Ideal for family fun, party seekers, and nature lovers alike, the Bahamas is the crown jewel of sailing in the region.

When to Visit: Weather

The best season to sail around Florida is from October through the end of June. Because of the Gulf Stream, Florida enjoys sunny days year-round, but the period between July and late September might be challenging due to the region's hurricane season.

The Cost of a Florida Yacht Charter

Exact pricing for a West Coast Florida charter yacht might be difficult to determine because various factors, such as the boat's size and style, are at play.

Most motor yachts will cost between $30,000 and $50,000 per week. Catamarans and motor boats with higher guest capacities may cost $70,000 - $80,000 or more, whilst a luxury yacht charter with a professional crew (as opposed to a bareboat charter) might cost $100,000 to $200,000 per week or more. An upscale superyacht may cost up to a million dollars.

Find Yacht Charters That Offer the Right Features

Selecting a charter boat for a sailing vacation is a very personal choice.

Whether you want to spend your time at sea resting or entertaining guests, upmarket amenities and facilities on board offer a great experience.

Here are a few important aspects to consider when comparing your options for a yacht charter in Florida:

Jacuzzi or Hot Tub

Admiring the surroundings and enjoying the sunset from the top deck of a luxury yacht is a great way to unwind and relax after the day’s adventures.

Water Toys

For charter yacht guests seeking action and fun, water toys like paddleboards, jet skis, foils, snorkelling equipment, and kayaks are a must, especially as Florida’s beautiful waters offer so many opportunities to enjoy the sea.

Large Swimming Deck

The ability to leap into the sea is an important component of the sailing experience. Look for yachts with spacious swimming decks so you can easily reach the beautiful blue ocean.

Movie Room

Chartering a motor yacht with an onboard movie theatre provides an opportunity to view a classic film on a calm evening as a wonderful distraction.

Book Your Dream Yacht Charter Today

Florida is one of the world’s most famous and diverse sailing locations. Cruising the Gulf Coast on a motor yacht and enjoying the magnificent coastline, idyllic islands, and vibrant towns is an incredible experience combining ultimate freedom and luxury.

Explore your own yacht charter possibilities today and embark on a trip of a lifetime.