Overview: Planning a jet ski or pontoon rental in Sarasota or Siesta Key? Learn Florida’s boating laws, age restrictions, life jacket rules, and safety tips to ensure a smooth ride.  Learn more!

Florida is a boater’s paradise, offering endless opportunities to explore stunning waterways like Sarasota Bay, Siesta Key, and the Venice Intercoastal. Whether you’re renting a jet ski in Sarasota or booking a pontoon rental in Siesta Key, understanding Florida’s boating laws is essential for a safe and hassle-free experience.

Who Can Operate a Boat or Jet Ski in Florida?   

Florida law requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, to have a Boating Safety Education Identification Card to operate a motorized vessel with 10 horsepower or more. If you’re planning a Siesta Key jet ski rental, make sure you complete an approved boating safety course online. Some rental companies also offer temporary certificates for visitors.

>> Related Reading: Personal Watercraft (PWC) Laws in Florida 

Age Restrictions for Jet Ski Rentals   

Thinking about speeding through Sarasota Bay on a jet ski? Florida law states that:

• Operators must be at least 14 years old to drive a personal watercraft (PWC) like a jet ski.

• You must be at least 18 years old to rent a jet ski.

• Passengers of any age can ride as long as they wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

Life Jacket Requirements   

For safety reasons, Florida law mandates that:

• All passengers under 6 years old must wear a life jacket at all times on any boat under 26 feet.

• Personal watercraft riders, including those on Siesta Key jet ski rentals, must wear life jackets at all times.

• Boats must have one life jacket per passenger onboard.

Understanding No-Wake Zones   

Florida is known for its strict enforcement of no-wake zones, which help protect marine life, shoreline structures, and other boaters. When navigating Sarasota Bay or the Venice Intercoastal, always look for posted signs indicating speed limits and wake restrictions. Failing to obey no-wake zones can result in hefty fines.

Here’s a quick guide on >> Why Are “No Wake” Zones Important for Boaters to Understand that you’ll love!

Alcohol and Boating: Know the Rules   

Drinking on the water might seem like part of the fun, but Florida enforces Boating Under the Influence (BUI) laws similar to DUI regulations on the road.

• The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08% for boat operators.

• Penalties include fines, jail time, and suspension of boating privileges.

• Law enforcement frequently patrols popular boating areas, so always designate a sober driver when renting a pontoon in Siesta Key.

Wildlife and Environmental Protection   

Florida’s waters are home to protected species like manatees, sea turtles, and dolphins. When renting a jet ski in Sarasota, keep these key rules in mind:

• Stay out of marked manatee zones and idle in shallow areas.

• Do not feed or disturb marine wildlife — this is illegal and can result in fines.

• Always dispose of trash properly to help keep Sarasota’s waterways clean.

Final Thoughts   

Renting a jet ski in Siesta Key or a pontoon in Sarasota is an unforgettable experience, but following Florida’s boating laws is crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure. By understanding these regulations, you can avoid fines, protect marine life, and make the most of your time on the water.

Interested in learning more? Reach out to us and enjoy the water experience you deserve!