It’s no secret: The best way to experience southwest Florida’s beauty is by boat. So grab your family and pack a picnic: Cannons can get you on the water today with the most convenient boat rental program in the area. Our fleet of rental boats—including center consoles, deck boats, pontoon boats and runabouts—caters to all kinds of on-the-water experiences, including cruising, fishing, and water sports. Rent a boat by the day, week, or month.
Longboat Key, Florida, is the best place in the state to rent a boat. You can cruise the turquoise waters of Sarasota Bay or the gentle waves of the Gulf of Mexico. You can drop anchor at any one of the region’s world-class restaurants. You can chill out with friends on a sandbar or enjoy a day of fishing. There’s a boat rental experience for anyone.
Cannons Marina, Boat Sales & Rentals is the best place to rent a boat on Longboat Key. Our fleet of rental boats—including center consoles, deck boats, pontoon boats and runabouts—caters to all kinds of on-the-water experiences. At Cannons, you can rent a boat by day, week, or month, including Bradenton boat rentals. Our knowledgeable crew is available to help you plan your itinerary and offer insider knowledge on the best places to spot dolphins, birdwatch, or stop for a picnic, we also offer fuel services and live bait on-site. Contact us today for more information on boat rentals near you!
Exploring Sarasota by boat opens up a whole new world of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and water activities. Here are some top things to see and do in the Sarasota area when you’re on a boat:
Cruise along this scenic waterway that runs parallel to the coast, providing smooth, calm waters for boating. You’ll pass by beautiful homes, mangroves, and small islands. It’s a relaxing way to explore Sarasota’s coastline while staying close to shore.
Sarasota Bay is a prime location for sightseeing by boat. You can enjoy views of the city skyline, visit small islands, or spot wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birds. It’s a beautiful place to anchor and take in the surrounding beauty of Sarasota’s waterfront and its barrier islands.
Take a small boat or kayak through the peaceful mangrove tunnels of Lido Key. These narrow waterways offer a unique, serene experience as you paddle through lush mangroves. The mangrove tunnels are a haven for wildlife, including fish, crabs, birds, and sometimes even manatees.
Although a bit further north, Egmont Key is reachable by boat from Sarasota and offers excellent snorkeling, historic ruins, a lighthouse, and secluded beaches. It’s a great day trip from Sarasota for anyone looking for a blend of history, nature, and underwater exploration.
Just north of Sarasota, you can explore the Manatee River, which offers lush landscapes, wildlife, and access to several waterfront restaurants. It’s a scenic river with calm waters, perfect for a relaxing boat trip or for fishing.
Boating around Sarasota gives you the opportunity to enjoy serene waterways, access hidden gems, and experience wildlife up close. Whether you’re cruising along the coastline or stopping at islands and sandbars, the area offers endless aquatic beauty.
This beach is renowned for its soft, powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. You can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Often ranked as one of the best beaches in the U.S., Siesta Key is a must for beach lovers.
Stroll through 15 acres of tropical plants, including orchids, bromeliads, and towering banyan trees. The gardens overlook Sarasota Bay, providing stunning views. It’s a peaceful retreat with lush landscapes, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Wander through 10 acres of tropical gardens and meet various animals, including flamingos, parrots, reptiles, and more. Perfect for families, especially if you enjoy interactive animal exhibits and lush greenery.
Visit the waterfront park for a relaxing walk along the bay, check out the art galleries, or dine at one of the many restaurants downtown. Sarasota’s downtown area has a lively arts scene and is a great place to spend an evening.
Sarasota offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures, making it a great destination for a well-rounded vacation!
You always win when you rent a boat from Cannons.
US Coast Guard safety equipment and charts are included for free.
The renter must be at least 26 years of age with previous boating and navigation experience.
If you were born after January 1, 1988 the State of Florida requires you to present a valid boating license at the time of rental.
Get your boating license here.
Anyone born after January 1, 1988 must have a valid boater’s safety card as required by law.
The renter is required to present a valid driver’s license and matching credit card. Credit cards accepted: American Express, Master Card, Visa and Discover credit cards and debit cards. Boat rental payment is taken upon booking and a five hundred dollar damage deposit is taken on the day of the rental.
Fuel, taxes and rental fees are additional costs.
Optional accessories available: fishing poles ($13 per day).
Bow riders and deck boats are equipped with a bimini top cover.
Center console boats have a T-top cover.
Boat Rental Sarasota cancellations must be made by phone 48 hours in advance of rental date. We do not charge if cancellation is due to bad weather and we reserve the right to cancel at any time.
Cancellations must be made by phone (941-383-1311) at least 48 hours in advance of time of the scheduled rental. Renters who cancel at least 48 hours prior to the time of the scheduled rental will receive a full refund. Renters who cancel less than 48 hours prior to the time of the scheduled rental will be refunded, less a $200 cancellation fee. No shows will be charged full rental price plus taxes.