Under US Coast Guard federal maritime law, uninspected passenger vessels (UPVs) can carry a maximum of 12 passengers for hire plus crew. Any charter carrying 13 or more paying guests must operate on a vessel holding a valid USCG Certificate of Inspection (COI).

Standard local cruising at idle speed (such as Biscayne Bay, Star Island, and Haulover Sandbar) is typically included in your base quote. High-speed ocean runs or long-distance transits incur supplemental fuel surcharges.

On bareboat charters with a hired skipper, maritime regulations often require you to pay the licensed captain directly at the dock ($50–$125/hr) to maintain a legally distinct demise charter agreement.

Standard charter gratuity across South Florida marinas is 15% to 20% of the base charter amount, handed in cash to the captain upon dock return.