Frequently Asked Questions- Florida Keys
How do I get to the Keys?
From Miami, FL: Marathon, the site of Marathon Boat Dock, is about 111 miles from Miami. To reach Marathon, take I-95 South and take a slight right at US-1, driving for 7 miles until taking another slight right at SR-878. Go for 3.4 miles, then merge onto SR-874 South. Then, merge onto SR-821 S and drive for 16.7 miles. Be advised that these last three roads are at least partial toll rolls. Take the US-1 South exit, then follow US-1 southward for 77 miles. You'll be at Marathon.
Click here to see a map and directions for the Florida Keys.
When do I pick up the boat?
The boats can be picked up after 9 am.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
Maximum capacity on any of the houseboats is 6 people.
What will the temperatures be like on my trip?
The Florida Keys are moderate all year, warm rather than hot, but never cold. Temperatures tend to be steadily within the 70s and 80s whether you're visiting in December or June. The only seasonal difference is perceptitation. Summer is wet and winter is dry, although showers tend to be quick even in summer. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hand of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.
If you’re concerned about your ability to handle the boat, you may arrange for a captain to guide you out of the marina or drive you to a specific destination on the lake.
What is the billing schedule?
The damage deposit on the boat is due at the time of reservation. Your full rental amount is due upon arrival.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It’s helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you’re most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
The Florida Keys are naturally popular. The earlier the better is a good rule to follow, particularly if you have an exact date in mind for your trip, or if you’re planning a trip over a holiday weekend.
However, if you’re flexible with your dates or the exact houseboat model, we can almost always find a trip for you even a few weeks before hand.
Where is the nearest grocery store so I can stock up before my trip?
Marathon has two chain food stores and a number of restaurants. Alternatively, you can have your houseboat stocked with food before you arrive, for an additional cost.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
All renters must be 21 with a valid drivers license.
Do I need a license to operate the houseboats, or is a skipper provided?
There is no special license needed to operate our houseboats. There are rules for operating houseboats on the waterways, and we will explain them to you upon your arrival.
Can I fish from the houseboat?
Fishing the ocean isn't quite like fishing in fresh water - it's more exciting. You can fish the depths or the shallows, perhaps finding such species as kingfish, wahoo, mackeral, tuna, sailfish and an entire variety of fish too numerous to list.
