- Departing daily from Kingfish Boat Ramp, Holmes Beach · Free parking
Everything you need to know
What to pack, how to tell a legal charter from an illegal one, and exactly where to meet us on the morning of your trip.
PACKING FOR THE DAY
Eleven things to bring on a boat day
Pack light — a cooler with ice and bottled water will be waiting aboard. Additional amenities vary by experience and may include basic snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, giant floats, shelling equipment, and sandbar and water toys. Please see your individual tour page for exactly what is included.
Sunscreen & Sunglasses
Protect your skin and eyes from the sun's glare. Avoid using spray sunscreen on the boat to prevent any mishaps.
Thin, Quick-Dry Towel
Opt for a lightweight, quick-drying towel that won't take up much space in your bag.
Wallet and Cash
A quick stop for a drink at a waterfront bar or a small bite to eat during the charter. Also, consider tipping your captain in cash for their hard work.
Bucket Hat or Baseball Cap
Stay protected from the sun with a hat that shields your face and neck.
Extra Drinking Water
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially under the hot Florida sun. Don't forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Snacks
Pack convenient, easy-to-eat snacks for a quick bite during your tour. Avoid messy or elaborate items.
Shoes that Can Get Wet
Prepare for potential beach stops by wearing water-friendly shoes such as sandals or flip-flops.
A Swimsuit
Be ready for a spontaneous swim and enjoy the water to the fullest.
Lip Balm with Sunscreen
Keep your lips moisturized and protected from the sun's rays.
Sweatshirt
Prepare for potential weather changes by bringing along a light sweatshirt.
Simple First Aid Kit
Include essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and non-drowsy motion sickness medication in case of emergencies.
What’s Included: Included equipment varies by experience. Every charter includes required safety equipment, a cooler with ice and one bottled water per guest. Sandbar Island Hopping and Bachelorette Charter include our larger recreational equipment package. Snorkeling Adventure includes basic snorkeling equipment plus shelling nets and buckets. Egmont Key Excursion includes shelling nets and buckets for beachcombing. Please see the individual activity page for exactly what is included with your charter.
What’s Included: snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, the giant floating ring, sandbar and water toys, shelling nets and buckets, a cooler with ice, bottled water, Bluetooth sound system and all required safety equipment.
KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK
Don't get caught on an illegal charter.
Coast Guard Requirements for Charter Operations
MMC
Merchant Mariner's Credential
Ensure that the captain possesses a valid Coast Guard-issued Merchant Mariner’s Credential. This credential must be onboard and available for inspection.
COI
Certificate of Inspection
For boats carrying more than six passengers, including at least one for hire, verify that the vessel complies with all Coast Guard safety regulations. Ask to see a valid Certificate of Inspection. Smaller vessels may undergo a voluntary Uninspected Passenger Vessel (UPV) safety exam and display a UPV decal.
D&A
Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Enrollment
Charter employees are required to participate in a drug and alcohol testing program. The captain or operator should be able to provide proof of enrollment in this program, either in the form of a letter from a third-party administrator or a wallet-size enrollment card with the individual’s name and expiration date.
Ensuring compliance with these Coast Guard regulations will help guarantee a safe and secure charter experience.
ANNA MARIA ISLAND, FL
Kingfish Boat Ramp
752 Manatee Avenue, Holmes Beach, Florida 34217
- Charters depart from the ramp on Manatee Ave
- A quarter mile from the Publix grocery store
- Free parking on site
- Arrive by bike or golf cart if you'd rather