Exploring AMI at Your Own Pace: Why We Love Compass Boat Rentals

Here at Crysten’s AMI Boat Tours, there is nothing we love more than taking our guests out on the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf Coast. We pride ourselves on providing unforgettable, stress-free captained boat tours around Anna Maria Island, where you can kick back, relax, and let us show you the local hidden gems.

But what if you want to be the captain for the day? Or what if you’re looking for a boat to keep at your vacation rental dock for the entire week?

When our guests ask us for the best place to rent a boat to drive themselves, we always point them to our local friends at Compass Boat Rentals. Recently voted one of the Best Boat Rental Companies on Anna Maria Island for 2025, they share our passion for authentic local hospitality and incredible days on the water.

Here is everything you need to know about renting a boat with Compass Boat Rentals during your AMI vacation.

Compass Boat Rentals boasts one of the newest and most pristine fleets on the island, specifically tailored for the shallow, beautiful waters surrounding Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, and Egmont Key.

Whether you have a small family or a large group, they have a vessel to fit your needs:

• Sunchaser Geneva 24′ Pontoon: Their most popular rental! This spacious pontoon fits up to 13 people, making it perfect for family cruising, sandbar hopping, or a casual day of fishing.
• Sylvan 25′ Tritoon: Looking for a slightly smoother, more stable ride? This 12-seater tritoon is powered by a Yamaha 150 engine, offering the perfect blend of comfort and performance.
• Hurricane Sundeck 237: If you prefer a deck boat, this dual-console beauty seats 10 and features a powerful Yamaha 250 engine, GPS, and a premium Bluetooth stereo system.

Just like Crysten’s AMI Boat Tours, the team at Compass grew up navigating the tides, canals, and sandbars of Anna Maria Island. They treat every guest like family, which is reflected in the incredible perks they offer:

• Dog-Friendly Boating: Don’t leave your furry best friend at home! Compass welcomes dogs on all of their vessels and even provides doggy life jackets upon request.
• Multi-Day & Weekly Rentals: While they do offer daily rentals, Compass specializes in 3-day and weekly rentals. If you rented a waterfront Airbnb with a dock, having a boat out back for your entire trip is the ultimate AMI luxury.
• Delivery Available: Located conveniently on Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach, they also offer boat rental delivery to surrounding areas to make your vacation as seamless as possible.
• Fishing Allowed: Want to cast a line? Compass allows fishing on select boats, so you can try your luck at catching local snapper, snook, or redfish.

Want to know the ultimate local secret for the perfect vacation? Do both! If you are new to navigating the Gulf Coast, navigating local tides and shallow sandbars can be tricky. We highly recommend booking a captained tour with Crysten’s AMI Boat Tours at the beginning of your trip. We will safely navigate you through the waters, show you the best spots like Jewfish Key and Egmont Key, and teach you the layout of the island.

Then, once you’re comfortable with the area, rent a pontoon from Compass Boat Rentals for the rest of the week so you can explore at your own pace!

If you’re ready to captain your own adventure, head over to Compass Boat Rentals to reserve your vessel online, or give them a call at (941) 877-0825.

And if you’d rather sit back, have a drink, and let a seasoned local do the driving—you know where to find us! Browse our captained excursions at Crysten’s AMI Boat Tours and let’s get you out on the water.