Frequently asked questions.



Q: Where do we pick the boat up?

A: Our boats are in the water at your time of arrival, the location is Bellair Boat Ramp. (we can trailer closer to you depending on the day and availability)

Address: 3900 W Bay Dr. Belleair Bluffs, FL 33770 United States

Q: How old are your boats?

A: The fleet at G.H. Pontoon rentals is comprised of a variety of boats. The fleet can change from season to season or even month to month as new boats are added and older models removed. In general, no vessels or motors in the fleet are older than 3 to 4 years old.

Q: Do I need a boating license?

A: Yes, if you are born after January 1, 1988. You can apply to get a temporary boating license in the state of Florida here. Please follow these easy 4 steps:

  1. Register and pay the course fee.

  2. Study the material and/or take the test.

  3. Once you’ve passed the test, complete your certificate info and create your 4-digit PIN.

  4. Download or print your course completion document and bring it with you.

If you have a boat license from other states, they may be applicable in the state of Florida if bearing an NASBLA accreditation.

Q: How old do I need to be to rent a boat?
A: Renters must be 23 years of age to rent. 

Q: Is there a security deposit? 
A: We require a $250.00 security deposit per vessel. The funds will be released once the vessel has finished the Return Check-In.

Q: Do you charge for fuel?
A: Yes, we take the fuel charge out of the security deposit. We fuel the boats back up after you return with the vessel. 

Q: Can I take the boat anywhere? 
A: No, we will limit the riding area based on water conditions. Normally the riding area for rental boats is in the intra-coastal and near coastal waters

Q: How late in the day can I rent a boat? 
A: For safety reasons, everyone must be back at the docks at least one hour prior to sunset. Our operating hours are 9:00 AM to 1 hour before sunset, every day if the weather permits. 

Q: Can I make reservations? 
A: Yes, you may make a reservation for any boat, we recommend planning weekend trips at least three days in advance and even farther ahead for holiday weekends.

Q: What time should we arrive? 
A: Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your departure. We need sufficient time to instruct the driver on the riding area, particulars to their float plan, and orientate them to the features of the boat. If you’re late, you are cutting into your rental time.

Q: What is the cancellation policy?

A: A 72-hour notice of cancellation is required to avoid a $100 cancellation fee. No-call/no-shows will be charged the full rate of their reservation.

Q: What if bad weather strikes? 

A: If you make a reservation and the weather is bad (Small Craft Advisory, Marine Hazard Statement, Limited Visibility), there is no cancellation fee. You have the option to cancel or to reschedule for a better time or day. We recommend scheduling your boat rental at the beginning of your stay in the area to allow for cancellations in case of bad weather.

If you are already on the water when the weather turns bad, you will only be charged for time on the water, or until you are back at the docks.

Q: What if the boat breaks down? 

A: Should the vessel develop any issues during your trip, call us IMMEDIATELY for assistance. We can solve problems very quickly, but only if we are made aware of the issue.

Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish? 

A: Yes, in Florida you must now have a fishing license anytime you put a line in the water. Contact the FWC for purchasing a fishing license at 1-888-347-4356 or at myfwc.com.

Fishing is not available on all vessels; check with staff if your vessel can be used for fishing.

Q: Can we pull a tube behind the boat? 

A: No, for safety and insurance reasons we do not allow the vessel to be used for any towing activities.