ITINERARY
You are thinking about buying a motor boat, or you recently bought one, but you don’t have the experience to comfortably head out on the water by yourself. Or, you might instead wish to rent a boat without having to hire a captain.
With Keys Boat Tours, based out of Big Pine Key Resort (MM33), you learn how to: a) dock a boat in different situations, b) drop and retrieve an anchor, c) understand weather, wind, and tides, and d) drive a boat with confidence. You also have the option to learn how to properly trailer a boat (1 hour). You put the boat in and take it out. We start by taking a look at a chart. We review some physical aspects to the boating safety course and some other practical advice. We review local navigation, so that you truly understand markers and don’t run aground. This is a “must take” course for: a) anyone who is not 100% confident in operating a boat, b) anyone who is buying/purchased a boat, and c) anyone who wants to boat safely and properly. Hands-on training is required for all. Classroom lessons are great, but this is the true test.
This first of its kind, official hands-on boating course is; 4 hours, up to 2 individuals. The Lesson comes with our compendium book, BOAT FISH LIVE written by Capt. Brian Branigan. It includes the motor boat lesson, a sailing overview, and fishing guide to the Keys.
The lesson takes place at 33000 Overseas Highway on Big Pine Key on our 23' center console Bulls Bay motorboat. We'll also offer to come to you and use your boat or rental boat ($100 per hour travel time, e.g., Key Largo +$200). We introduce you to your boat (and boating playground), and can even put tracks on “your” GPS. This 4 hour “private” lesson will start your boating life like nothing else.
We also offer: Fishing 101, and local / backcountry navigation 101 lessons. You will gain lots of confidence from what you learn too – guaranteed. Makes a great gift!
RATES
Sale Price $675 / 2 PEOPLE
| 1 Person | $700 | Price for 1 person for 4 hours |
|---|---|---|
| 2 People | $750 | Price for 2 people for 4 hours |
| Extra Time | +$75 | Per hour |
| Book | included | BOAT FISH LIVE |
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
- BOAT FISH LIVE compendium book by Capt. Brian Branigan
- Lesson Folder with Checklists, Apps and local information
- Water & Gatorade
- Life Jackets
THINGS TO BRING ALONG
Sunscreen (reef safe), long sleeve sun shirt, hat, neck gaiter, sunglasses, wind breaker, bandana, personal water bottle and snacks.
NOTES
- A signed Release Waiver is required prior to boarding.
- We accept Cash, Credit Card, Venmo, or Zelle as payment. Payment is due the day of the tour. Credit card payment is subject to 7.5 % sales tax and a 2.6% service charge fee.
- We may ask for a credit card number or a $50 Venmo / Zelle deposit to reserve the date of the tour.
- Health: if you have any cold, flu or other worrisome symptoms, we ask that you please skip the outing. And please inform us of any medical conditions that you might have: diabetes, epilepsy, allergies, etc. We respect your privacy, but we need to know.
- If prone to seasickness, we recommend that you take Dramamine (or other) as directed.
- We want you to drink plenty of water, have something to eat, and use sunscreen liberally
- It is our goal to be a highlight of your visit. If such is the case, thanks very much for your gratuity. 20% is customary but give what you feel right.
- We have a 48-hour cancellation policy, and the Captain reserves the right to cancel any trip due to weather and/or any other circumstances.
- If weather is an issue we will ask about your availability for another day or time.