Bareboat Charter vs Captained Boat Tours: What’s the Difference?
When booking a boat tour in Sarasota or a party boat in Siesta Key, you’ll usually see two very different options: bareboat charters and captained boat tours.
While both get you out on the water, the legal structure, guest experience, and flexibility are very different. Understanding the difference helps you book with confidence—and avoid operators who don’t follow the rules.
Here’s a clear breakdown 👇
What Is a Captained Boat Tour?
A captained boat tour is a traditional “for-hire” operation where:
The boat owner provides the captain
The captain is paid by the company
The trip is marketed as a tour
The vessel may be subject to passenger-for-hire regulations
These trips can be great for sightseeing or narration-based tours, but they often come with:
Fixed routes
Limited time flexibility
Restrictions on music, alcohol, or group size
You’ll commonly see these offered as sightseeing boat tours in Sarasota.
What Is a Bareboat Charter?
A bareboat charter is a private vessel rental where:
The charterer assumes control of the vessel
The boat owner does not supply a captain
The charterer independently hires a licensed captain
The trip is not marketed as a tour
This structure is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard and allows for a much more private, customizable experience.
Bareboat charters are commonly used for:
Sandbar hopping and celebrations
Why Bareboat Charters Offer More Freedom
Because bareboat charters are private rentals, guests enjoy:
Control over the itinerary
Flexible time on the water
Music, celebrations, and stops tailored to the group
A relaxed, non-rushed experience
This makes bareboat charters ideal for:
Bachelor & bachelorette parties
Birthdays & celebrations
Group outings
Custom sunset experiences
👉 Explore available options on our Private Boat Tours page.
How Sip N’ Slip Tours Operates Bareboat Charters the Right Way
At Sip N’ Slip Tours, we follow strict bareboat charter guidelines, including:
Written charter agreements
Independent, licensed captains
Charterer control throughout the trip
Pre-departure safety orientations
We also offer unique onboard amenities, including a boat-mounted trampoline and waterslide, making our charters unlike anything else in Sarasota or Siesta Key.
Learn more about our process on the How It Works page.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choose a captained boat tour if you want:
Narrated sightseeing
A structured group tour
Minimal decision-making
Choose a bareboat charter if you want:
A private group experience
BYOB freedom
Flexible itineraries
A true party boat or celebration atmosphere
If you’re unsure, our Bareboat Charter FAQs answer the most common questions.
Book the Experience That Fits Your Group
Whether you’re planning a celebration, sunset cruise, or private day on the water, Sip N’ Slip Tours delivers a professional, compliant, and unforgettable bareboat charter experience.
👉 Book your private boat charter here
📍 Sarasota & Siesta Key
🌊 Private Bareboat Charters
🎉 Party Boats | Sunset Cruises | Sandbar Trips