What to Bring on a Biscayne National Park Boat Trip

3 hours ago

4 min read

You've booked your day on the water. Now comes the fun part: getting ready. After years of running private charters in Biscayne National Park, I've seen what makes a day go smoothly and what people wish they'd packed. Here's my captain's list, plus everything we already have waiting for you on board.

Sun Protection Comes First

The Miami sun on the water is no joke. It reflects off the bay, so you're getting it from above and below, even on a cloudy day. This is the most important part of your packing list.

A long-sleeve UPF sun shirt. This is my number one tip. It keeps you covered without having to reapply sunscreen every hour, and it's cooler than you'd think. Most regulars swear by them.
Reef-safe sunscreen. Biscayne National Park protects living coral reefs, and regular sunscreen ingredients can harm them. Choose a reef-safe formula and put it on before you arrive at the dock, so it has time to soak in.
A hat. Something that stays on in the wind is best. A strap or a snug fit helps when we're cruising.
Sunglasses. Polarized lenses cut the glare and help you see into the water, which makes spotting fish, turtles and the bottom a lot more fun.

Swim Day Basics

Swimsuit. Wear it under your clothes so you're ready to jump in at the sandbar or snorkel stop.
Towels. One per person is a good rule, and a spare never hurts.
A change of clothes. Nice to have for the ride back, especially on a breezy winter afternoon.
Water shoes (optional). Handy for walking on the sandbar or around the islands.

Food and Drinks

You're welcome to bring whatever food and drinks your group likes. Snacks, sandwiches, fruit, a full picnic spread, all of it.

Water, and plenty of it. Staying hydrated in the sun makes a big difference in how you feel at the end of the day. I keep a cooler on board with ice, water and an assortment of drinks, but bring your favorites too.
Alcohol is welcome for guests 21 and over only, in moderation.
No glass bottles, please. Glass can break on a moving boat, and broken glass on deck or in the water is dangerous for everyone. Cans and plastic are the way to go.
Soft-sided coolers are welcome. They're much easier to store on the boat.

If you're planning to stop at Boca Chita Key, remember that the island has no shops and no running water, so pack everything your group will want for the day.

What We Provide

You don't need to haul a bunch of gear to the dock. Here's what's already taken care of:

Snorkel gear. Masks, snorkels and fins are provided, and every set is cleaned after every trip. Of course, if you have your own mask that fits just right, feel free to bring it.
A floating water mat. Free on request. Just let me know when you book, and it'll be ready for your sandbar or swim stop. It's a guest favorite for kids and adults alike.
Bluetooth audio on both boats. The Mako 253 and the Sea Casita both have Bluetooth sound systems, so bring your playlist and set the mood.
Life jackets for everyone on board.

Nice Extras

A dry bag or zip-top bag for your phone, wallet and keys.
A waterproof phone case if you want photos from the water.
Bug spray if you're heading to the islands, especially later in the day.
Any medications you need, including motion sickness remedies if you're prone to it. Take them before the trip, not once you start feeling it.

What to Leave at Home

Glass bottles and containers. This one's worth saying twice.
Hard-sided coolers, if you can avoid them. Soft-sided coolers are much easier to store on the boat.
Pets, if you're planning to visit Boca Chita Key. The park doesn't allow them on the island or on boats in its harbor (service animals are the exception).
Anything you'd hate to get wet or lose. Keep valuables to a minimum.

Before You Head Out

We depart from the floating dock at Loggerhead South Miami Marina, inside Black Point Park & Marina, 24775 SW 87th Ave, Cutler Bay, FL 33032. Every guest signs a liability waiver before the trip, and we take up to 6 guests per boat.

Not sure which trip is right for you? We run a 2-hour Boca Chita trip on the Mako 253 on weekdays at 9 AM, 12 PM and 3 PM, plus 4, 6 and 8-hour private charters on both boats, an island camping shuttle and fishing trips on the Mako.

Let's Get You on the Water

Got your bag packed? Then let's go. Book at coastalrunners.com, email hello@coastalrunners.com, or call or text 305-842-1119. If you have a question about what to bring, just ask. I'm happy to help.

See you on the water, Captain Pablo

Gratuity isn't included in the trip price. If you enjoyed your day on the water, a 20% tip for your captain and crew is customary and always appreciated.