Toss your cooler and fishing rod in the boat – we’re hitting the waterways for some sublime good times…on the water!
Jacksonville’s expansive waterways have all kinds of fish for you to test your skills. It doesn’t matter if you’re after dinner or a solid catch and release; the action is guaranteed.
And while the fishing is world-class, don’t sleep on the views either. If you are quiet, you will spot osprey snatching baitfish, playful dolphins, moss-draped oaks, and maybe even manatees munching sea grass. Fishing not your thing? There are endless waterways to cruise, sand bars to explore and swimming spots to cool down in.
So, grab your gear, find your crew – we are chasing whatever bites as the tide rolls in. As you prepare to boat through Jacksonville, we will point out our secret hotspots on the water. You never know; you may just come back with more than stories!
Private Boating Experiences with Sublime Rides
Of course, our number one recommendation is, and always will be, chartering a private experience with us. While there are many boat rental companies available for you to operate your own boat, Sublime Rides will customize your excursions and experiences along our breathtaking waterways. Our private charters give you the opportunity to sit back and relax, and not have to stress over the launching and navigation of Jacksonville’s tricky waterways. We plan adventures entirely around each group’s interests from the beginning.
Sublime Rides recognizes clients’ preferences – whether seeking exciting wildlife, peaceful sunsets, celebrating a special occasion or partaking in a lively afternoon on a beautiful sand bar. Nothing is overlooked in our personalized planning.
On your charter day, our boat can carry up to six passengers comfortably. You get a variety of options for different party sizes, with child and pet accessibility as well. Three-hour cruises provide ample time to enjoy Jacksonville Florida’s natural beauty at a leisurely pace. Refreshments are provided in accordance with any dietary restrictions or preferences, and we will strive to make your day absolute perfection.
Contact Sublime Rides to start planning your own exclusive boating retreat!
The Best Boat Launching Spots
The Michael B. Scanlan Mayport Boat Ramp is located at 4870 Ocean Street, just east of the Mayport Ferry Terminal. This ramp provides direct access to the Atlantic Ocean via the St. Johns River. This makes it an excellent option for offshore fishing, as it has direct and quick access to the ocean. The tides are swift and strong here, so launching can be challenging for new boat operators. We highly recommend launching with someone who has experience the first few times, to get the hang of it.
If you’re launching small boats, jet skis or kayaks and want fast and direct access to sand bars and Fort George, use the Alimacani Boat ramp, this ramp will not accommodate larger trailers and boats but is perfect for smaller vessels, kayaks and paddleboards.
Jax boaters traveling to the ocean or Mayport jetties to fish use the ramp almost exclusively. It is the largest ramp in all of Duval County, capable of handling large trailers. Recent upgrades have reduced past issues with overcrowding on busy weekends, but parking is still limited, with only 75 trailer spaces available. Overflow spots are also available beyond the main parking lot. So, arrive early to grab a prime spot!
Some tips for getting the most from your outing:
- Arrive early or in the late afternoon to avoid peak crowds, especially on weekends in summer. Be prepared to park in overflow parking on holiday weekends!
- Check the tide chart and conditions beforehand, and ideally bring someone who can help safely launch and park your boat.
- Take care exiting and entering the river channel. The additional docks are helpful, so use them safely.
- Consider alternate nearby smaller ramps if traveling with less experience or a smaller boat, like the Beach Blvd boat ramp or Oak Harbor public ramp.
With direct access to prime fishing spots along the jetties, Mayport is a premier regional launch. Just exercise caution to fully enjoy Jax Florida’s watery playground.
Jacksonville Boat Clubs
If the dream of boating is calling you to the water, but boat ownership feels overwhelming, a boat club is the perfect solution.
Take Jacksonville Boat Club, for example. Their membership gives you easy access to an extensive selection of leisure and fishing vessels. Their collection includes ski/wake boats, deck boats, dual consoles, and more – all well-maintained so you can have fun and not worry about maintenance.
Boat clubs deliver numerous perks beyond the boats too. Jacksonville Boat Club offers amenities like full-service docking at Palm Cove Marina, including showers, restrooms, a pool, and a restaurant.
Best of all, there is no worry over winterization, repairs, or yearly expenses. Reserve your day on the water affordably with a monthly or annual plan. Plus, you will join a community of members who share your boating enthusiasm around Jacksonville’s magnificent waterways.
Another option for boat membership on a larger scale is Freedom Boat Club. Rather than dealing with maintenance and storage, FBC provides borderless access to boats across three continents. Members gain cultural experiences by cruising new destinations in Jacksonville and beyond.
Families cherish the relaxed connection on the water without the stressors like overnight docking logistics. FBC is a phenomenal way to explore waterways throughout Florida, the United States and further. If you’re an avid traveler and want to incorporate boating into your journeys, you’ll want to check out Freedom Boat Club.
Plan Your Jacksonville Fishing Charter
Fishing fanatics flock to our bountiful waters, from inshore bays to offshore waters. Area charters make it easy to access prized spots whether you are an experienced fisherman or a complete beginner.
Outfitters operate modern vessels equipped for comfort. Half, three-quarters, or overnight deep-sea trips target trophies like yellowfin tuna, mahi, and wahoo beyond 30 miles offshore.
Beginners can enjoy full-day inshore excursions on slightly smaller boats. Expect to catch spotted sea trout, redfish, and flounder in the calm St. Johns River or Intracoastal. Knowledgeable captains share invaluable skills and local information.
One of Jacksonville’s most trusted fishing charter companies is Regardless Fishing Charters, with Captain Alvarez. Let them handle all the gear, bait and navigating while you get to take in the beautiful ocean and enjoy secret fishing honey holes.
Looking for something more affordable? Check out Jacksonville’s Majesty Fishing’s larger fishing boat, accommodating dozens of charter guests, departing from Mayport. This is a great way to accommodate larger groups while keeping the cost down per person. They will provide all your bait, tackle and fishing essentials, as well as cleaning your catch for a fee.
Guests are encouraged to pack their own coolers with food, snacks and beverages for your full day out at sea. Advanced reservations are required via phone to book your next fishing charter with Majesty.
Paddle Into Adventures With Kayak Amelia
While Northeast Florida’s waterways invite independent exploration, guided trips with Kayak Amelia open big opportunities for learning about this extraordinary region.
They offer 2-hour tours through the Talbot Islands just south of Jacksonville. Experienced naturalists impart ecological insights. Beginners receive expert paddling instruction to build confidence.
For those new to the area, guided tours excel as compared to going alone. Captains share insider knowledge of tides, currents, and wildlife viewing spots. They’ll take you to popular sites like Boneyard Beach and locations from the water in a way car travel simply can’t replicate. Kayak Amelia removes concerns like choosing proper routes or equipment. They make sure their guests make the most of their visits in every possible sense.
Still want to give it a go on your own? There are rental companies for that. One of our favorites is Jacksonville Surf & Paddle. They offer a plethora of rental gear for hours, up to days at a time. They have great quality boards for you to pick up and take on adventures all on your own! Ask them for the best locations, spots and scenery to explore, they are uber helpful and will help you plan out your day. Not to mention, their store is just really cool with some great gear you’ll want to bring home.
Experience The Charm Of Sailing
While most know Northeast Florida for beaches, our waterways invite you to discover nature from a new viewpoint. Now and Zen Sailing Charters plan trips under wind power on their beautiful sailboat for you to experience our gorgeous waterways firsthand.
Day sails and sunset cruises navigate the quiet St. Johns from their Ortega base. Their fully equipped catamaran glides smoothly along the sparkling water, an ideal way to seek calming respite from your daily routine.
Guests enjoy views of lush marshlands and lively downtown Jacksonville from a peaceful perspective, free from noise and wake. Soak in vivid sunrises and sunsets beyond busy causeways. Spot dolphin, manatees, ospreys and herons undisturbed by motors.
One day not enough? Multiday charters let you explore further if you crave longer adventures. The itineraries include beautiful destinations like Amelia Island and Cumberland Island, traveling solely by water. They can accommodate up to 4 passengers in two cabins for overnight sailings.
Thinking outside of Jacksonville? Ask about their charter trips available in the gorgeous aqua marine waters of the Bahamas!
Safe And Smooth Sailing In Jacksonville
With exquisite waterways throughout Northeast Florida, it’s easy to see why boating in Jacksonville is so popular. Some practical practices keep the fun safe:
- Check tides, currents, and forecasts before launching. Plan your launch and retrieval times thoughtfully. Tides are swift, strong and drastic.
- Weekend mornings see peak traffic. Midweek is quieter for cruising the Intracoastal.
- Constantly watch the weather. Summer storms can brew rapidly. Be sure there is an emergency radio on your boat when renting or chartering a boat.
- Lifejackets, whistles, lights, and first aid kits are mandatory safety gear for anyone on the vessels.
- Steer clear of swimmers, divers, and anglers. Follow right-of-way rules.
- Be extremely cautious around sand bars, both for watching out for swimmer and to avoid getting your boat stuck.
- Mark obstacles and shallow areas clearly day and night to avoid hazards. Perhaps follow a more experienced boat captain out when venturing to new waters.
- Never use alcohol or impairing substances while piloting boats here or anywhere.
- Look into signing up for Sea Tow, a great resource should you ever find yourself stranded or in trouble.
With mindfulness towards conditions and fellow water-goers, the rivers of Jacksonville Florida provide endless fun and exploration opportunities.
Conclusion
We know you’re convinced and ready to experience the serene waterways of Jacksonville, Florida! Whether you’re traveling on a private charter with Sublime Rides, fishing charters, renting your own boat, or sailing along the Intracoastal- you can’t go wrong. Expert crews stunning views, and fully loaded boats promise smooth sailing and picture-perfect memories.
Plan your next voyage and immerse yourself in all that Jacksonville has to offer…by sea! We hope to hear tales of your water adventures across the waterways soon!
