Create an unforgettable day on the Gulf aboard a brand-new flagship Sea Ray — captained & zero stress.
Cruise the Gulf Coast on a premium captained Sea Ray.
Dolphins. Sandbars. Sunset views. Zero responsibility.
✔ Licensed Captain Included
✔Fully insured
✔Five-Star Rated
✔ Private Charter — Just Your Group
✔ Venice • Sarasota • Nokomis • Siesta Key
Availability Notice
We limit charters to protect the condition of our 2026 Sea Ray.
Peak weekends often book 2–4 weeks in advance.
If your date is open — secure it now.
This dramatically improves booking behavior.
Why this is not just another boat rental
Not all Sarasota boat charters are created equal.
Many operate older, high-hour boats.
Some advertise low rates — then add fuel charges later.
Others require you to drive.
And some run high-volume schedules that prioritize turnover over experience.
That’s not us.
This is a brand-new 2026 Sea Ray SLX 280 — one of the newest luxury day boats available for private charter in Sarasota.
Quiet. Powerful. Exceptionally smooth. Designed for comfort and style.
If most rental boats are used sedans…
The SLX 280 is the Mercedes S-Class of day boats.
Private charter.
Licensed captain included.
Limited bookings.
This isn’t about finding the cheapest boat. It’s about choosing the best experience on the water.
You’ll enjoy:
✔ Deep luxury seating
✔ Shaded cockpit + open sun lounge
✔ Premium Bluetooth sound system
✔ Private onboard restroom
✔ Cooler with ice + bottled water
✔ Full covered Bimini for shade
This is not a tired rental boat.
It’s a curated experience built for comfort, safety, and unforgettable memories.
Weekend dates often book 2-4 weeks in advance.
Client Reviews
★★★★★
“Easily the highlight of our trip.”
We were visiting Sarasota and wanted a full day on the water with the family and this exceeded expectations. The boat was immaculate, the ride was incredibly smooth, and Captain J made everything effortless.
We spotted dolphins, cruised some of the most beautiful areas along the coast, and wrapped up the day docking at Pop’s for dinner which made it feel like a true local experience!
If you’re considering a charter, this is the one to book.
—Chase Vestal
★★★★★
“Our favorite boat on the Gulf.”
The communication and service was great. The entire booking process was simple and seamless, and the boat itself was incredible.
We had the perfect day cruising around Sarasota with friends. Everything felt organized, professional, and effortless.
We’ll absolutely be booking again.
—Kathy Carbone
★★★★★
“Flawless from start to finish”
This boat is incredible - brand new, beautifully maintained, and fully loaded with everything you’d want for a perfect day on the water.
Having a knowledgeable local captain made all the difference. We discovered new spots we never would’ve found on our own, and the entire experience felt effortless. Way better than a pontoon boat we normally find.
We’ll definitely be back.
—Max Pinkston
RENTAL OPTIONS
All charters include an experienced captain and a fully appointed luxury vessel.
Perfect for a relaxed coastal outing, sandbar visit, or daytime cruise along Florida’s Gulf Coast. The half-day option (4 hours) offers plenty of time to enjoy the water without feeling rushed — ideal for small groups looking to experience the boat’s luxury features, premium seating, and smooth performance.
Whether you’re anchoring for a swim, cruising the intracoastal, or enjoying time on the water with friends and family, this option delivers flexibility and value in a refined setting.
A 6 hour, elevated experience to enjoy your boat day. Enjoy smooth evening cruising, coastal views, and a relaxed atmosphere over the gulf.
For those who want the full experience, the full-day option (8 hours) allows you to enjoy the boat at your own pace from morning to afternoon. With ample time to explore multiple destinations, anchor, swim, relax, and cruise, this is the most immersive way to experience the vessel.
Designed for longer outings, entertaining guests, or special occasions, the full-day rental maximizes comfort, space, and flexibility while showcasing everything the boat has to offer.
Meet YOUR captain jay
Captain J. McLaughlin didn’t just move to Florida — he built his life around its waters.
Originally from Virginia, he followed the Gulf Coast south, earned his U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license, and immersed himself in the boating culture of Southwest Florida.
From dolphin pods off Nokomis to the hidden sandbars near Siesta Key, Captain J knows these waters intimately — not just the routes, but the rhythms.
He’s an active member of the local boating community and regularly contributes to regional conversations about Gulf navigation, wildlife, and coastal living — including appearances on local boating radio programs.
But credentials only matter if they serve the experience.
His mission isn’t just to operate the 2026 Sea Ray SLX 280.
It’s to create a day that feels effortless, safe, and unforgettable — whether you want a relaxed cruise, a lively sandbar afternoon, or a sunset you’ll talk about for years.
Professional. Attentive. Local.
You relax. He handles the rest.
Thoughtfully Owned. Meticulously Maintained. After moving to Florida, Dave discovered his favorite way to experience the Gulf wasn’t from the shore — it was out on the water with his family. Some of their best memories have come from cruising at sunset, anchoring at sandbars, and spotting dolphins along the way.
But after renting boat after boat that felt outdated, underpowered, or poorly designed for Florida’s heat, he decided to create something better. This vessel was intentionally selected for comfort, shade, performance, and space — powerful enough for open Gulf waters, yet refined and comfortable for relaxing and entertaining.
The goal was simple: remove the compromises so the experience could shine. We love this boat — and we hope you do too. Welcome to your Best Boat Day Ever.
Meet the owners
Where we’ll take you
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Sandbars
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Waterfront Dining
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Scenic Cruising
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Wildlife
Convenient Pick-Up Locations
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Contact our team to see the available pick up locations nearby.
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Contact our team to see the available pick up locations nearby.
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Contact our team to see the available pick up locations nearby.
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Contact our team to see the available pick up locations nearby.
Check availability
Select your preferred date using the calendar below to request availability. Charter schedules are subject to weather and safety conditions to ensure the best possible on-water experience. If your desired date is unavailable or not currently shown, please contact us directly and we’ll be happy to assist with alternate dates, custom requests, or additional availability.
FAQs
1. Is a captain included with the charter?
Yes. Every charter includes a licensed, experienced captain, so you can relax and enjoy the day while we handle navigation, safety, and the best local routes.
2. Where does the trip depart from?
Trips typically depart from the Venice / Sarasota area, providing easy access to Siesta Key, Venice, Longboat Key, Boca Grande, and nearby sandbars. Exact departure instructions are provided after booking, and special pickup locations can be coordinated for a modest surcharge.
3. What should we bring?
We recommend bringing:
• Swimsuits
• Towels
• Sunscreen (no spray sunscreen)
• Drinks and snacks (BYOB welcome)
• Phone or camera for dolphin sightings and sunset photos
A cooler on the boat is available, and ice or beer can be ordered in advance.
4. Does the boat have a restroom?
Yes. The Sea Ray SLX 280 includes a private onboard restroom, which adds extra comfort for longer charters and family outings.
5. Is fuel included?
No. Fuel is not included in the charter rate and will be charged based on usage at the end of your trip.
6. How many guests can join?
The 2026 Sea Ray SLX 280 comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests plus the captain, making it perfect for families, couples, and small groups looking for a private experience on the water.
7. What types of trips can we do?
Your charter can be customized depending on what you’d like to experience. Popular options include:
• Sandbar relaxation
• Dolphin spotting
• Coastal cruising
• Waterfront dining & bar-hopping stops
• Sunset cruises
Captain J has over two decades of experience on the water and can recommend great itineraries to make your trip unforgettable.
8. What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety always comes first. If weather conditions are unsafe, we will work with you to reschedule your charter for another available date. The Sea Ray also features a power top that can be lowered to provide shade and protection from light weather conditions.
Cancellation policy
- Free cancellations until 5 days before the booking start time.
- 50% refund for cancellations between 3-5 days before the booking start
time.
- Cancellations within 2 days of the booking start time are non-refundable.
Security deposit
A security deposit hold (not a charge) will be placed on your credit card 48 hours before your booking starts to cover any incidental damage that may occur during
your rental. This hold is released 48 hours after the booking is complete, if no claims are made. The security deposit amount for the boat you are booking will be outlined during the check-out process.
Contact Us
Interested in a private charter, custom itinerary, or have questions about availability?
We’re happy to assist with tailored experiences, special requests, and general inquiries.