Paddleboards & Kayaks for Miami Yacht Charters

How the toys are used

The yacht anchors first, then the crew launches the boards or kayaks from the swim platform and hands out life jackets. Paddlers stay within sight of the boat, inside the area the captain points out, and come back when called. Before the yacht moves, everything is recovered and stowed, so allow a few minutes at each stop. The rest of the list is on Miami water sports.

Which yachts carry them

Paddleboards and kayaks are carried on some yachts and not others; each listing says what is aboard, and the team confirms it with the boat when you book. Every charter has a floating water mat, which suits children and anyone who just wants to float. Find the boat on every yacht rental in Miami.

Where to paddle

The shallow sandbars, Haulover north of Miami Beach and Nixon off Key Biscayne, are the classic stops: clear, waist-deep water on a calm day and space around the boat. Quieter coves and the lee of the islands work when the wind picks up. Mornings are usually calmer than afternoons, and a falling tide makes the sandbar shallower.

Paddleboard or kayak?

• Paddleboard: a workout and a view of the bottom; beginners start on their knees.
• Kayak: steadier for first-timers, children with an adult, and anyone carrying a phone for photos.

Safety

Life jackets for every paddler, a leash on boards, sunscreen and water. Paddlers stay clear of channels and boat traffic, and the captain can call everyone back if the wind or the current changes. For snorkeling at the same stop, see snorkeling from a yacht.