RENTAL TERMS

Reservation

To reserve a boat with Palm Coast Fishing and Boat Rental, you can choose between two rental time slots: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., available 7 days a week. You can either call us at 386-569-9674 or visit Hammock Bait & Tackle to make your reservation in person. A $100 deposit is required to secure your spot. If anyone in your group plans to captain the boat and was born after January 1, 1988, they must complete a safety boating course online. For rescheduling, please call us at least 2 hours before your reservation time.

On the day of your rental, please arrive at Hammock Bait & Tackle 30 minutes before your reservation time to sign the rental agreements. Once the paperwork is complete and payment is made, you can simply cross the street where your boat will be waiting at the Bing's Landing Park ramp. For safety, any child 6 years old or younger is required to wear a life vest at all times. If you don't have one, let us know in advance, and we will provide one for you.

After Boarding

After you board the boat, we’ll go over all the safety devices, including life vests, the fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and throwable device. We’ll also walk you through the boat’s features, how to operate it, navigate, and use the depth finder. Before departure, we’ll complete a safety checklist and have you sign another set of paperwork. We are also required to review rental insurance with you, and you will need to initial this section, regardless of whether you accept or decline the insurance.

Navegation Seafty Tips

Navigating the Matanzas River in a pontoon boat is both relaxing and enjoyable, but it's essential to follow a few key steps for a smooth journey.

1. **Safety First:** Before setting off, make sure all safety equipment is onboard, including life vests, a first aid kit, and a fire extinguisher. Check the boat’s depth finder and familiarize yourself with its operation.

2. **Slow and Steady:** When you leave the dock, start slow. The Matanzas River has varying depths, and there are sandbars and oyster beds, so keep an eye on your depth finder to avoid shallow areas.

3. **Follow Navigation Aids:** Pay close attention to markers and buoys. The green markers should stay on your left (port) side, and the red markers should remain on your right (starboard) when heading upstream. When heading towards the ocean, the reverse is true.

4. **Watch the Current and Tides:** The river's currents can be strong, especially during tide changes. Navigate with the current where possible, and when docking, approach against the current for better control.

5. **Respect No-Wake Zones:** Many areas along the Matanzas River are designated no-wake zones, especially near docks and wildlife areas. Slow down to avoid disturbing others and protect local marine life. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll enjoy a peaceful and safe trip along the scenic Matanzas River.