Fort Lauderdale: Mini Powerboat Rental & Canal Tour

Summary

Mini powerboat ride through Fort Lauderdale’s canals with yacht views

You’ll captain your own mini powerboat along Fort Lauderdale’s famous canals, weaving past mega-yachts and sunlit mansions with no boating experience required. Local staff show you the ropes before you set off—just bring your sense of humor (and maybe sunscreen). It’s an easygoing day trip that leaves you feeling part of the city’s river life long after you dock.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re sure you’ve got this?” That’s what the guy at Las Olas Paddle Boards asked me, grinning as he handed over the keys. Honestly, I wasn’t sure — but he walked us through everything, even how to steer without looking like a total rookie. The air smelled faintly briny, with sunscreen somewhere in the mix. I could hear seagulls arguing overhead while we clambered into our little boat (which looked smaller than I’d pictured online, but somehow more fun for it). No boating experience? Yeah, that was us.

The first few minutes were all giggles and awkward turns. My friend kept pointing out these absurdly huge yachts — one had a helicopter on top, which just felt like showing off. We drifted under low bridges where locals waved from their backyards, drinks in hand. There’s this moment when you realize Fort Lauderdale really is “Venice of America,” except instead of gondolas it’s speedboats and floating tiki bars. Our guide back at the dock had suggested a route past some old-school mansions; we tried to follow it but got distracted by a pelican dive-bombing for fish. Gas was included so we didn’t stress about getting lost or going slow.

I still think about the feel of the sun on my arms and that weird mix of engine rumble and water slapping against fiberglass. At one point I tried to say “thank you” in Spanish to a guy helping his kid fish from their dock — probably butchered it, but he just laughed and waved us on. It felt like everyone was in on some inside joke about living here. We didn’t have to worry about licenses since we checked that online first (the whole thing took maybe 20 minutes), and honestly it was easier than renting a car.

By the time we looped back toward Las Olas, hair tangled from salt air and cheeks flushed, I realized I hadn’t looked at my phone once since leaving shore. Not every day trip in Fort Lauderdale lets you captain your own mini powerboat — or laugh that hard when you accidentally honk at a passing yacht. So yeah, would do again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mini powerboat rental and tour

• Receive boating safety instructions
• Captain your own mini-powerboat
• Explore Fort Lauderdale waterways

Top questions

Do I need boating experience for this Fort Lauderdale mini powerboat rental?

No boating experience is needed; staff will teach you everything before you go.

How many people fit in each mini powerboat?

Each boat fits up to 2 people with a combined weight limit of 325 lbs.

Is gas included in the price?

Yes, gas is included with your mini powerboat rental.

Where does the tour start?

The rental starts at Las Olas Paddle Boards in Fort Lauderdale.

What if I was born after 1987—do I need a license?

If born after 1987, you'll need to complete a temporary boater's license online before arrival; details are provided after booking.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the boats.

Is this suitable for kids?

Drivers must be 18+, but passengers can be any age as long as total weight doesn’t exceed 325 lbs per boat.

Can people with health issues join?

This isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes full use of a mini powerboat for up to two people (with gas covered), plus friendly instruction from local staff before heading out onto Fort Lauderdale’s canals. Just check your license requirements if needed and enjoy cruising at your own pace before returning to Las Olas Paddle Boards when you're done.