Does Boat Club Membership Include a Captain?

You don’t need to know how to drive a boat to be a boat club member, but if you do, we have many options for you to enjoy!

As a South Florida boat club, Gulfstream Boat Club offers access to both the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean. Navigating the waters of the Intracoastal requires being aware of its zones, inlets, depths, sandbars, and shoals (see our handy custom nautical chart). Cruising or fishing in the Atlantic near Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, or Hypoluxo also requires quite a bit of boating experience.

So, as a GBC member, do you have to know how to drive a boat?

Do you want to take out your own boat? Gulfstream Boat Club members can take out any of our boats ranging from 21 to 32 feet on their own. We offer 20-plus top-of-the-line deck boats, pontoon boats, and center-console and dual console boats; it’s the newest fleet in South Florida! Our 35′ Contenders and 40′ Intrepid require a captain.

Can I learn to drive a boat?

Absolutely! All new Gulfstream Boat Club memberships come with a complimentary one-hour orientation with one of our captains. All of our captains are U.S. Coast Guard certified. If you would like more instruction on how to drive a boat, we can also organize further lessons.

GBC captains are all US Coast Guard certified.

Why are GBC’s captains the best in South Florida?

All of our captains are U.S. Coast Guard certified, and very familiar with the waters in and around Palm Beach County. If a fishing excursion, a trip to Peanut Island, or a family cruise down the Intracoastal is in your plans, our captains will design the perfect outing for you.

What if I just want to sit back and relax on my GBC boat rental?

No problem! Most members do. Simply reserve a boat by calling us at 561.865.7797 and we’ll pair you with not only the perfect boat, but the perfect captain.

Boating is our passion; make it yours. Gulfstream Boat Club offers the best and newest fleet of boats in South Florida, and our experienced captains will ensure that you enjoy a great day on the water. Give us a call seven days a week at 561.865.7797 and we’ll get you started!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas in 2019

Gulfstream Boat Club has got great Father’s Day gift ideas!

Sunday, June 16, is Father’s Day, and out on the waters of South Florida is the best place to enjoy it. Gulfstream Boat Club has a variety of Father’s Day gift ideas for you. Make Father’s Day 2019 your best one ever.

It’s not too late to plan a memorable Father’s Day! Did you know that our boat club can plan special events? Let GBC help you design an unforgettable day that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you are planning a sunset cruise, ocean fishing, or a group outing on the Intracoastal, GBC can make it incredibly simple and easy.

Father’s Day Gift Ideas in 2019: Family with kids on a boat in South Florida — GBC owner Alex Warner and his family, ready for Father’s Day!

Here are four great Father’s Day gift ideas from GBC:

1. Boat Club Membership.

Father’s Day brings new members to Gulfstream Boat Club every year. We have a variety of memberships to suit every need and budget. Why own a boat when GBC gives you access to an entire fleet? Here are more details on our many levels of membership. It’s so much better than owning a boat. We’ve got the newest fleet around, and new boats are being added regularly. Definetely one of the best Father’s Day gift ideas we can recommend.

2. Brunch at a Dockside Restaurant.

We can organize a cruise to a dockside restaurant for Father’s Day brunch. Many of the restaurants along the Intracoastal have special menus or events planned that day. Deck 84 and Key Lime House are just two. And arriving by boat makes it an extra special day.

3. GBC Gift Certificate.

A gift certificate is a welcome and easy Father’s Day gift. Cover a captain, fuel, a half-day rental, or more; gift certificates can be provided in any amount. We can wrap the gift certificate, or send it anywhere for you. Call us at 561.865.7797 for details!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas in 2019: Boat on shallow water of South Florida. — A cruise to Peanut Island is a great Father’s Day excursion.

4. GBC Fishing Charter or Boat Cruise.

Do you want more Father’s Day gift ideas? Catch your own Father’s Day dinner! Check out our blog post on our favorite spring catch recipes for fish that are biting right here, right now. One of our licensed captains can plan a memorable excursion for you, Dad, and family and friends. Book early, as this weekend fills up quickly.

Any questions about Father’s Day 2019 gifts or Gulfstream Boat Club membership? We’re open seven days a week; call us at 561.865.7797 anytime. And Happy Father’s Day from GBC!

What Powerboat Rental are you?

As a South Florida boat club, with easy access to both the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean, Gulfstream Boat Club is all about the powerboats and it’s the place to go for your perfect powerboat rental match-up. And why own a boat, when you can have your pick of several boats, seven days a week?

GBC has the fastest-growing fleet of cruising and fishing boats in South Florida. Our boat club has a reputation for excellent service and safety that is second to none. Whether you are planning a sunset cruise, ocean fishing, or a family outing on the Intracoastal, GBC makes it simple and easy providing the perfect powerboat rental for your trip.

Here’s a little introduction to powerboats taken from Wikipedia. In essence, all powerboats have a bow (front) and a stern (back). All have hulls (the bottom of the boat) and all have a topsides (everything from the hull up). There are many types of powerboat rentals, but GBC has four types in its fleet:

Center Console Boat

Center console boats range from 13 to 45 feet. The name says it all: the helm is on a console in the center of the boat. As a South Florida boat club, of course fishing is a priority for our members, and the open hull of a center console boat allows fishermen to walk from bow to stern without having to navigate around the console. The larger-size center console boats are suited for offshore fishing.

GBC’s center console boats range from 22 to 35 feet, and feature T-top for shade and comfortable seating. They’re a very popular and versatile choice!

Deck Boat

Deck boats have a wide beam and feature a V-shaped hull, which offers more performance than a pontoon boat. South Florida boat clubs need a good selection of party boats, and deck boats feature an open deck with plenty of seating for family and friends. You can swim off the side of a deck boat and easily get back on. They are outboard or stern drive powered and can be aluminum or fiberglass. These boat are about 25–35 feet long.

GBC’s deck boats range from 21 to 27 feet, and feature stereos, depth finder and electronics. They offer Bimini tops with ample shade, and a great seating layout for comfort cruising. Perfect for a leisurely family cruise!

Dual Console Boat

Dual console boats have two dashboards and windshields that are separated by a walk-through which allows access to a forward cockpit or seating area. Lengths can run from 16 to 30 feet.

GBC’s dual console boats are 25 feet, and feature a large custom top for shade with rod holders, Bluetooth stereo, GPS/fish finder combo, and a great seating layout for comfort cruising.

Pontoon Boat

GBC’s pontoon boats are the newest in our fleet, and these “party platforms” are perfect for a South Florida boat club cruise. Pontoon boats have two or three aluminum tubes that support a broad platform. They have shallow drafts and are very stable. Lengths can range from 15–30 feet.

GBC’s two pontoon boats are 24 feet, and can host up to 12 comfortably. No captain necessary. Now in huge demand for Lake Boca Weekend plans, take out the family and friends on one of these mobile party venues!

Your South Florida boat club adventure awaits. GBC’s got the best selection of powerboats around, and they’re expertly maintained and available seven days a week. Our captains know these waters better than anyone. Labor Day is this weekend. Give us a call at 561.865.7797 to plan a holiday cruise or fishing trip today!

GBC’s Custom Intracoastal Waterway Map

Where to get an intracoastal waterway map?

We’re the best boat club in South Florida, so we need to provide the best map, right?

When clients arrive for their boat rentals at our Delray Beach, Palm Beach, and Boynton Beach locations, they receive a GBC-customized map. A GBC staff member or captain will guide you through it, especially if it is the first time you are renting one of our twenty-plus boats. (Deck boat, pontoon, or single- or dual-console: what’s your favorite? Check them all out here!)

South Florida's intracoastal waterway map — Here’s a sneak peek of GBC’s new custom-designed nautical chart.

For the first time in five years, we’ve redesigned our Gulfstream Boat Club intracoastal waterway map or nautical chart, and we can’t wait to provide it with each boat rental.

What is the difference between a map and a nautical chart?

According to NOAA, a nautical chart provides detailed information on water depths, shoreline, tide predictions, obstructions such as rocks and shipwrecks, and navigational aids. The term “map,” on the other hand, is much broader: road maps, atlases, city plans, etc.

A nautical chart is used by mariners to plot courses through open bodies of water as well as in highly trafficked areas. It provides detailed information on hidden dangers to navigation. Indeed, the Intracoastal Waterway in South Florida is such a great place to boat, but there can be a lot of traffic on the water, and there are lots of sandbars, shoals, and inlets to be mindful of.

What can you learn from using our intracoastal waterway map?

Most boat rentals originate from our Delray Beach location at Marina Delray. From there you can head north as far as Palm Beach. Peanut Island is a popular destination, and Sailfish Marina is a great place to have a dockside lunch before you head back south. (And you’ll pass our Hypoluxo location on the way north!). It’s all in the intracoastal waterway map we’ll provide.

If you use your boat rental to head south from Delray Beach, you’ll be headed towards Boca Raton. Either stop at one of Delray’s waterfront restaurants like Deck 84, or motor to Lake Boca, with great views and a dockside lunch at the Waterstone Hotel.

Consult our intracoastal waterway map to remain aware of no-wake zones. You don’t want to return from your boat rental with a ticket. And remember to stay to the east of green markers, and to the west of red markers. This is the most popular mistake of boaters new to this busy stretch of the Intracoastal.

Thanks to Dee Cutrona of Maude Press for redesigning our nautical chart! Time to schedule your next South Florida boat rental—you’ll get a free chart when you do!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas at GBC

father's day gift ideas: A Boat Membership — How about a GBC T-shirt or hat for a can’t-miss Father’s Day gift?

My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: he believed in me.
—Jim Valvano

Gulfstream Boat Club has a variety of Father’s Day gift ideas for you.

On Sunday, June 17, we celebrate fathers at Gulfstream Boat Club.

Out on the waters of South Florida is the perfect place to enjoy a memorable Father’s Day. Gulfstream Boat Club has a variety of Father’s Day gift ideas for you. Father’s Day 2018 is fast approaching on Sunday, June 17.

Have you planned something yet for Father’s Day? We are not only a boat club, but we love to organize special events! Let GBC help you design an unforgettable day that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you are planning a sunset cruise, ocean fishing, or a group outing on the Intracoastal, GBC can make it incredibly simple and easy.

Here are five great Mother’s Day gift ideas from GBC for the most important boat lover in your life:

#1: Boat Club Membership.

Does your husband, father, or son love fishing? Father’s Day brings new members to Gulfstream Boat Club every year. We have a variety of memberships to suit every need and budget. Why own a boat when GBC gives you access to an entire fleet? Here are more details on our many levels of membership. It’s so much better than owning a boat. Definetely one of the best father’s day gift ideas we can recommend.

Father's Day Gift options for boat lovers — Who’s up for a dockside brunch at Two Georges in Boynton Beach for Father’s Day?

#2 Brunch at a Dockside Restaurant.

We can organize a cruise to a dockside restaurant for Mother’s Day brunch. Many of the restaurants along the Intracoastal, like Deck 84 in Delray Beach, Two Georges in Boynton Beach, and Seasons 52 in Palm Beach Gardens have special menus or events planned that day, and arriving by boat is the best.

#3 GBC Gift Certificate.

A gift certificate in any denomination will put a smile on Dad’s face. Cover a captain, fuel, a half-day rental, or more. We can wrap the gift certificate, or send it anywhere for you. Call us at 561.865.7797 for details!

#4 GBC Fishing Charter or Boat Cruise.

Do you want more father’s day gift ideas? Catch your own Father’s Day dinner! Our latest blog post shared our favorite spring catch recipes for fish that are biting right here, right now. One of our licensed captains can plan a memorable excursion for you, Dad, and family and friends. Book early, as this weekend fills up quickly.

#5 GBC T-Shirts and Hats.

Does your dad have a GBC T-shirt or hat? We have popular, super-durable hats and long- and short-sleeved Ts in two colors available, and they sell out fast! Call 561.865.7797 to reserve yours now.

Any questions about Father’s Day gifts or Gulfstream Boat Club membership? We’re open seven days a week; call us at 561.865.7797 anytime. And Happy Father’s Day from GBC!

Unique Mother’s Day gift ideas: GBC Style

Gulfstream Boat Club has a variety of Mother’s Day gift ideas for you.

Flowers last a week. Memories last a lifetime.

South Florida fathers, you can relax! Gulfstream Boat Club has a variety of Mother’s Day gift ideas for you. Mother’s Day 2018 is fast approaching on Sunday, May 13.

Have you planned something memorable for Mother’s Day? We are not only a boat club, but we’re pretty good event planners as well! Let GBC help you plan a memorable day that the whole family will enjoy. GBC has the fastest-growing fleet of cruising and fishing boats in South Florida. Our reputation for excellent service and safety is second to none. Whether you are planning a sunset cruise, ocean fishing, or a family outing on the Intracoastal, GBC makes it incredibly simple and easy.

Here are five great Mother’s Day gift ideas from GBC for the most important boat lover in your life:

• Boat Club Membership:

Does your wife love fishing? But is she sick of owning a boat, with all of the hassles that boat ownership brings? Mother’s Day brings new members to GBC every year. We have a variety of memberships to suit every need and budget. Why own a boat when GBC gives you access to an entire fleet?

• Brunch at a Dockside Restaurant:

• GBC Gift Certificate:

A gift certificate in any denomination will put a smile on Mom’s face: Cover a captain, fuel, a half-day rental, or more.

Why own a boat? A GBC membership makes a great gift for that special fisherwoman in your life!

• GBC Fishing Charter or Boat Cruise:

Catch your own Mother’s Day dinner! One of our licensed captains can plan a memorable excursion for you, Mom, and family and friends. We can also organize a cruise to Peanut Island or the Boca Inlet. Snap some photos of the day that you’ll keep for a lifetime. Book early, as this weekend fills up quickly.

• GBC Merchandise:

Hats and long- and short-sleeved Ts in two colors are available, and they sell out fast! Call 561.865.7797 to reserve yours now.

And here’s one bonus brilliant idea for you:

One of our members sends out her family on a GBC cruise on Mother’s Day—without her! For a mom, silence is golden, and so is a little “me” time. So book a boat trip for you and the kids, and book a massage for your wife. It’s a win-win!

Any questions about Mother’s Day gifts or Gulfstream Boat Club membership? We’re open seven days a week; call us at 561.865.7797 anytime. And Happy Mother’s Day from GBC!

Intrepid Boats available at GBC

Where to rent Intrepid Boats?

Gulfstream Boat Club prides itself on having the finest fleet of boats available in South Florida, and that’s why we partner with Intrepid Boats so often. Intrepid Boats makes its boats one at a time and to the discerning specifications of its customers. Their boats feature advanced composite construction, which makes them stronger and stiffer, faster and more fuel-efficient, and able to deliver the safest, smoothest, driest ride on the water.

GBC’s 32′ Intrepid is great for fishing or cruising.

With Intrepid Boats’ incomparable fishboat heritage, no fish is safe. Their sports fishing yachts not only are equipped with plenty of innovation and technology, but their unique hull design offers a smooth ride and extraordinary stability to propel you to the fish fast and comfortably. The outboard engines deliver better range for longer offshore fishing trips, with less noise, fumes and vibrations, especially while trolling around the waters of Palm Beach County.

Are Intrepid Boats Safe?

You think Gulfstream Boat Club is a tough customer? Intrepid Boats builds boats for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, sheriff departments, police departments and departments of natural resources across the country. If their boats are safe, fast, and precise enough for them, they’re good enough for our boat club members!

Why are Intrepid Boats so popular?

Thanks to Intrepid Boats’ distinct stepped hull design, the CG (center of gravity) is positioned perfectly, producing an extraordinarily well-balanced ride. The boat takes off level and actually feels like you’re levitating onto plane. Waves are flattened, at any angle, with very little jolt transmitted. This makes for a smooth, dry ride, no lag and a noise factor that is really not a factor at all. The ride is quiet, allowing for normal conversation with an extra measure of comfort and pleasure for all aboard, which makes their boats perfect for outings with family and friends.

Intrepid Boats offer the smoothest ride possible.

What are some popular Intrepid Boats Sizes?

Currently Gulfstream Boat Club features two 32-foot and one 40-foot Intrepid for the exclusive use of members and renters. Here are the unique features of each:

32′ Intrepid Center Console with Cabin

Twin 250HP Yamaha engines
Rigged for fishing or cruising
Great seating layout and cabin with porto-potty
T-top with shade
Electronics, Stereo, I-pod input, depth finder
Dive door, live well

40-Intrepid

Triple Mercury Verado 300 engines
Incredible boat perfect for luxury cruising, overnight trips, or serious offshore fishing
Large cabin with a/c, flat screen tv, kitchenette, queen bed and more
Great seating layout, bow cushion, rear bench
This is the ultimate boat in the 40-foot class

Why own a boat? Gulfstream Boat Club not only features the best boats on the water—but we dock, maintain, and outfit them for you, seven days a week! Our customers are happy and satisfied knowing they have their choice of the finest custom crafted boats made by brands like Intrepid, with none of the headaches of boat ownership.

Want to try out an Intrepid Boat for yourself? Give us a call at 561.865.7797 to plan your next boating adventure!

Florida Boat Rentals: Why to Choose GBC?

Looking for a Florida Boat Rentals place? — GBC is South Florida’s top choice for boat rentals!

Florida Boat Rentals: GBC gives you all the answers

You’re in Palm Beach County and eyeing the serene Intracoastal, and considering a boat rental. You’re just one phone call away from a fun fishing charter, sunset cruise, or family adventure. Gulfstream Boat Club offers more than 20 high-end boats, as well as complimentary fishing and snorkel gear. But why is GBC the best florida boat rentals choice for you?

A simple internet search will pull up several “boat rentals” in South Florida. But here’s why GBC is the top boat club in the area. Besides our fleet of expertly maintained boats, multiple locations, and highly trained staff, here are a few other considerations that make us so popular:

Are there any Rental Boat Licenses and Regulations?

All of GBC’s captains are not only fully licensed, but know South Florida’s Intracoastal waters and Atlantic Ocean better than anyone. Each state has different age and license requirements for boaters. Boat rental operators and charter captains are required to have a valid boat license, which is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). This license allows operators to carry anywhere from 4 to more than 11 customers on board a boat, depending on which charter boat license they carry.

Unless you have gotten prior approval, on a special occasion such as July 4 or the Holiday Boat Parade, GBC’s boats must be returned by 6PM for your safety and that of your passengers. Pets are allowed, but we recommend adequate safety precautions for their comfort.

GBC captains are fully licensed and know where the fish are hiding!

What’s in the Boat Rental Contract?

GBC’s contract spells out every agreement, rule and eventuality of a boat rental: Condition, Damage, Rental Term, Fines/Permits, Deposits, Use of Boat, and more. Normal wear and tear is expected, but if you come back with a damaged propeller or a ripped captain seat, you’re likely going to have to pay for the damage. If you would like a copy of our boat rental contract sent to you in advance, please give us a call at 561.865.7797.

Experience the Intracoastal on a cruise to Lake Boca with friends!

Is Safety Equipment Provided with every Rental?

GBC has all safety equipment on board, and can provide life jackets of various sizes for your all your florida boat rentals. Your captain will give you an orientation and safety lesson, so you will know exactly where it’s all stored and how to operate it. He’ll also provide you with detailed maps of the waters.

Can I rent a boat via Phone?

Now that you understand why Gulfstream Boat Club is the premier club for South Florida Boat Rentals, give us a call to become a member or try a boat rental for yourself. We take care of all the details so you can experience the fun of boating. Boating is our passion; make it yours. Call us at 561.865.7797 today!

Boat Club FAQs

What is a Boat Club and how does it work? — Whether you’re interested in cruising or fishing or both, this boat club’s for you.

The Boat Club Concept Explained.

The boat club concept is simple and also brilliant. Why own a boat? South Florida’s recent hurricanes gave boat owners even more reasons to sell their motorboats and join Gulfstream Boat Club. No more worries about docking your boat in a storm, expensive repairs, or unused dock rentals. GBC takes care of everything. You just book the boat of your choice and enjoy!

If you are interested in becoming a member of a South Florida boat club, look no further. Based in Delray Beach, Gulfstream Boat Club has the fastest-growing fleet of cruising and fishing boats in the Palm Beach County area and beyond. Our boat family prides itself on excellent service and safety. Whether you are planning a sunset cruise, ocean fishing, or a family waterskiing trip on the Intracoastal, GBC makes it simple and easy.

Any questions about the club, besides “Where do I sign”?

Where are you located?

Gulfstream Boat Club’s main location is on the Intracoastal at Marina Delray in Delray Beach. We also feature two other locations in Boynton Beach: near the popular Two Georges Restaurant, and at Palm Beach Yacht Club. These locations make it easy for our members to travel by boat south to Boca Raton, or as far north as Jupiter, depending on their plans.

What kind of boats do you have?

Our boat club has more than 20 premier cruising and fishing boats, and we’re always adding to the fleet. We have center console, dual console, and deck boats available in several sizes, from such manufacturers as SouthWind, Intrepid, Key West, and Contender. Our boats feature high-power engines, ample shade, stereos, and comfortable seating. For specific information on our fleet, click here.

What services does Gulfstream Boat Club offer?

We are South Florida’s most respected boat club. We have several licensed captains for charters; dream up an excursion and we can make it happen! Some of our most popular services are sunset cruises, fishing charters (fully rigged with gear), wakeboarding and waterskiing lessons, and providing bait and ice and/or catered meals.

Are the boats safe?

Safety is our first priority at Gulfstream Boat Club. Each new member receives a lesson in boat operation and safety. We maintain our boats and equipment to the highest standard. Boating Life jackets are on board in a variety of sizes. Maps and charts are also provided.

What sort of club memberships do you offer?

Gulfstream Boat Club offers a variety of flexible memberships to suit your needs. Purchase an hourly membership in increments of 20, 35, or 50 hours. Annual memberships offer the best value; and we have a six-month membership as well. Every membership includes access to fishing gear, wakeboards, waterskis, and snorkel gear, as well as other perks. See membership details here.

And now, back to our most Frequently Asked Question:

I want to be part of the Boat Club Family, where do I sign?

We thought you’d never ask! Gulfstream Boat Club is open seven days a week. Stop by our Delray Beach location, or give us a call at 561.865.7797 to learn more.

You haven’t experienced the best of South Florida until you’ve been out cruising or fishing on a boat. The best way to get there is to become a Gulfstream Boat Club member. Boating is our passion; make it yours! Contact us at 561.865.7797 today.

Gulfstream Boat Club Gift Guide

GBC gift certificate — Are you into Boating Gifts?

GBC’s Boating Gifts Guide

Be one of the many who are purchasing Gulfstream Boat Club gift certificates for family and friends this holiday season. The wife who purchased an annual membership for the husband who has everything. The son who bought his mother a cruise that she can use to entertain visiting grandkids. The local businessman who got a corporate boat club membership for his partner—and himself!

We’re quite sure GBC gift certificates will be a versatile, affordable, and welcome option for several people on your holiday list. GBC gift certificates are available in any denomination, and can be purchased in our office seven days a week. Or give us a call at 561.865.7797, and we at the boat club will mail, email, or even hand deliver (within reason, please!) your gift certificate for you from our main office in Delray Beach.

Purchase any membership and receive a free GBC T-shirt or hat (a $25 value)! For a full list of our Gulfstream Boat Club membership options, view them here.

For ideas on giving a GBC boat cruise, fishing excursion, or other on-the-water experience as a gift, view the GBC Excursion Guide here. We can plan fishing trips, tubing adventures, cruises up to Peanut Island or down to Boca Raton, brunch at a dockside restaurant, a sunset cruise, even your next business or family event. We have center console, dual console, and deck boats available.

Boating is our passion; make it yours. Or if you’re already one of us, share that passion with a family member or friend! We have the fastest-growing fleet of cruising and fishing boats in South Florida, and our reputation for excellent service and safety is second to none. Gulfstream Boat Club gift certificates are one holiday gift that won’t gather dust in the closet. Call us at 561.865.7797 to purchase one today.

Gulfstream Boat Club Blog