Boating in Biscayne National Park

Savoring the last hour of daylight.

NPS photo

With more than 250 square miles of sparkling waters, it’s no surprise that boating is one of the most popular activities in the park. Whether you’re enjoying the thrill of open water or relaxing in a quiet spot closer to shore, we want you to have fun and stay safe.

• Nearby marinas provide access to boaters
• Sign up to receive Miami-Dade marina alerts
• Keep boating safety in mind
• Use mooring buoys when available
• Comply with slow speed zones
• Watch water depth and avoid running aground
• Columbus Day weekend information
• Park waters are shallow, so tide predictions are important
• The Boating and Angling Guide to Biscayne Bay is an interactive map with information on resources and facilities
• Personal watercraft are prohibited, including jet skis and waverunners
• Use nautical charts for navigation (available in marine stores and online); NOAA 11451 covers park waters
• You can help protect yourself AND the resources of Biscayne National Park by using 'Reef-Safe Sun Protection'.

 

Protected corals, animals, and habitats are found throughout Southeast Florida

Tips to avoid striking protected species including sea turtles, manatees, dolphins, and smalltooth sawfish:

• Keep a sharp lookout
• Watch your speed, especially at night
• Keep your distance

Any collision or injury to such protected species should be reported immediately to:

• NOAA Fisheries
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Wildlife Alert Hotline - (888) 404-FWCC (3922) or the FWC website

Please do not anchor on coral reefs!

• To report a vessel grounding, anchoring incident, or other coral reef injury in Southeast Florida (Miami-Dade to Martin county), call the Southeast Florida Action Network (SEAFAN) 1-800-770-SEFL (7335) or use the online report form
• For more information on coral reefs and what you can do to protect them, visit the Florida Dept. of Environmental Protection website