Why Choose a Private Fishing Charter Over a Miami Party Boat?

When in Miami, two of the things that probably come to mind are: Parties and Fishing Opportunities! After all, who doesn’t enjoy a party or two when in Miami, especially with their fantastic beaches? And let’s not forget the amazing fishing opportunities in Miami, where you can catch species like bonefish, groupers, barracudas, bass, mackerels, and many more!

What’s great about Miami is that there are various fishing charters you can join or rent, such as party boats and private fishing charters. And based on our observations, many people have enjoyed fishing charters over party boats.

But why choose a private fishing charter over a Miami party boat? Read on to learn more about the differences between these two and what’s the better choice.

 

Why Choose a Private Fishing Charter Over a Miami Party Boat?

There are major differences between party boats and private fishing charters when choosing different boat services in Miami. We’ll define both these services to learn about their similarities and differences to gain a gist of which is better.

 

About Party Boats

When you hear the words party boat, the first thing you’ll imagine is a unique venue with loud music and dancing, kind of like parties on cruise ships. Those who have already experienced joining party boats refer to a large group of people on one boat for deep-sea fishing.

Party boats are also referred to as head boats in the deep sea fishing community, which appeal to first-timers and seasoned anglers. For starters, party boats use larger boats and cost lower compared to other fishing charters. However, party boats also have cons for deep-sea anglers, such as having more people and the limitations on the fishing options.

 

About the Boat

Usually, party boats range between 56-65 feet long, sometimes up to 90 feet long. While the build and shape of the vessels would vary, party boats would feature walk around decks that surround interior cabins. They would also have restrooms, and some have snack bars and upper-level decks.

Basically, these are larger than private charter boats to carry more groups of people for specific deep-sea excursions.

 

How Many People

Smaller party boats may have a maximum capacity of 40 people, while larger vessels would carry over 100 people. It’s best to ask about the maximum headcount before joining one.

 

Fishing Types

Party boats are known to garget bottom fishing reefs and wrecks, usually sticking around the same locations every trip. You’ll most likely target groupers, snappers, and other bottom fishing species in season.

You can join different durations, with some lasting as short as three hours while others can go up to six hours or more.

 

Cost

As mentioned, party boats cost less than private fishing charters because they have more passengers and target specific fishing excursions. Usually, it’s around $10-15 an hour for adult tickets.

About Private Charters

As the name suggests, private charters are private, giving you the most control over the boat you’d like to go out with, who will be in the charter with you, and the fishing excursion you’d like.

You would schedule private charters through the captain. You’ll be able to maintain direct contact with the crew, having the opportunity to ask questions about what to expect and recommendations on when to go deep-sea fishing based on your target species, among other factors.

 

About the Boat

Private charters would have the same boats as group charters, about 38-60 feet long. People who choose bay fishing boats would expect boats 20 feet long. Most private charters would have a back deck fishing area, so you have the choice to fish from the sides or back of the deck.

These boats are made for sports fishing, being speedy and flexible. They also come with cabins and seating, along with sleeping quarters and a restroom.

 

How Many People

The maximum number of people to join a private charter will depend on you, the captain, and the maximum capacity of your chosen charter boat. Some boats would approve only six passengers, exclusive of the crew. Some charters may be approved for more than 20 passengers.

 

Fishing Types

Private charters offer an endless list of fishing excursions you can partake in, whether trolling, bottom fishing, or sight fishing. The type of fishing you can choose and expect will depend on your personal preference, the fish in season, the specific day’s conditions, and how long you’ll hire the private charter.

You can expect trips as short as 3 hours up to overnight trips, where you can catch big ones like tuna, marlin, sailfish, and dolphins.

 

Cost

The cost of private fishing charters isn’t the most expensive once you divide it into the number of people joining. That said, it isn’t as cheap as party boats either. You will be paying for the luxury of privacy and your chosen fishing excursion, and the benefits outweigh the cost.

It can cost about $250 per person for a private fishing charter, with a maximum of 6-8 people joining. It’s best to contact your chosen fishing charter to get the exact rates with the chance of negotiating it down to your budget.

With all that in mind, we can see why private fishing charters are more sought-after compared to party boats, especially if you’re a seasoned angler! You get more privacy from private fishing charters, as well as the undivided attention of the captain and crew if you require assistance. Moreover, you receive more space to fish and won’t have to deal with crowds and strangers your way!

 

Wrapping It Up

We hope that our article answered your question, “why choose a private fishing charter over a Miami party boat?” Now that you know the answer, why not consider hiring a fishing charter for your next adventure in the area? Don’t hesitate to contact us now!