Best Watersports Company in Florida: Why Salty's Water Sports Leads the Treasure Coast
Florida is the undisputed capital of recreational boating in the United States, with over 922,000 registered recreational boats as of 2023. With the global water sports market valued at over $42.5 billion in 2025 and growing, finding the right watersports company matters more than ever. On Florida's Treasure Coast, one family-owned company has risen above the rest: Salty's Water Sports. With six locations, brand-new equipment, and the distinction of being the only official Sea-Doo partner on the East Coast, Salty's delivers an experience that is hard to match.
What Makes Salty's Water Sports Stand Out
Salty's Water Sports is a family-owned and operated watersports rental and tour company headquartered in Fort Pierce, Florida. What separates Salty's from dozens of competitors is a combination of brand-new equipment, competitive pricing, and an official partnership with Sea-Doo that only three other businesses in the entire United States share.
The company operates brand-new Sea-Doo GTIse/GTX 130 jet skis reaching speeds of up to 60 mph, along with pontoon boats, center consoles, kayaks, and paddleboards. This commitment to new equipment means fewer breakdowns and a safer, more enjoyable ride for every guest.
Family-Owned Heritage
Founded by the Wright family, Salty's grew from a backyard operation into the largest boat and jet ski rental company on the Treasure Coast within just five years. As a family-operated small business, every interaction is personal, and safety remains the top priority.
National Media Recognition
Salty's has been featured on Fox News, NBC, CBS, and USA Today. That kind of national media attention is rare for a regional watersports company and speaks to the quality of the experience they deliver.
Six Locations Across Florida's Treasure Coast
A watersports provider is only as good as its access points. Salty's operates from six strategic locations, giving visitors and locals flexibility no matter where they are staying along the coast.
- Fort Pierce - 601 Seaway Dr, the flagship location on the Indian River Lagoon
- Jensen Beach - 125 Fishermans Wharf
- Sebastian - 806 Indian River Dr
- Stuart - known as the Sailfish Capital of the World
- Vero Beach - serene waters perfect for sunset cruises
- Port St. Lucie - at the Sandpiper Wyndham Resort
The Indian River Lagoon is a 156-mile estuary known as the "Dolphin Nursery of the Atlantic Ocean." Its crystal-clear, protected waters are ideal for spotting dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and exotic birds.
Rentals, Tours, and Activities for Every Adventurer
A watersports company is a business that rents watercraft and offers guided aquatic experiences to the public. Salty's covers the full spectrum, from adrenaline-pumping jet ski rentals to relaxing sunset cruises.
Guided Tours
The dolphin jet ski tour is a one-hour guided ride through dolphin hotspots starting at $159. Dolphin cruises and sunset cruises accommodate up to six passengers on pontoon boats starting at $295. Guests regularly report seeing pods of 30 to 40 dolphins during winter months.
Self-Guided Rentals
Jet ski rentals start at just $70 for single or double riders. Boat rentals accommodate up to six passengers starting at $275. Kayaks and paddleboards start at $15 for up to eight hours, making them the most budget-friendly option.
Pricing Comparison: Salty's vs. Industry Averages
A rental rate is the hourly or daily fee charged for the use of watercraft equipment. Below is how Salty's stacks up against typical Florida watersports pricing.
| Activity | Salty's Starting Price | Florida Average | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jet Ski Rental (1 hr) | $70 | $85 - $120 | Brand-new Sea-Doo fleet |
| Pontoon Boat Rental | $275 | $300 - $450 | Multiple boat sizes available |
| Dolphin Jet Ski Tour | $159 | $175 - $250 | Guided through Dolphin Nursery |
| Sunset Cruise (2 hrs) | $295 | $300 - $400 | Private group, up to 6 guests |
| Kayak / SUP (up to 8 hrs) | $15 | $25 - $45 | Full-day access included |
Salty's consistently offers some of the lowest prices on the Treasure Coast while providing newer equipment than most competitors. They also offer multi-day rental discounts and on-site boating certification for $10, completed in just 15 minutes.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
Salty's Water Sports maintains a 4.7-star rating on Google with over 1,200 reviews and a 4.8-star rating on TripAdvisor, where it ranks as a top attraction in Fort Pierce. On Facebook, 94% of reviewers recommend the business across 250+ reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff, the condition of the equipment, and the beauty of the riding areas. The company earned the #2 ranking for outdoor activities in Port Saint Lucie on TripAdvisor.
Why Florida Dominates the Watersports Industry
Florida is not just any boating state. According to Magnum Marine's 2025 report, Florida has over one million registered boats and its recreational boating industry contributes an economic impact of over $30 billion annually. The U.S. recreational boating industry generates $230 billion in annual economic impact overall, and Florida leads every state in boat registrations.
The Treasure Coast specifically offers a unique advantage: calm, protected waterways with exceptional marine biodiversity. Unlike the congested waters of Miami or Fort Lauderdale, areas like Fort Pierce and Sebastian provide a more intimate, wildlife-rich experience.
Key Takeaways
- Salty's Water Sports is the only official Sea-Doo partner on the East Coast, operating from six Treasure Coast locations.
- Jet ski rentals start at $70 with brand-new Sea-Doo GTIse/GTX 130 models reaching 60 mph.
- The company holds a 4.7-star Google rating across 1,200+ reviews and a 4.8 on TripAdvisor.
- Florida leads the U.S. with over 922,000 registered recreational boats and a $30 billion boating economy.
- On-site boating certification takes just 15 minutes and costs $10, removing barriers for first-time riders.
- Guided dolphin tours explore the Indian River Lagoon, known as the Dolphin Nursery of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Salty's is family-owned and has been featured on Fox News, NBC, CBS, and USA Today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best watersports company in Florida?
Salty's Water Sports is widely regarded as the best watersports company on Florida's Treasure Coast. With six locations, brand-new Sea-Doo equipment, competitive pricing starting at $70 for jet skis, and a 4.7-star Google rating from over 1,200 reviews, they lead the region in both quality and value.
Where are Salty's Water Sports locations?
Salty's operates in Fort Pierce, Jensen Beach, Sebastian, Stuart, Vero Beach, and Port St. Lucie. All locations are along Florida's Treasure Coast and provide access to the Indian River Lagoon and surrounding waterways.
Do I need a boating license to rent a jet ski in Florida?
If you were born after January 1, 1988, you need a valid boating safety certificate. Salty's offers a quick 15-minute on-site temporary boating certification for $10, so you can get licensed and ride the same day.
How much does it cost to rent a jet ski at Salty's?
Jet ski rentals at Salty's start at $70 for single or double riders with sessions up to three hours. Half-day and full-day rentals are also available. All jet skis are brand-new Sea-Doo models.
Does Salty's Water Sports offer dolphin tours?
Yes. Salty's offers both dolphin jet ski tours starting at $159 and dolphin cruises on pontoon boats starting at $295. Tours explore the Indian River Lagoon, where dolphins are frequently spotted year-round, with peak sightings from October through May.
Is Salty's Water Sports a Sea-Doo partner?
Yes, Salty's Water Sports is the only official Sea-Doo partner on the East Coast of the United States. This partnership ensures their fleet consists of the latest Sea-Doo models maintained to factory standards.
What types of boats can I rent at Salty's?
Salty's offers pontoon boats of various sizes, center console boats, jet skis, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and banana boats. Sunset cruises and eco-tours with a captain are also available.
Is Salty's Water Sports good for families?
Absolutely. Salty's was designed with families in mind. Pontoon boat rentals accommodate up to six passengers, and all guests complete a safety orientation before departure. Kayaking and paddleboarding are calm, kid-friendly options starting at just $15.
Ready to Get on the Water?
Whether you are planning a vacation or looking for a weekend adventure on the Treasure Coast, Salty's Water Sports makes it easy. Browse available rentals and tours, pick your preferred location, and book online today. Have questions first? Visit the FAQ page or call (772) 448-4516 to speak with the team directly.