Florida Boaters Grapple with Surging Fuel Costs

Rising gas prices impact charter fishing, boat rentals, and recreational boating across the Sunshine State

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:03am

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As boat fuel prices continue to rise quickly and steeply, Florida boaters may be changing their habits and charter fishing captains are considering adding extra fuel charges if the situation doesn't change soon. The average price for regular gas was $5.37 a gallon and diesel was $5.68 per gallon after tax at some marinas surveyed on March 31. Charter captains and recreational boaters are feeling the pinch, with some considering fuel surcharges or cutting back on trips, while others have not yet seen a decline in business.

Why it matters

Fishing and boating are crucial to Florida's economy, generating $13.8 billion a year and supporting 120,000 jobs. Florida also leads the nation in boat ownership with 1.2 million registered boats. The rising fuel costs threaten to impact this important industry and recreational activity across the state.

The details

Charter fishing captains like Rocky Carbia and Richard Hunt say they may have to add fuel surcharges to their trips if prices don't drop soon, as bait and tackle costs have already been rising. Treasure Coast Boat Rentals in Fort Pierce hasn't seen a decline in business yet, but owner Erik Parrish expects the busy spring and summer season could be impacted. Recreational boater Keith Palant hasn't changed his habits yet, but says others may start to cut back. Some boaters, like snowbird John Caffiero, say they'll still book offshore fishing trips despite the added fuel costs.

  • On March 31, the average price for regular gas was $5.37 a gallon and diesel was $5.68 per gallon after tax at some marinas surveyed.
  • Boat fuel prices have increased by over $1 since early March.

The players

Rocky Carbia

A charter fishing captain from Stuart who operates the Safari 1 head boat from Pirate's Cove Resort & Marina.

Richard Hunt

A charter fishing captain and Fort Pierce native who owns Little Adam Fishing Charters.

Erik Parrish

The owner of Treasure Coast Boat Rentals in Fort Pierce.

Keith Palant

A member of the Stuart Rod & Reel Club and recreational boater who's on the water about four days a week.

John Caffiero

A Jensen Beach snowbird and Freedom Boat Club member.

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What they’re saying

“Bait and tackle have already been going up — and now fuel. I have to think about it (a boat fuel charge). If this temporary, I won't, but temporary is not a year.”

— Rocky Carbia, Charter Fishing Captain

“You still have to travel about 10 miles offshore. I am not hearing from my regulars or locals as much, but I'm still getting trips from visitors. If you are a local, you're probably going to go with a buddy, rather than book a charter.”

— Richard Hunt, Charter Fishing Captain

“I have not seen a decline yet, but it has been spring break.”

— Keith Palant, Recreational Boater

“If it costs another $150 for fuel, I am not cancelling the charter because of it.”

— John Caffiero, Recreational Boater

What’s next

Boaters and charter captains will continue to monitor fuel prices in the coming weeks and months to determine if they need to implement fuel surcharges or adjust their boating habits.

The takeaway

The surge in boat fuel prices threatens to disrupt Florida's vital fishing and boating industries, which generate billions in economic activity and support thousands of jobs. While some boaters are willing to absorb the added costs, others may be forced to cut back on trips, potentially impacting marinas, charter companies, and related businesses across the state.