A compact Key West bay boat built for backcountry fishing, snorkeling and small-group days on the water

BIG PINE KEY BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

A compact Key West bay boat built for backcountry fishing, snorkeling and small-group days on the water

Caroline's 189 Key West 'Caroline 9' combines a 150 HP Yamaha and integrated Garmin electronics to support fishing, snorkeling or relaxed day trips out of Big Pine Key.

A compact Key West bay boat built for backcountry fishing, snorkeling and small-group days on the water.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Big Pine Key
Operator
Caroline's Boat Rentals LLC
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set off from Big Pine Key aboard the Caroline 9, a 189 Key West vessel configured for backcountry and bay fishing, snorkeling and day excursions; its onboard Garmin suite and 150 HP Yamaha engine make it a capable platform for small groups seeking a focused day on the water.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE BOAT

A purpose-built 189 Key West with advanced navigation

Caroline 9 is outfitted with an 8612 chart plotter, Garmin sonar transducer with thru-hull CHIRP, radar, autopilot, and a Garmin VHF marine radio; propulsion comes from a 150 HP Yamaha motor, giving you the systems and performance needed for bays and backcountry fishing.

THE ACTIVITIES

Versatile platform for fishing, snorkeling and day trips

The operator positions the boat as suitable for relaxed fishing cruises, snorkeling adventures, day outings, and small celebration packages—options are packaged for family days, parties or dedicated fishing excursions.

THE COMFORT

Small-group setup with storage and entertainment

The vessel accommodates up to five people, offers extra storage and a Fusion stereo system with satellite radio and Bluetooth for onboard entertainment, and carries fishing-ready gear such as Taco outriggers.

What the day feels like

What the outing feels like

A day aboard the Caroline 9 is compact and purposeful: load a small group, harness the Garmin electronics to find fish or navigate to a snorkel spot, and run comfortable bay or backcountry legs under a 150 HP Yamaha. The boat is configured to be adaptable—one trip might be a focused fishing outing, the next a relaxed day of sun and snorkeling.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this boat suits — and who should look elsewhere.

1
Small groups & familiesIdeal for parties of up to five who want a short, private outing for fishing, snorkeling or a relaxed day afloat; group size must not exceed the vessel’s five-person capacity.
2
AnglersWell-suited to anglers who want a purpose-built shallow-water platform with outriggers and integrated Garmin sonar and plotter for backcountry and bay fishing.
3
Party groups / celebrationsConfigured to host small celebrations—birthdays, bachelor parties or Father’s Day outings—for up to five people, with onboard stereo and storage for supplies.
4
First-time boat rentersAppropriate for renters comfortable handling a small powerboat; the operator requires renters to be at least 21 years old, so solo minors or underage groups cannot rent.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

You may bring your own food and drink; the operator rents coolers if you need one.

Extras & Amenities

The boat includes onboard stereo entertainment and extra storage; bring preferred beverages and ice or rent a cooler from the operator.

Booking Tip

Reservations are recommended in advance; for short-term rentals contact the operator to confirm availability and booking procedures.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How many people can ride aboard Caroline 9?

The vessel has a maximum capacity of five people.

Are there age restrictions to rent this boat?

You must be 21 years or older to rent the vessel.

What are the rental durations and rates?

Rates vary by length: one day (call to book) $450; two days $425 per day (call to book); three days $385 per day; 4–14 days $350 per day; 15–30 days $325 per day.

What is the minimum or typical rental length?

The advertised durations cover 4–30 days; for short-term rentals you must call or email the operator to arrange shorter periods.

Does the operator deliver the boat?

The operator offers delivery and pickup within 30 miles of Marathon; you must provide delivery and pickup addresses during checkout.

What equipment and electronics are included?

Included equipment highlights the Garmin 8612 chartplotter, Garmin VHF marine radio, CHIRP thru-hull sonar, autopilot, radar, Fusion stereo with satellite radio and Bluetooth, and Taco 28' outriggers for fishing.