Cool Breeze Boats Rentals

"Our first encounter with this boat rental. We have visited and stayed at Nokomis Beach area in the past. This time we thought we would rent a pontoon and enjoy some time cruising the intercostal waterway. I have driven boats for over 40 years, owned multiple vessels in the past and currently own a 22’ pontoon with a 115hp motor. I am a very methodical , cautious, and alert when captaining. I am not someone who normally complains and a friendly disposition. I also can understand and am very aware of when I am being taken advantage of as a customer. I confirmed time and date of our pontoon rental with the owner two days prior to arrival. When I showed up at the rental desk, the two younger guys who waited on me were friendly, gave a good suggestion of where to dock for lunch and gave a map with specific direction recommendations. One of the guys took a couple of pics of boat and explained this was normal and ensure that no damage occurred. I should have caught on immediately that there would be an issue when he mentioned the prop had just been changed and looked brand new and was zooming a shot of the prop. I even jokingly said that it did appear to be newer than my prop on my boat. I also said that I have painted my prop in the past as it does show wear eventually. Our party consisted of myself, my wife, parents and aunt who are in their 70s. We took the boat out and followed the directions given earlier, staying between buoys on main drive. The only time we left the main driving lane was where we were told earlier to take the boat and see some beach area after buoy 41. Due to low tide and depth, we reached about 4.5 ft deep on the track and turned around . We then headed back to main route, ate lunch and took boat back to the rental spot. When we pulled up to the gas pump and return pontoon, we had a few minutes of pleasant conversation with Cool Breeze employees. We thanked them for lunch site recommendation and I even tipped the two guys who checked us in. After paying for the gas used, one of the employees walked up and asked if I had hit anything to do damage to the prop. I said no, and why would he ask this question. I stated the prop that was currently on the boat was the wrong pitch, because RPMs jumped and did not affect speed. He replied the prop looked like the paint had come off and he said he sent a picture to his boss (who was not on site). My father responded that I did not hit anything and did not appreciate invalid accusation. I also replied that absolutely nothing was hit and would appreciate if they would take the boat out to verify nothing was wrong. (Which they never did). When I mentioned we went down the location suggested earlier and were in shallow water, we turned around. The employee indicated that the paint wearing off was due to sand damage. He said the business would have to tear the motor down completely and see if any damage had occurred. I was also informed that I signed the waiver and the additional costs for this type of wear was $75. From experience, if you paint a prop with very cheap spray can, it will not adhere after being on water for a very short time. As an individual who has replaced and repaired props, if damage was done, you immediately will feel this upon driving the boat. We paid over $500 for day, did not abuse any equipment and followed directions provided. Additionally, the cost of disassembly and any type of true repair would be way more than $75. It does frustrate me when businesses tack on unexpected, hidden or falsify costs to make a few extra dollars. Our family thoroughly enjoyed this outing and planned to return for other trips. This rental location has lost a potential repeat customer. I have and will ensure to share our “Cool Breeze” experience with all the other rental units in the Venice area we stay at. Two star review, because my family enjoyed the trip and lunch location recommendation."

"I have to say that renting with Cool Breeze was that easy. The location was easy to get to and park. It was the perf3ct distance to take a leisurely ride up to Siesta Key, have lunch, and get back with a bonus of dolphins following us part of the way. The guys were great. The boat was in beautiful condition. They helped map out a great 4 hour trip with some spot on recommendations. Best of all, their prices are the best in the Venice, Florida area. We will rent from them annually in the future. 5 stars. Great people."

"We had the perfect day with family!! Infant to senior - fun for everyone. Great greeting and directions. Felt like I was right at home."

"We rented a boat and had Johnny captain for us and our family had a blast. An 8 hour trip of sight seeing, sandbars, and good music. Johnny made sure our party of 7 had the best possible day! We love planning boating days with this company every time we vacation to Florida!!"

"Had an awesome time today jet-skiing with my two children. Both the young men, who got us set up and ready to go were very friendly and attentive. The experience was awesome and it was both my children's first time on a jet-ski and we most definitely will be returning very soon! Thank you to Johny and his staff for the friendly, excellent service they provided! Its so appreciated!"