Home/Blog/Pricing Guide

How Much Does Boat Removal Cost in Florida?

One of the most common questions we get is: "How much does this cost?" It's a fair question, and one that deserves an honest answer rather than a vague "it depends."

The honest answer is that removal pricing depends on your specific boat, its condition, and where it is. That's enough variation that we don't publish a fixed price list. What we can give you is a clear picture of exactly what drives the number up or down, so you know what to expect before you call.

What Factors Affect Boat Removal Price

• Vessel size: the single biggest factor. Larger boats require more equipment, larger crews, and more time.
• Location: remote locations (the 10,000 Islands, the Florida Keys, Pine Island Sound) generally cost more to reach than easily accessible urban locations.
• Accessibility: tight canal access, low bridges, or difficult staging areas add to the job.
• Vessel condition: sunken vessels cost more to handle than floating ones; structurally compromised boats require extra care.
• Environmental complications: fuel spills or proximity to protected ecosystems add complexity and cost.
• Permits required: some locations require permits that add time and cost.

Junk Boat Disposal

If your boat is on land, in storage, or at a dock and needs to be removed and disposed of, size is the starting point. A small boat under 20 ft is a fundamentally smaller job than a 40-footer, but condition and access usually move the number more than size alone. A boat sitting in an open yard with a clear path for a trailer is a different job than the same boat wedged behind a fence or down a narrow easement.

Sunken Boat Recovery

Sunken recovery costs more than basic disposal because it requires specialized salvage equipment and a careful, staged approach rather than a straightforward tow. Water depth, how long the boat has been underwater, and whether it's in a canal, a marina, or open water all factor into the job.

If your vessel sank due to an insured event, your marine insurance may cover all or part of these costs. Always check your policy before paying out of pocket.

Storm Damage Removal

A boat that's still floating but damaged is generally a similar job to standard disposal or recovery. A boat displaced onto land by a storm costs more, and the difference between easy and difficult access at that land site is often the biggest swing factor. A boat that's partially sunk with storm damage falls under sunken-recovery pricing rather than standard removal.

Overland Transport

Transport pricing scales primarily with distance: a short haul within the local area costs less than a long-distance move across state lines, plus whether the boat has a working trailer or needs to be moved without one.

Does Insurance Cover Boat Removal?

Many marine insurance policies include coverage for salvage costs after accidental sinking, wreck removal after a covered total loss, and storm damage removal after a named hurricane or tropical storm. Coverage varies by policy, so check your declarations page or call your insurer. We work directly with insurers and can provide documentation to support your claim on request.

How to Get a Free Quote

The only way to get an accurate number for your specific situation is to contact us directly. Call (904) 341-4101 and have ready: vessel size and type, location, current condition, and photos if possible (text to the same number). Requesting a quote is free, but the removal itself is a paid service based on what we find.

Kenneth Farmer

Owner, AAA Boat Salvage Inc.

Florida native. Commercial fisherman. Boat builder. Marine salvage expert. Family marine legacy since 1847.