One of the most common questions couples ask when exploring a yacht wedding in Miami is whether the ceremony is legally valid. The short answer is yes — getting married on a yacht in Florida's state waters is fully legally binding, and the process is more straightforward than most couples expect. This guide covers exactly what is required: the right officiant, the marriage license, and how the ceremony can be structured on the water.
Is a Yacht Wedding in Miami Legally Valid?
Yes. A wedding ceremony performed on a yacht within Florida's state waters — which includes Biscayne Bay, Government Cut, the Intracoastal Waterway, and coastal Atlantic waters within the state's jurisdiction — is fully legally binding under Florida law. The vessel does not need to be docked. The ceremony can take place while cruising, while anchored, or at any point during the charter.
Florida does not require a venue permit or event license for wedding ceremonies held on private vessels. The two legal requirements are a valid Florida marriage license and a licensed officiant. Both are straightforward to arrange.
The Florida Marriage License
A Florida marriage license is obtained from any Florida county clerk's office. Both members of the couple must appear in person at the clerk's office with valid government-issued photo ID. Passports are accepted for international couples.
Florida has no waiting period — the license is valid immediately upon issuance. It remains valid for 60 days from the date of issue. Out-of-state and international couples can apply at any Florida county clerk's office; Florida residency is not required.
The license is issued same-day in most counties, including Miami-Dade. The fee is typically under $100. If both applicants have completed a state-approved premarital preparation course, a reduced fee applies.
Who Can Officiate a Yacht Wedding in Florida?
Florida law recognizes several categories of authorized officiants for marriage ceremonies:
- Ordained ministers or clergy members of any recognized religious organization
- Notaries public commissioned in the state of Florida
- Judges, magistrates, and clerks of court
- Elected or appointed public officials authorized by law
Importantly for couples who want a friend or family member to officiate: online ordination through organizations such as American Marriage Ministries or Universal Life Church is legally valid in Florida. A friend who completes the ordination process online can legally perform the marriage ceremony on the yacht, sign the marriage license, and the marriage is fully recognized by the state of Florida.
The captain of the vessel is sometimes asked whether they can legally marry a couple at sea. In the United States, the common belief that a ship's captain can perform a marriage is a myth. US captains do not have legal authority to perform marriages unless they hold one of the above qualifications independently of their maritime role.
Where and When the Ceremony Takes Place
The ceremony can happen at any point during the charter — while the vessel is underway, while anchored at a specific location, or at a particular moment along the route. Many couples time the vows around a meaningful location or moment of light.
Popular ceremony locations include anchored off Star Island with the Miami skyline as the backdrop, passing through Government Cut with the Atlantic ahead, or out on Biscayne Bay at sunset. The captain can time arrival at the chosen location with the ceremony schedule — share the preferred timing when booking and the crew will plan the route accordingly.
After the Ceremony: The Reception
Most yacht weddings continue immediately into the reception portion of the charter. The catering is served, the music shifts, and the celebration moves forward on the same vessel without any logistical gap between ceremony and reception.
For couples planning the full event, the yacht wedding packages guide covers what add-ons are available and how the coordination process works. The yacht wedding checklist provides a timeline and step-by-step planning guide for the months before the event.
To begin planning, explore the Crown Yachts Miami wedding experience or contact the team directly via WhatsApp to discuss your date, guest count, and preferred ceremony format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a wedding on a yacht in Miami legally binding?
Yes. A wedding in Florida's state waters — including Biscayne Bay — is fully legally binding under Florida law, provided it is performed by a licensed officiant and the couple holds a valid Florida marriage license.
Who can officiate a wedding on a yacht in Florida?
Ordained ministers, Florida notaries public, and judges can all officiate. Friends or family can also become ordained through recognized online organizations — this is valid in Florida and allows a loved one to perform the ceremony legally.
Do I need a special permit to get married on a yacht in Miami?
No special permit is needed. A valid Florida marriage license is the only legal requirement. Crown Yachts Miami handles all vessel permits and maritime logistics.
Can we get married while the yacht is moving?
Yes. The ceremony can take place while underway or at anchor. Many couples time the vows at a specific location — anchored off Star Island, passing Government Cut, or out on Biscayne Bay at sunset.