To gets the best deal on a pontoon boat rental, book in advance, take advantage of special discounts, consider the length of time you want to rent, and avoid peak season or holidays.
How much is the rental of a pontoon boat?
The cost of renting a pontoon boat varies depending on several factors, including the location, size, and amenities of the boat.
Generally, the rental price can range from $150 to $500 for a half-day rental, and from $300 to $1,000 for a full-day rental.
It’s important to note that some rental companies may require a deposit or a reservation fee to secure your booking.
Additionally, some rental companies may include insurance in the rental price, while others may charge an additional fee for insurance coverage.
When comparing rental prices, be sure to consider the overall value of the rental, including the condition of the boat, the level of customer service provided by the rental company, and any included amenities such as life jackets or a GPS navigation system.
Which state has the highest rental fee?
In general, you can expect to pay more in popular vacation spots where demand for boat rentals is high. .
One state where pontoon boat rentals can be expensive is California.
This is largely due to the fact that many popular tourist destinations in the state are located near bodies of water, such as Lake Tahoe or the San Francisco Bay.
As a result, the demand for boat rentals is high and prices can be steep.
Another state with high rental fees for pontoon boats is Florida.
This is because Florida is home to numerous waterways, such as the Intracoastal Waterway, the St. Johns River, and the Gulf of Mexico.
With so many options for boating, there is high demand for pontoon boat rentals, which drives up prices.
Which state has the lowest rental fee?
If you’re on a budget, you might want to consider renting a pontoon boat in Wisconsin, which has the lowest average rental fee of $180 for a half-day and $320 for a full day.
This is significantly cheaper compared to other states, where prices can range from $250-$400 for a half-day and $400-$800 for a full day rental.
Some popular locations in Wisconsin for pontoon rentals include Lake Geneva, the Wisconsin Dells, and Eagle River.
Top 8 pontoon boat rental companies in US
To help you narrow down your options, here are the top 10 pontoon boat rental companies in the US:
1. Boatsetter – With a vast selection of pontoon boats available in multiple locations, Boatsetter offers a convenient and easy rental process for any boating enthusiast.
2. The Moorings – This company offers pontoon boat rentals in various locations across the US and has a fleet of modern and well-maintained boats to choose from.
3. Cruise America – A popular choice for family vacations, Cruise America provides affordable and reliable pontoon boat rentals in several states.
4. Marina Del Rey Boat Rentals – Operating in Southern California, this company offers high-quality pontoon boats and top-notch customer service.
5. Lake Mead Marina – If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable pontoon boat rental experience, Lake Mead Marina in Nevada offers rentals for exploring the breathtaking Hoover Dam and Lake Mead.
6. The Reserve at Lake Travis – Located in Texas, The Reserve at Lake Travis offers pontoon boat rentals for cruising the stunning Hill Country lakes and reservoirs.
7. Vantage Yacht Club – This company offers exclusive pontoon boat rentals in New York and New Jersey for those seeking a luxurious and sophisticated boating experience.
8. Twin Anchors Houseboats – Based in Idaho, Twin Anchors Houseboats offers unique pontoon boat rentals for exploring the picturesque lakes and rivers of the Pacific Northwest.
Do you need a boat license to rent a pontoon boat?
Each state in the US has its own laws and regulations regarding boating, majority states require a boating safety course and license before operating a boat.
Currently, the states that require a boating license to operate a pontoon boat are Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
If you plan to rent a pontoon boat in one of these states, you will need to obtain a boating safety certificate or license before you can operate the boat.
However, if you plan to rent a boat in a state that does not require a license, you may still be required to take a safety course or demonstrate your knowledge of boating rules and regulations.
Regardless of the state you are renting in, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the boating laws and regulations before you hit the water.
This will ensure that you are operating the boat safely and responsibly and will help you avoid any potential legal issues or accidents while on the water.
How old do you have to be to rent a pontoon boat?
Each state has its own minimum age requirement for renting a pontoon boat. In California, you must be at least 21 years old to rent a pontoon boat.
In Texas, the minimum age requirement is 18 years old. And in New York, you must be at least 16 years old to rent a pontoon boat.
It’s important to check the age requirements in your state before you book your rental. Additionally, some rental companies may require a valid ID and a credit card to rent a pontoon boat.
It’s always best to confirm all rental requirements beforehand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable boating experience.
Is driving a pontoon boat easy?
The good news is that pontoon boats are generally easier to handle than other types of boats. They are larger, slower, and more stable, making them more forgiving if you make mistakes.
However, it’s still important to familiarize yourself with the controls of the boat and learn the basic boating safety rules before you head out on the water.
The rental company should provide you with a safety briefing and instructions on how to operate the boat. You can also watch online tutorials or take a boating course to help you feel more confident.
One thing to keep in mind is that wind and currents can affect the handling of the boat.
If you’re boating in windy conditions or in strong currents, you might find it more challenging to control the boat.
In these situations, it’s important to take it slow and steady and to be aware of other boats and obstacles around you.
What is the most popular size pontoon boat?
The most popular size pontoon boat for rentals is the 22-24 foot pontoon boat. These boats are versatile, comfortable and offer plenty of room for a group of friends or family.
A 22-24 foot pontoon boat typically can accommodate up to 12 passengers, depending on the weight distribution.
They offer plenty of seating, including comfortable lounges, captain’s chairs, and benches. These boats are great for relaxing and enjoying the water with family and friends.
Additionally, a 22-24 foot pontoon boat is typically easy to handle and operate.
They offer enough power to tow skiers and tubers, making them great for recreational activities.
When to rent to get best deal?
Timing is everything when it comes to getting the best deal on a pontoon boat rental. If you’re looking to save money, the best time to rent is during the off-season or on weekdays.
During peak season or holidays, the prices tend to be higher due to the high demand. Additionally, it’s best to book your rental in advance as rates tend to go up the closer you get to the rental date.
Another tip for getting a good deal is to check for special discounts or promotions offered by rental companies. These can include early bird discounts, last-minute deals, or loyalty rewards.
Some rental companies also offer package deals that include additional activities such as fishing or water sports, which can help you save money in the long run.
Are pontoon boats safer than regular boats?
While every boat comes with some level of risk, pontoon boats are generally considered to be safer than other types of boats for a few reasons.
First, pontoon boats are designed with a flat, stable deck that makes them less likely to tip over or capsize, especially in calm water conditions.
This design also makes them more comfortable for passengers, as there is less rocking and swaying.
Additionally, pontoon boats have a lower center of gravity than many other types of boats, which means they are less likely to roll over in rough water conditions.
Finally, pontoon boats are often equipped with safety features like life jackets, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. These features can help prevent accidents or minimize injuries in the event of an emergency.
That said, it’s important to remember that any boat can be dangerous if not operated safely.
It’s important to follow all safety guidelines, including wearing life jackets, operating the boat at safe speeds, and staying alert while on the water.
Do you need insurance to drive a pontoon boat?
Insurance is not always required to rent and operate a pontoon boat, but it is highly recommended. Most rental companies will offer insurance for an additional fee.
Having insurance for your rental can give you peace of mind while you are out on the water. Accidents can happen, and having insurance can help cover any damages or injuries that may occur.
It is important to check with your rental company to see what their insurance options are and what they cover.
Additionally, if you already have boat insurance for personal watercraft, such as a kayak or canoe, it is important to check if your policy covers pontoon boats as well.
Some policies may have limitations on the types of boats they cover.
