Lake Tahoe Boat Rental

Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America, is ideally suited to all water sports, in particular boating. It’s incredibly clear, clean water is one of the reasons thousands of people travel every year to the lake to enjoy a fun filled vacation of water based activities.

There are a number of boat rental companies on both the north and south shore of Lake Tahoe, which hire out different types of boats to visitors. These include power boats, pontoons, and sail boats. Boats can usually be delivered to your rental property if it includes a pier or buoy. Alternatively, you can collect.

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Visitors must have boating experience to be able to rent a boat on Lake Tahoe. However, if you have no previous boating experience you can hire a Coast Guard approved captain for your trip, or you can take a Coast Guard approved course online. Many rental companies also will not rent boats to bachelor parties or adults under 25.

The larger powerboats are suitable for wake boarding and water skiing, as well as cruising. Many boats come with iPod connection points and stereos, so you can listen to your tunes while enjoying the lake scenery. Seating capacity depends on the size of the boat—always checks with the rental company which boat is going to be suitable for your specific requirements.

For a small power boat, suitable for 7 adults, average prices are as follows: $120 1 hour, $360 half day / 4 hours, $780 full day / 8 hours. For a larger boat suitable for wake boarding and water skiing, typical rental prices are: $150 1 hour, $450 half day, $900 full day. Prices for pontoon rental seating a maximum of 16 adults are approximately $160 1 hour, $480 half day, $870 full day.

There is usually a tank of fuel, plus life jackets, included in the rental price. Any extra fuel used during the rental will be charged upon return of the boat. Equipment such as wake boards, water skis, tubes etc, can be hired for a small fee.

If you do fancy hiring a boat during your vacation on Lake Tahoe, it is well worth reserving your boat early. The peak summer season is an exceptionally busy time for boat rentals and most companies operate on a first come, first served basis. You will have the best choice of boats and equipment if you book well in advance.