Find The Best Boat Rentals in Boston, MA.

Things to know about boating in Boston

Taking an island cruise is one of the best ways to enjoy a day on the waters with your family. Rent a powerboat or a yacht in Boston and explore the waterways and see the city from a new perspective. No visit is complete without taking a beautiful twilight tour from a boat. Sit back and enjoy the dazzling city come to life and make memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’d prefer to explore by wind instead of a motor, rent a sailboat or charter a sailing tour while you’re staying in Boston. You can explore the waterways or Massachusetts Bay, and experience the liberating feeling that sailing the sea gives to anyone.

While on a boat or yacht charter, you can go all the way to the harbor islands. For a beach day, head to the Lovells Island or Spectacle Island and park your boat for a day of sunbathing. Cruise around different islands and different parts of the city to see more than you would on foot. Another option for those looking for a romantic option is to take a sunset cruise overlooking the Boston Skyline. Sunset Cruises in Boston are a great way to unwind or even set the mood for a perfect proposal.

Whenever you visit Boston, the Charles River and the Boston Harbor must be on your to-do list. There are almost 30 mooring available at the Boston Harbor and most piers offer the convenience of passenger pick- up and drop-off spots. The popular islands such as Peddocks, Bumpkin, Spectacle, and Georges offer free moorings in safe anchorage on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Fishing charters and tours are a great experience to have while in Boston. It's a popular fishing destination and there is a deep fishing history in the city. The fishing around Boston includes both fresh and saltwater options.

For active and sporty travelers, check out your rental options for paddlesports. Rent a stand-up paddleboard or a kayak, or take a guided tour for a day of exercise and adventure.

Water Activities in Boston

Boston has traditionally been a seafaring city and has been one of the world’s wealthiest ports for centuries. Steeped in maritime tradition and history, boaters will enjoy the unique boating atmosphere. There are many islands and varied waterways that surround the city. Cruise on the Charles River, Neponset River, Mystic River, and of course the famous Boston Harbor. With so many water playgrounds to choose from, boaters will find that there are many kinds of activities that they can enjoy during their stay.

Although Boston remains a bustling commercial seaside city, it's popular with recreational boaters. Everything from palatial mega yachts to modest power boats is available to rent in Boston, so check out your options on GetMyBoat.

Other Things To Do

There are so many things to see and do in Boston, it's likely that you'll be staying for several days on your trip. If you need ideas on accommodation, check out this awesome feature on the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Boston by Enjoy Travel Life. This travel site offers a lot of insider tips on things to see and do in Boston too.

While on land, there are endless activities and things to see. Stop at Faneuil Hall to see the shops in this massive market. Grab a bite to eat and enjoy people-watching in this busy commercial area.

If you're a baseball fan, make sure you get to experience a ball game at Fenway Park. It's a historic venue that also hosts concerts and is home to the Red Sox.

Considering the important role that Boston played in shaping the history and foundation of the United States, it's the perfect city for a walking tour. Visit the Old North Church and the Old State House. Head to Newbury street if you're looking to do some shopping.

Marinas in Boston

A few of the top marinas in Boston include Constitution Marina, Boston Waterboat Marina, and Brewer Marina Bay Boston. These marinas are busy, with lots of boats cruising in and out of port, many to admire moored in their berths. A lot of the marinas in Boston have a lot of historical significance to the city, and they are easily accessible from the city center. Be sure to bring your camera to snap some photos in these idyllic spots.

Nearby Cities to Visit

Additional cities to visit include Quincy, Scituate, Gloucester, Newburyport, Portsmouth, and further inland, New London and Sunapee.

About Boston

Boston is an incredible city in New England to visit for a vacation. It’s rich in history, with fun nightlife and things to do and see. Summer in Boston is one of the best times to enjoy boating. The city experiences the maritime effect of the North Atlantic, making it a pleasant place to pursue various water activities. Many rivers run across the city, offering you plenty of opportunities to explore canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and more. Navigate the waterways in your own boat, or enjoy taking a tour in one of the cruises.

To get to Boston, you can take a flight direct to Boston-Logan International Airport and from there take a taxi, shuttle, or bus to the city center. You can also arrive in Boston by Greyhound bus or on a train from many other New England cities.

Boston Boat Rental FAQs

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Boston?

Boat rentals in Boston start at $150/hour for a basic powerboat rental for a city sightseeing tour in Boston. Prices for a boat rental or charter in Boston can go up to over $1000/hour for luxury yacht charters.

Where can I boat in Boston?

Popular boating spots in Boston include Lovell’s Island, the Charles River, the National Park on Harbor Islands, and other islands off the coast of the city like Spectacle Island, Thompson Island, and Nantasket Beach.

Do you need a boating license in Boston, MA?

You do not need a special license, however boaters under the age of 18 need to complete a boating safety course successfully and receive a certificate, and then they can operate a motor boat under adult supervision.

What is the best time of year to visit Boston?

The best time of year to visit Boston is during May and June or September and October. The temperatures will be pleasant without being too hot and you can enjoy the highlights of the city like boating, and sightseeing without huge crowds.