The Best Boat Rentals Near Conway

Expect most self-operated pontoon and runabout rentals on nearby lakes to run roughly $400–$600 per full day in the Conway area, with smaller, lower-horsepower pontoons starting around $375 and larger or higher-horsepower models closer to $550–$700 in peak summer. Captained outings you’ll find on Getmyboat are often priced by the hour, commonly about $100–$250 per hour depending on the boat size, duration, and what activities you plan. Base prices usually include required safety gear and life jackets; fuel, taxes, and add-ons like tubing or water-sports packages may be extra. Always check the listing for what’s included before you book. (ossipee.goodhueboat.com, boatrentalsnh.com, getmyboat.com)

You’ll see plenty of comfortable pontoon boats for relaxing cruises and swimming stops, plus bowriders and deck boats suited for sightseeing and light tow sports. Some listings also offer fishing-friendly powerboats, and on nearby lakes you may find jet skis as well. Availability varies by season and lake, so browse current listings for your dates to compare passenger capacity, horsepower, and features. (getmyboat.com, boatrentalsnh.com)

Both are options. If you prefer a hands-off day, captained charters handle the driving, route, and docking for you. If you want to run the boat yourself, New Hampshire requires anyone 16 or older who operates a motorboat over 25 horsepower to hold a boating education certificate (New Hampshire or NASBLA-approved). Many marinas also offer lower-horsepower pontoons that do not require a certificate. Choose what matches your group’s comfort level and experience. (nhsp.dos.nh.gov, boatrentalsnh.com)

Common meeting spots include the Conway Lake public boat launch on Mill Street in Center Conway and the Silver Lake public launch by Breed Road in Madison. For larger-water options south of town, many trips use the Pine River public ramp off Route 25 for access to Ossipee Lake. Your captain or owner will confirm the exact pickup point after booking. (conwaylake.org, www2.slakenh.org, upstatenh.com)

From Conway Lake or Silver Lake, expect classic White Mountains scenery—tree-lined shores, big sky reflections, and views toward peaks like Mount Chocorua. Summer brings warm, calm mornings great for cruising and swimming, while late September and early October deliver vibrant foliage along the shoreline. Keep an eye out for loons, ospreys, and even bald eagles.

New Hampshire has mandatory boating education: everyone 16 and older operating a motorboat over 25 horsepower on state waters must carry a boating education certificate (NH or NASBLA-approved). Captained charters don’t require you to be certified because the captain is the operator. Some rental fleets also offer 25-hp pontoons that do not require a certificate.

Yes—families are welcome. By law, children 12 and under must wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket while underway, and every vessel must carry properly sized life jackets for all passengers; boats 16 feet and over also need a throwable device. Your captain or owner supplies required safety gear and will size life jackets before departure. (nhsp.dos.nh.gov, uscgboating.org)

Most hosts allow you to bring snacks, picnic items, and coolers, and many prefer cans or reusable bottles instead of glass. In New Hampshire, having alcohol aboard is legal, but operating under the influence is not; captains and self-operated renters must remain sober to ensure safety and compliance. Always follow the rules listed on your booking and your captain’s instructions.

Many local owners are dog-friendly, especially on pontoon boats with open decks and shade, though policies vary by listing and may include a pet fee or cleaning charge. If you’re bringing a pup, mention it in your inquiry, bring a leash and a non-glass water bowl, and plan a shoreline break during longer outings.

Summer in the White Mountains can bring quick pop-up showers or afternoon thunderstorms, while mornings are often calmer. Most owners monitor the forecast and work with you if unsafe weather is expected; specific reschedule or refund terms depend on the listing’s cancellation policy. July is typically the warmest month, with long daylight and the most boating activity.

Absolutely. Hosts in the Conway area regularly run celebratory cruises—think low-key sightseeing, swim stops, and music. Many captains can suggest routes and timing, and some listings note experience hosting bachelorette trips and family gatherings. Share your headcount, preferred vibe, and any décor or cake plans when you inquire so the captain can prepare.

Peak boating runs from late May through September, with the busiest weekends around Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day. For the easiest logistics and smoother water, book weekday mornings; afternoons on sunny weekends see more traffic at ramps and on the lake. Late September and early October are gorgeous for foliage cruises with cooler air and lighter crowds.

Yes—loons are regularly seen on area lakes, along with osprey and the occasional eagle. Enjoy them from a distance and avoid idling near nests or chicks. New Hampshire enforces protections for loons; your captain will keep a respectful buffer so you can watch and photograph without disturbance.