The Best Boat Rentals in Denver

Most Denver-area powerboat rentals fall between about $100–$150 per hour for pontoons and $150–$250+ per hour for wake/surf boats, with half-day outings commonly $400–$700 and full days $700–$1,200. Prices typically include standard safety gear and fuel for lighter cruising; owners may charge extra for heavier fuel use, captain services, or add‑ons like towable tubes. Expect a refundable security deposit and remember that state park entry fees are separate from the boat price.

You’ll find plenty of comfortable pontoons for relaxed cruising, performance wake and surf boats for tow sports, classic bowriders and runabouts for family days, and in some nearby mountain lakes, sailboats. Larger “yacht” style vessels are uncommon here because most boating takes place on reservoirs, but you’ll still have great options for groups, celebrations, and watersports.

You can do either. Many listings offer a licensed captain so your group can relax while someone else handles docking, navigation, and local rules. Confident boaters can book self‑operated rentals; owners will give a safety briefing and may require prior experience. If you’re planning a party or tow sports with a mixed‑experience crew, a captained trip is often the least stressful choice.

The most common launch points are The Marina at Cherry Creek inside Cherry Creek State Park in Aurora and Chatfield Marina at Chatfield State Park in Littleton. For a scenic day trip from Denver, many renters also head up to Dillon Reservoir (Dillon and Frisco marinas) or north to Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins. Always confirm your pickup location with the owner after you book.

Expect big Front Range views, wide‑open prairie skies, and, on clear days, snow‑dusted peaks on the horizon. Around the reservoirs you may spot pelicans, herons, ospreys, and the occasional bald eagle, plus deer along the shoreline. Sunset cruises often deliver the best colors, while mornings are calm and great for glassy‑water conditions.

For captained trips, you don’t need any license. To operate a motorboat yourself in Colorado, adults 18+ may drive, while teens ages 14–17 may operate only if they complete a Colorado Parks & Wildlife‑approved boating safety course and carry their certificate. Individual owners may set higher age or experience requirements for their boats.

Yes—families are welcome. Every rental includes U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jackets, and Colorado requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while underway. Tell the owner your group size and the ages of any children so they can have the right sizes ready before you arrive.

Most captained and self‑operated rentals allow you to bring snacks, picnic items, and non‑glass beverages. Glass is strongly discouraged, and some marinas and owners prohibit alcohol on self‑drive rentals. If you plan to celebrate with drinks, choose a captained charter and stick to cans; always check your listing’s specific rules.

Pet policies vary by owner and marina. Some private charters welcome dogs with prior approval and a cleaning fee, while certain marina rental fleets do not allow pets at all. If you’re bringing a pup, mention the breed and size in your booking request and pack a towel, leash, and water bowl.

Colorado’s summer afternoons can bring pop‑up wind and thunderstorms, and marinas pause operations for lightning or unsafe conditions. Many owners offer weather‑related rescheduling if the captain or park rangers call it for safety. Check your listing’s cancellation policy, and build in a little flexibility if you’re boating during monsoon‑season afternoons.

Absolutely. Pontoons and wake boats are popular for celebrations, and captained trips make hosting easy—your captain handles the boat while you handle the fun. Share your headcount, desired vibe (chill cruise vs. high‑energy tow sports), music preferences, and any décor or cake plans so your host can suggest the best boat and meeting spot.

Peak season runs roughly May through September, with the busiest days on holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day. For the smoothest water and lighter boat traffic, book weekday mornings. Late summer and early fall often deliver warm days with fewer crowds; just bring a layer for cooler evenings at elevation.

This popular summer event takes place at Sloan’s Lake in Denver and can limit on‑lake access there during race days, and occasional water‑quality advisories may shift dates. It does not impact boating at Cherry Creek or Chatfield, which are the primary departure points for most Denver‑area rentals. If your trip overlaps with festival weekend, simply plan to launch from the state parks.