The Best Boat Rentals in Grapevine

On Lake Grapevine, most pontoons run about $100–$150 per hour, while wake and surf boats are commonly $150–$250 per hour, with higher rates on summer weekends and holidays. Day rates are also available on some boats and can be a good value for longer outings. Inclusions vary by listing, but you can generally expect required safety gear and adult life jackets, with options like tubes or wakeboards often offered. Fuel, captain fees, taxes, and service or cleaning fees may be included or itemized; check each listing to see what’s covered and whether a refundable security deposit applies.

You’ll find a wide mix suited for groups and activities on Lake Grapevine, including comfortable pontoon and tritoon boats for cruising and cove time, wake and surf boats outfitted for watersports, nimble jet boats, and fishing boats for early-morning angling. Sailboats also frequent the lake thanks to active local sailing groups. Full-size yachts are less common due to the lake’s size, but premium pontoons and double-decker party pontoons can deliver a similar celebratory vibe for larger groups.

Both options are available. A captained trip is the stress-free choice for celebrations or first-time boaters, since your captain handles navigation, anchoring, and local hot spots. Self-operated rentals are a great fit if you have recent boating experience; just remember that in Texas, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must complete approved boater education to operate a powerboat over 15 horsepower. If you’re torn, choose a captained charter for your first outing and consider a self-drive on your next visit.

Common meeting points include Scott’s Landing Marina inside Oak Grove Park on the south shore and Silver Lake Marina near the dam and Gaylord Texan. Many trips also arrange pickups at nearby public launch areas such as Meadowmere Park, Katie’s Woods, Oak Grove Park’s ramps (including McPherson Slough), Lakeview Park, or the Corps-managed Murrell Park on the north side. Your captain or owner will confirm the exact dock, gate, or ramp based on lake levels, parking, and wind conditions.

Expect wooded shorelines, sheltered coves, and limestone bluffs near Rockledge Park, along with views of the dam and Fairway Drive that crosses it. You’ll often spot herons and egrets along the shallows, and on clear days you may catch dramatic flyovers as planes approach DFW Airport. Sunset rides frame the city skyline glow beyond the treetops and make for especially photogenic moments.

Texas requires approved boater education for anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 who wants to operate a powerboat over 15 horsepower. You’ll need to carry photo ID and proof of course completion. Operators must be at least 13 to operate with boater education, and many owners set higher minimum ages for self-drive rentals. Captained charters do not require you to hold a license, since your captain is at the helm.

Yes—families are welcome. Texas law requires that children under 13 wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket whenever the boat is underway, and every vessel must carry properly sized life jackets for all passengers. Most rentals provide adult life jackets by default; if you need infant or child sizes, mention ages and approximate weights during booking so the right gear is on board when you arrive.

Bringing your own snacks and drinks is common, and many boats have coolers or allow you to bring one. Alcohol is permitted for adult passengers, but the operator must remain sober. If you’re staging onshore before or after your trip, note that Grapevine’s lake parks prohibit glass containers and restrict open alcoholic beverages at boat ramps and in parking lots; cans and reusable bottles are the simplest plan. Always confirm your specific boat’s policies on beverages and cleanup.

Many owners allow well-behaved dogs with prior approval, and some may charge a modest cleaning fee. Around the lake, pets must stay leashed in developed recreation areas, and they aren’t allowed in designated swimming beach zones. Pack a towel, water bowl, and a blanket to protect seats, and let the owner know you’re bringing a pet so they can advise on boarding and deck rules.

North Texas can see pop-up thunderstorms and gusty winds in spring and summer, and hot, calm mornings that turn breezier by afternoon. After heavy rains, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may temporarily close certain ramps or adjust access points. Most hosts follow a safety-first approach with rescheduling or weather-related refunds when conditions are unsafe. Keep your phone handy on the day of departure, and expect the captain to adjust the route for wind and chop if needed.

Absolutely. Pontoons and surf boats on Lake Grapevine are ideal for groups, with typical capacities ranging from 8 to 13 guests depending on the vessel. Captained charters make parties simple—just show up with your playlist and refreshments. For smooth logistics, plan carpooling or rideshare to park entrances, budget for any gate or ramp fees, and build in a little extra time on busy weekends to reach the dock.

Peak boating season runs from late May through early September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day being the busiest days on the water. Weekdays and morning departures usually offer calmer water and easier parking, while afternoons can be livelier with more boat traffic. September still brings warm water and, on land, GrapeFest in Historic Downtown Grapevine, which can increase town-wide demand for rideshares and lodging; book early during festival week.

Yes, the City of Grapevine traditionally hosts a July 4th fireworks show over the lake, and many boaters watch from the water. Launch areas, traffic patterns, and staging parks can change with lake levels and city operations each year, so book well in advance, arrive early, and follow all posted no-wake zones and directions from law enforcement and park staff. Your captain will guide you to a safe viewing area and handle the return in the post-show traffic.