The Best Boat Rentals Near Jordanelle Reservoir

Most groups budget around $150–$250 per hour for a pontoon with room for 8–12 guests, and about $175–$300+ per hour for wake and surf boats with watersports gear. Full‑day rentals commonly run $700–$1,200 depending on boat size, season, and whether a captain is included. Standard safety gear and life jackets are typically included, and many wake boats include boards, tubes, and lines. Plan for fuel to be charged separately and remember Jordanelle State Park collects a day‑use entry fee per vehicle at the gate during peak season. Exact pricing and inclusions appear on each Getmyboat listing.

The most popular choices are comfortable pontoons for relaxed cruising and swim stops, plus wake and surf boats built for towing. You’ll also find family‑friendly bowriders and occasional jet boats or personal watercraft. Capacities usually range from 8 to 15 guests; check each listing for the posted maximum.

Captained outings are the simplest option—your skipper handles docking, routing, and safety while you focus on your group. Self‑operated rentals are available for experienced boaters who meet Utah’s age rules and the owner’s requirements. Many listings are “captain optional,” so you can decide what fits your comfort level and budget.

Most trips meet at the Hailstone Main Marina inside Jordanelle State Park, home to the 8‑lane boat ramp, marina store, fuel dock, and courtesy docks. Personal watercraft often stage at the Hailstone PWC launch nearby. A smaller, more natural alternative exists at the Rock Cliff area on the east side; its single‑lane ramp is seasonal and suited to smaller craft. Your exact meeting point will be confirmed in your Getmyboat messages before departure—plan to arrive a little early to clear the park entrance and parking.

You’ll cruise with wide views of the Wasatch Back, including Deer Valley’s ski runs above the lake and the Uinta Mountains in the distance. The coves and upper arms host frequent raptor sightings—osprey and red‑tailed hawks in summer, with bald eagles more common in late fall and winter. Expect glassy water in the morning, mountain vistas all day, and golden light on the hillsides near sunset.

Utah does not require a general boating license for adults to operate a motorboat, but operators must be competent and follow state laws. For personal watercraft, youth ages 12–17 must complete Utah’s approved PWC education course and carry their card; those 12–15 also need direct onboard supervision by an adult. If you’re bringing your own vessel to launch, Utah’s Mussel Aware boater course is required each season to help prevent invasive species. If you book a captained charter, no license is needed for your group.

Absolutely. Utah law requires U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for everyone onboard, and children 12 and under must wear theirs whenever the boat is underway. Most rentals include properly sized life jackets for adults and kids, plus a throwable device on boats 16 feet and longer. If you have infants or toddlers, confirm sizing with the owner or bring a vest your child already fits well.

Yes—coolers, snacks, and non‑glass containers are welcome on most boats, and captained wake or pontoon charters often encourage BYO. In Utah, passengers may consume alcohol, but the operator must remain sober and is subject to boating‑under‑the‑influence laws. Keep it simple with cans or reusable bottles, pack out all trash, and ask your owner about any boat‑specific rules.

Dogs are generally welcome at the Hailstone side of Jordanelle State Park when leashed and attended, and many owners allow well‑behaved dogs aboard with prior approval. Policies vary by boat and by area of the park; Rock Cliff has tighter restrictions to protect sensitive habitat. Confirm pet fees, allowed areas, and clean‑up expectations with your owner before booking.

Mountain lakes can be calm at sunrise, breezy by midday, and mellow again near dusk, with occasional pop‑up storms. If unsafe conditions arise, most owners will reschedule or refund per their stated policy. Each Getmyboat listing shows its cancellation terms, which range from flexible to strict; read them before you book and message the owner if you have timing concerns or need a weather backup plan.

Yes—pontoons with a captain are perfect for celebrate‑and‑swim days, while surf boats add a fun activity everyone can try. Share your headcount, preferred vibe, and playlist with the owner, and they’ll recommend the right boat and time of day. Many groups pair their cruise with a cabana or pavilion reservation at Hailstone for pre‑ or post‑lake snacks, and captains can suggest calm coves for photos and cake‑cutting.

Peak boating runs June through August, with warmest water typically in July and early August. Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends are the busiest on the ramps and the lake. Local events such as the Park City Kimball Arts Festival (August 1–3, 2025), the Deer Valley Music Festival concerts in late July and early August, and Midway Swiss Days (August 29–30, 2025) can increase traffic and lodging demand. For the smoothest water and easiest parking, choose weekdays or early morning departures; late‑day golden hour is also lovely once afternoon breezes settle.

For wildlife lovers, plan a slow cruise toward the Rock Cliff arm to scan for ospreys and other birds of prey near the Upper Provo River inlet, then swing back for a sunset lap beneath Deer Valley’s ridgelines. If you’re chasing perfect surf, book a morning session on a purpose‑built wake boat when the lake is glassy and crowds are light.