The Best Boat Rentals Near Lake Sammamish

For most trips, expect pontoons and deck/ bowrider boats to run about $150–$225 per hour, wake and surf boats about $225–$350 per hour, and small cruisers or yachts typically $300–$600+ per hour. Half-day totals often land between $600 and $1,400 depending on boat type, season, and whether a captain is included. Prices usually cover required safety gear and life jackets; fuel, captain’s fee, and water toys like tubes or wake gear may be included or billed separately. Taxes and platform service fees apply at checkout, so it’s smart to review the offer details before you confirm.

The most popular options here are comfortable pontoon boats for relaxed cruising, sporty bowriders and deck boats for swimming stops, and wake or surf boats set up for towing. You’ll also find a handful of small cruisers for celebratory cruises. Larger yachts are more common on nearby Lake Washington, but some owners can trailer boats to Lake Sammamish upon request. Choose the size that fits your group and activity—most boats seat about 6–12 guests, depending on the model and weight limits.

Captained trips are the easiest option for groups, celebrations, or first-time visitors—your skipper handles routing, docking, and safety while you enjoy the day. Self-operated rentals can be a good value if you have an experienced operator who meets Washington’s boating card rules and the owner’s experience requirements. If you’re on the fence, book a captain for the first hour to learn the boat and the lake, then take the helm with confidence if the owner allows.

The primary meeting point is the Lake Sammamish State Park Boat Launch in Issaquah, which has multiple lanes, docks, and large trailer parking. Another common option is Vasa Park Resort on the west shore in Bellevue, which offers a private launch and day-use parking. Many owners can also meet at a renter’s private dock on the lake. Plan extra time for summer weekends, and note that state park parking typically requires a Discover Pass or day-use fee.

You’ll cruise beneath the Issaquah Alps—Tiger, Squak, and Cougar Mountains—past forested shorelines and beautiful waterfront homes. Keep an eye out for great blue herons and bald eagles that frequent the lake, especially near the wetlands by the Issaquah Creek delta. In early fall, you may even spot salmon staging near the creek mouth before heading upstream, which is a memorable bonus to a foliage-season cruise.

In Washington, anyone 12 or older who was born after January 1, 1955 must carry a Washington State Boater Education Card to operate a motorboat of 15 hp or more. Some rentals can issue a temporary safety certificate after a checklist if you don’t have a card, but age and horsepower rules still apply. If you’d rather skip the paperwork and driving, book a captained charter and let a local pro handle the helm.

Yes—families are welcome. Rentals include U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, and Washington law requires children 12 and under to wear a life jacket when underway on vessels under 19 feet. Be sure to request the correct child sizes in your booking message. Captains typically give a brief safety talk and will recommend where kids should sit while the boat is moving.

Most owners allow coolers, snacks, and your own beverages, and many boats have cupholders and small tables for easy setup. Glass is commonly discouraged, and red wine or heavily dyed drinks can be a no-go due to staining—ask your owner for their preferences. If you plan to drink, designate a sober skipper for self-operated charters; for captained trips, the captain must remain alcohol-free while operating the vessel.

Pet policies vary by owner, but many allow well-behaved dogs with prior approval and sometimes a cleaning fee. Bring a towel and a non-slip mat for your pup, and consider a canine life jacket if your dog will be swimming. On shore, dogs must be leashed in Lake Sammamish State Park and are not permitted in marked swim areas.

Summer weather is usually calmest in the mornings, with July and August being the driest months. If wind, lightning, or unsafe conditions pop up, most owners will reschedule or refund per their stated policy; otherwise, standard cancellation terms apply. Check your listing’s cancellation policy before booking, and message the owner a day or two ahead for a weather check and backup plan.

Absolutely. Pontoon and deck boats are ideal for casual celebrations, while wake boats are great if your crew wants tubing or surfing. Captained options make hosting easy, and many owners can recommend swim coves, photo spots, and add-ons like coolers or inflatables. Share your headcount, preferred vibe, and timeframe in the inquiry so the owner can tailor the day.

Peak season runs June through early September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends booking up first. Regionally, Seafair Weekend on nearby Lake Washington (August 1–3, 2025) drives demand across area lakes, so reserve well in advance. In Issaquah, Salmon Days (October 4–5, 2025) can create heavy traffic near the south end of the lake. For smoother logistics and better prices, choose weekday mornings; for warmer swims and a festive atmosphere, pick sunny weekend afternoons and plan extra time for parking and pickup.