The Best Boat Rentals in Lake Whitney

Most Lake Whitney rentals run about $150–$200 per hour for ski and wake-style powerboats, while roomy pontoons commonly run around $600–$700 per day. Jet ski packages are often priced near the mid-$600s per day. Prices vary by boat size, captain fees, fuel, and add-ons like tubes or lily pads, but life jackets and required safety gear are typically included.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons for relaxing cruises, wake and ski boats for tubing and surfing, and jet skis for fast fun. Availability changes with the season, but these are the most common powered options on the lake.

Both options are available. Book a captained outing if you want a stress-free day while a local pro handles navigation and anchoring; choose a self-operated rental if you’re experienced and prefer to be at the helm. In Texas, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must complete an approved boater education course to operate a motorboat over 15 horsepower, and operators must be at least 13 years old, so factor that into your decision.

Common meet-up points include public ramps like Lake Whitney State Park, McCown Valley Park, and the Lofers Bend areas near Whitney Dam, as well as private marinas such as Lake Whitney Marina at Juniper Cove. Your owner or captain will confirm the exact launch spot after booking based on lake levels, parking, and your itinerary. (tpwd.texas.gov, swf-wc.usace.army.mil, lakewhitneymarina.com)

Expect broad open water, the striking Whitney Dam, and scenic limestone bluffs and rock points along the shoreline. Keep an eye out for wildlife—deer and wild turkeys are common, and bald eagles are occasionally sighted near Lake Whitney State Park, especially in cooler months. (en.wikipedia.org, tpwd.texas.gov)

Texas requires approved boater education for operators born on or after September 1, 1993 when driving motorboats over 15 horsepower. Bring your photo ID and boater education card (or equivalent Coast Guard license proof) if you’ll be the operator; otherwise, book a captained rental.

Families are welcome. Rentals supply U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, and in Texas children under 13 must wear a life jacket while a vessel under 26 feet is underway. Ask your owner to have child sizes ready when you book.

Yes—most owners encourage you to bring snacks, water, and a cooler. For shoreside staging and dock time, many parks and marinas prohibit glass in swimming areas and on docks, so pack cans and reusable bottles instead. Always confirm any alcohol guidelines with your owner and designated driver or captain. (tpwd.texas.gov, lakewhitneymarina.com)

Many listings are dog-friendly with prior approval and a cleaning fee; just mention your pet in the inquiry. When meeting at parks, keep pets leashed and note that Texas State Parks do not allow pets in designated swimming areas, so plan boarding and swim stops accordingly.

Your captain or owner will monitor local conditions for wind and storms. Weather-related refunds or reschedules follow the individual owner’s policy on Getmyboat; many will work with you to shift times or dates if conditions are unsafe.

Absolutely. Pontoons and wake boats make it easy to celebrate with music, floats, and swim stops, and captained trips let the host focus on the fun. Share your headcount and vibe in the inquiry so your host can suggest the best itinerary and pickup point for your group.

Peak season runs May through September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day drawing the most demand and ramp traffic. Early mornings are typically cooler and calmer, and weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Local summer events and the park’s annual youth fishing tournament on the first Saturday in June can also affect availability, so book early for those dates.

Plan time to idle by the dam and cruise the bluffs near the Lofers Bend and Soldier’s Bluff areas, then tuck into coves off the Cedron and McCown arms for swimming. If you’re visiting in cooler months, scan the treetops for migrating raptors and occasional bald eagles around Lake Whitney State Park. (swf-wc.usace.army.mil, tpwd.texas.gov)