The Best Boat Rentals in Percy Priest Lake

Expect most pontoons and tritoons to run about $120–$200 per hour in peak season, with many captained group boats falling in the $140–$200 range. Wake and surf boats commonly price around $180–$250 per hour, and small cruisers or yachts for lounging are often $200–$250 per hour. If you prefer a flat rate, half‑day self‑operated pontoons typically land between $350–$600, and full days from roughly $500–$1,200 depending on the boat, date, and demand. Captained trips usually include the captain and standard safety gear, and many include fuel; self‑operated rentals often add fuel afterward and may require a refundable security deposit. You’ll see the exact price, what’s included, and any taxes or cleaning fees on each listing before you book.

The lake’s most popular options are spacious pontoons and tritoons for relaxed cruising and swim stops, surf and wake boats for watersports, and bowriders or deck boats for quick sightseeing hops. You’ll also find fishing boats and a handful of small cruisers or yacht‑style day boats that are great for celebrations and sunset cruises. Listings clearly note capacity, amenities like Bluetooth sound, coolers, swim ladders, float mats, and whether a captain is included.

Choose a captained trip if you want a stress‑free day where a local pro handles docking, anchoring, navigation, and lake hotspots—perfect for birthdays and bachelorette groups. Confident boaters often pick self‑operated pontoons for easy cruising; those bookings commonly require a security deposit and prior operating experience. If anyone in your crew was born after January 1, 1989 and plans to operate the boat, Tennessee’s boater education rules apply; with a captain, no license is needed for guests.

Common meeting points include Elm Hill Marina on Bell Road and Four Corners Marina near the Four Corners Recreation Area. Many trips also start from Nashville Shores Marina by the waterpark or Fate Sanders Marina on the southeast side of the lake. Public ramps like Anderson Road Day Use and the Cook/Vivrett Creek ramps are additional pick‑up spots used by some hosts; your confirmation will specify the exact dock and parking details.

You’ll cruise past cedar‑lined shores and the quiet coves of Long Hunter State Park, spot sailboats near Hamilton Creek, and pass lively marinas with floating restaurants. Near the north shore, you can see the Nashville Shores lakeside attractions, and at the west end, the J. Percy Priest Dam anchors the Stones River. Keep an eye out for great blue herons, ospreys, and other birdlife that frequent the lake’s inlets, especially on calmer mornings.

For self‑operated rentals, Tennessee law requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1989 to hold a Tennessee Boater Education Certificate (residents) or a NASBLA‑approved card (non‑residents) when operating a vessel over 8.5 hp. Operators under 12 may not run a motorboat over 8.5 hp unless supervised by an adult who can take immediate control. If you book a captained charter, you won’t need a license because your captain handles the operation.

Yes—family groups are welcome. Boats carry U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jackets for all guests, and Tennessee law requires children 12 and under to wear a life jacket while on an open deck when the boat is underway. Most hosts stock multiple sizes, but if you have infants or small toddlers, bringing your own properly fitted jacket can make boarding faster and more comfortable.

Bringing snacks, picnic lunches, and non‑alcoholic drinks is common, and many captains allow BYO beverages; soft coolers pack best on deck. For everyone’s safety, many operators ask you to avoid glass. If you’d like to dock and dine, popular lakeside stops include Shipwreck Cove at Elm Hill, Papa Turney’s BBQ at Nashville Shores Marina, and the restaurant at Four Corners Marina—ask your captain to plan a tasty mid‑cruise break.

Many listings allow well‑behaved dogs, sometimes with a modest pet or cleaning fee. Confirm your pet’s size and any rules (leash on the dock, no paws on vinyl, bring a towel) when you inquire. If you have a doggy life jacket, bring it along for extra safety at swim coves.

Summer brings quick, pop‑up thunderstorms and the occasional windy afternoon, while mornings are often calmer. Captains continuously monitor conditions and will delay, reroute, or reschedule if lightning or unsafe weather develops. Each listing shows its specific cancellation or weather policy before you book; message your host through the app if the forecast changes so you can adjust plans early.

Absolutely. The lake is a favorite for celebrations, with captained pontoons and small cruisers set up for music, float mats, swim stops, and photos. Share your headcount, vibe, and timing in your inquiry, and your captain can recommend a route with calm coves for swimming and a dock‑and‑dine stop. For smoother water and easier parking, consider a weekday or an early‑day departure on weekends.

Boating runs strong from April through October, with peak season from late May to early September. Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends book out early and are the busiest on the water. Early June also draws extra visitors during Nashville’s CMA Fest downtown, so lock in boats well ahead if your dates overlap. To avoid crowds and enjoy glassy water, choose weekdays or morning departures; afternoons are warmer but can see more wind and the chance of pop‑up storms.

Yes. On warm weekends, boats often tie up at a popular hangout cove on the east side of the lake near Long Hunter State Park. It’s lively and fun, but it does get crowded—approach slowly, wear life jackets when swimming, keep music at respectful levels, and pack out all trash. Many captains know the scene well and can time your stop for a more relaxed or more social vibe based on your group’s preference.