The Best Boat Rentals in Singapore

For private charters in Singapore, expect around S$500–S$1,200 for smaller cruisers on a 3–4 hour weekday slot, S$1,200–S$2,500 for popular sailing catamarans and mid‑size motor yachts, and S$3,500–S$10,000+ for larger, event‑friendly yachts that host bigger groups. Weekend evenings and special dates price higher. Rates usually include a licensed captain and crew, fuel for standard city or Southern Islands routes, basic ice and drinking water, and use of standard floaties. Add‑ons like BBQ service, premium sound systems, decorated setups, or extra hours are easy to arrange at checkout.

Most renters choose modern motor yachts or comfortable sailing catamarans for cruising to the Southern Islands and relaxing at anchor. You’ll also find cabin cruisers for smaller groups, classic sailing monohulls for wind‑powered trips, and larger multi‑deck yachts that are purpose‑built for celebrations, team events, or sunset cruises with city‑skyline views.

Nearly all leisure charters here are captained for your convenience and safety. If you want to self‑operate, you must hold Singapore’s Powered Pleasure Craft Driving Licence (often called PPCDL), meet the owner’s insurance requirements, and be approved for the specific vessel and route. Because port waters are busy and tightly regulated, captained trips are the norm and the fastest way to get your group on the water.

No licence is needed when you book a captained charter, which is how most trips run. A valid PPCDL is required only if you’re specifically approved to skipper a powered pleasure craft yourself. If you’re unsure, simply select a captained option and the professional crew handles navigation, docking, and safety.

Common boarding points include ONE°15 Marina at Sentosa Cove and Marina at Keppel Bay for city‑skyline and Southern Islands routes. Many private charters also stage from Republic of Singapore Yacht Club on the west coast. Ferries and water taxis to the Southern Islands typically run from Marina South Pier; private charters can arrange island‑hopping pickups near these hubs when permitted.

Typical routes showcase the Sentosa shoreline, Labrador headlands, and the Singapore Strait, plus time at the Southern Islands—Lazarus and St John’s for beaches and turquoise water, Kusu for temple views offshore, and the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park area for nature and conservation scenery. On clear evenings, you’ll catch the cityscape glow with Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer, and the downtown skyline silhouetted at sunset.

Yes—families are welcome. Charters stock adult and child‑size life jackets, conduct a safety briefing before departure, and keep first‑aid supplies on board. Let the owner know your youngest guests’ ages and sizes so properly fitted PFDs are ready. Do note that every person—including infants—counts toward the vessel’s licensed maximum capacity.

BYO food and beverages are typically allowed, and many boats offer an optional BBQ grill with crewed cooking. If you prefer catering, most owners can arrange set menus. For everyone’s safety and easy cleanup, use spill‑resistant containers and avoid messy red‑stain items. Some marinas and boats limit glass on deck; reusable cups or cans are best. If you plan to go ashore on the islands, note that open flames and barbecues are generally not permitted on protected beaches.

Pet‑friendly charters exist, but policies vary by boat and by island landing rules. Small dogs are most commonly accepted. Always request approval in advance, bring a leash and pet towel, and expect a cleaning fee. If going ashore, check island guidelines first to avoid restricted areas.

Singapore’s tropical climate brings quick showers year‑round and afternoon thunderstorms during the inter‑monsoon months, with early‑morning “Sumatra squalls” more common from April to November. Light rain usually means the trip proceeds, while lightning, poor visibility, or unsafe seas trigger a captain’s weather call. Most operators offer rescheduling to the next available slot or a fair‑weather credit if conditions are unsafe at departure; exact policies appear in each listing before you book.

Yes—boats here are set up for celebrations. Choose a capacity that fits your headcount, then add décor, playlist, BBQ, and photography if you like. Many marinas run fixed 4‑hour time blocks that make planning simple, and crews are used to cakes, surprise proposals, and branded team events. Share your plan in the booking message so the owner can stage the route, anchorage time, and any keepsake moments around sunset.

You can cruise year‑round. Mornings are cooler and often smoother; sunset slots deliver the best skyline views. Weekdays are quieter and sometimes priced lower than weekends. The drier Southwest Monsoon (June–September) is popular, though occasional regional haze may affect views; December–January is wetter but still very doable with flexible timing. The busiest dates are local highlights such as National Day (August 9) and New Year’s Eve fireworks at Marina Bay, plus the Singapore Grand Prix period (early October). U.S. holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day don’t affect local availability, but Saturdays and public holidays fill fastest—book those well in advance.

Absolutely. Most charters do a relaxed city‑cruise and then anchor at Lazarus Island’s sheltered bay for swimming, floats, and beach time, with optional hops to St John’s or Kusu when schedules and tides allow. Big Sister’s Island (part of Sisters’ Islands Marine Park) has reopened for day visits with conservation‑minded facilities; operating hours and access rules apply. Your captain will advise the best anchorage on the day and provide safe swim briefs before anyone gets in the water.