The Best Boat Rentals Near Vancouver

Expect most small private cruises with a captain to run about $150–$250 per hour, while self-operated pontoon and bowrider rentals are commonly $100–$150 per hour or around $400–$650 for a full day. Premium and event boats for larger groups can range from roughly $700 to $1,000+ per hour. Prices usually include required safety gear and a basic orientation; captained trips include the captain’s time. Fuel, taxes, cleaning fees, and gratuity may be extra, and launch or parking fees at public ramps are separate. Each Getmyboat listing spells out exactly what’s included so there are no surprises.

You’ll find easygoing pontoon boats for relaxing riverside cruising, nimble bowriders and deck boats for sightseeing and swimming stops, wake and surf boats for watersports, fishing boats set up for the Columbia, classic motor launches and small yachts for special occasions, and a handful of sailboats and chartered river cruisers. If you’re planning a big outing, there are larger passenger vessels in the region that host celebrations and corporate events.

Yes. Many listings offer a licensed captain so you can focus on hosting and photos while a pro handles navigation, docking, and river traffic. Confident boaters can book self-operated options after a safety briefing. Because the Columbia River can be windy with steady current, first-time visitors or groups celebrating an occasion often find a captained trip the most relaxing choice.

Common pickup points include the Marine Park Boat Launch on SE Columbia Way in Vancouver, Parker’s Landing Marina at the Port of Camas–Washougal to the east, and the Port of Ridgefield Boat Ramp on Lake River to the north. Your captain may also suggest alternative meet-up spots based on river conditions and parking. Plan for separate parking or launch fees at public facilities.

Cruises showcase the Vancouver Waterfront Park and the striking Grant Street Pier, river views of Mount Hood on clear days, the historic Interstate Bridge (I‑5) and the Glenn L. Jackson Bridge (I‑205), beaches along Government Island, and frequent jet landings and takeoffs at PDX across the channel. Keep an eye out for osprey, great blue herons, and bald eagles, especially near the Lake River and Ridgefield wetlands.

In Washington, operators of motorboats 15 hp or more generally need a Washington State Boater Education Card if born after January 1, 1955. If you’re renting, many providers issue a temporary safety checklist/card for the rental period after a brief orientation. Captained charters require no license for guests. Always bring a valid ID, and confirm the operator requirements on your specific listing before booking.

Yes—families are welcome. Every vessel must carry U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all passengers, and children 12 and under must wear one at all times on smaller boats when underway. Let your captain or owner know kids’ ages and approximate sizes in advance so they can set aside the right gear. Many ramps and marinas in the region also have seasonal life-jacket loaner stations if you need an extra.

Most captains are happy for you to bring snacks, picnic platters, birthday cakes, and canned or boxed beverages. Glass is discouraged, and red dyes or easily staining items may be restricted on premium vessels. If you prefer stress-free hosting, ask about simple catering pickups from the Vancouver Waterfront before departure. Always check your listing for any alcohol or cleaning-fee specifics.

Many hosts allow well-behaved dogs with advance approval, and several local marinas are pet-friendly on leash. Bring a towel, waste bags, and a canine life jacket if you have one, and expect a modest pet or detailing fee on select boats. Confirm pet policies with your captain when you inquire.

Summer afternoons often bring brisk westerly winds funneled by the Columbia River Gorge, so mornings are typically calmer for sightseeing and family groups. Spring snowmelt can add current and floating debris, and winter brings cold snaps and occasional east-wind events. If conditions look unsafe, most owners will offer a reschedule or refund per their stated policy; Getmyboat bookings follow each owner’s cancellation terms, which you’ll see before you pay.

Peak season runs roughly June through September, with warm weather and long daylight. Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends book up early and mean busier waterways. Vancouver hosts summer waterfront concerts and downtown festivals that can increase demand, and Portland’s July 4th festivities draw extra boat traffic regionally. For smoother water and easier parking, consider weekday mornings or shoulder-season sunny days in May or late September.

Absolutely. Most boats comfortably host 6–12 guests for private celebrations, and there are larger, captained vessels in the metro area for 20–40+ person events. Tell the owner what you’re celebrating, your ideal cruise length (two to four hours is popular), and any extras you want onboard. Many captains can help with photo stops, music hookups, and chillers for your food and drinks.

For a classic Columbia day, cruise to Government Island’s north-side beaches to swim and relax at anchor, then meander past the Grant Street Pier for golden-hour views on your return. Another scenic option is a wildlife-spotting run along Lake River near Ridgefield—keep your distance from protected refuge zones and enjoy the birdlife from the main channel.