The Best Boat Rentals in Arizona

Most standard pontoon and tritoon rentals on Lake Havasu run about $85–$150 per hour or roughly $500–$900 for a full day, depending on season, boat size, and features. Wake and surf boats, deck boats, and jet boats with more power generally run $150–$250 per hour or $900–$1,500 per day. Captained party-cruise style boats commonly start around $150–$250 per hour with a 3–4 hour minimum. Typical inclusions are USCG-approved life jackets, a bimini shade, ladder, Bluetooth stereo, and required safety gear. Fuel may or may not be included; tours with a captain often bundle fuel, while self-operated rentals usually have you top up at the end. Coolers, ice, and water toys are sometimes provided or offered as add-ons—check the listing details before you book.

On Lake Havasu you’ll find a wide range of motorboats suited to groups and occasions: pontoons and tritoons for casual cruising; deck boats and jet boats for speed and sightseeing; wake and surf boats for towing fun; and larger party-style pontoons or double-decker boats with slides for celebrations. Availability varies by season and day of the week, so it’s smart to filter by capacity and features when you search.

If you want a turnkey, low-stress day—especially for birthdays, bachelorettes, or mixed-ages groups—a captained charter is the easiest option. Local captains handle route planning, anchoring, and navigation through busy areas like the Bridgewater Channel and around shallow sandbars, so your group can relax. Confident boaters often choose self-operated pontoons or deck boats; you’ll get a safety briefing, but you are responsible for operating within local rules, monitoring weather and wind, and returning the boat fueled if required.

Common pickup and launch points include the Windsor Beach ramps at Lake Havasu State Park on London Bridge Road, Lake Havasu Marina on North McCulloch Boulevard, the free Site Six Launch Ramp on the Island near Pittsburgh Point, and Havasu Riviera Marina south of town. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed after booking, and some captains can arrange custom pickup in Thompson Bay or near the London Bridge depending on lake conditions and permitting.

Highlights include cruising the Bridgewater Channel beneath the historic London Bridge, the broad waters of Thompson Bay, and the dramatic rock walls and coves of Copper Canyon. If you head north, Topock Gorge in the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge offers a mini–Grand Canyon feel with steep cliffs and chances to spot desert bighorn sheep, raptors, and other wildlife. On warm weekends, many boaters also gather at the shallow Sandbar in the North Basin to relax and swim.

Arizona does not require a general boating license for adults, but there are important rules. Children under 12 may not operate a motorized vessel over 8 horsepower unless directly supervised by a parent/guardian or another adult age 18+. In addition, as of January 1, 2025, operators born after January 1, 2007 must complete an approved boating safety education course to operate a boat with more than 50 horsepower. Many rentals exceed that threshold, so check your operator’s age and credentials before choosing a self-operated boat; otherwise, book a captained option.

Yes—families are welcome on most boats. Arizona law requires one properly fitting, USCG-approved life jacket for every person on board, and all children 12 and under must wear theirs while the boat is underway. Rental operators stock adult and child sizes; let your captain or owner know the ages and approximate weights of kids so they can have the right sizes ready. Infant-specific life jackets are limited—confirm availability in advance if you’re bringing a baby, and plan shade, hydration, and mid-day breaks during hot months.

Most rentals allow you to bring snacks, picnic foods, and beverages, and many provide a cooler or space for one. For everyone’s safety and to protect the lake, glass is prohibited on local beaches and in the Bridgewater Channel; stick to cans or plastic containers. If your group plans to drink alcohol, designate a sober operator for any self-operated rental—Arizona’s operating-under-the-influence laws apply on the water just like on the road. Many captained charters also offer catering or can recommend easy boat-in lunch stops.

Dogs are often welcome on a case-by-case basis. Tell your captain or owner the breed and size when you inquire. Bring a leash, a non-spill water bowl, and a towel or mat to protect upholstery. Summer deck surfaces can get very hot, so plan for morning or late-day departures and avoid mid-day heat with pets.

Spring and fall bring pleasant temperatures and generally smoother water, while July through September can see extreme heat and occasional monsoon storms or sudden wind in the afternoon. If a captain deems conditions unsafe—high winds, lightning, or reduced visibility—trips are typically rescheduled or refunded per the listing’s policy. To minimize wind and heat, book morning starts, keep your itinerary flexible, and build in time for fueling and ramp traffic on busy holiday weekends.

Absolutely. Pontoons and party tritoons comfortably host 8–12 guests, and some captained party boats are rated for even larger groups. Many operators can help plan scenic cruises through the Channel for photos, a Sandbar swim stop, or a Copper Canyon sightseeing loop. When you request to book, share your headcount, preferred vibe (chill cruise vs. high-energy), must-have music, and any surprise elements so your captain can tailor the route and timing.

Peak boating season runs March through October. Spring (March–May) and early fall (September–October) offer the best balance of warm water and comfortable air temps. Holiday weekends—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—are the busiest, with July 4th fireworks launched over Thompson Bay drawing big boat tie-ups. April typically brings major events like the Lake Havasu Boat Show and the Desert Storm Poker Run & Shootout, and October hosts the IJSBA World Finals for personal watercraft. For calmer water and easier parking, choose weekdays and morning departures; for prime party energy, book weekend afternoons well in advance.

Two favorites are a Copper Canyon cruise to see the towering rock walls and a longer northbound day trip into Topock Gorge for scenery and wildlife. On warm weekends, a Sandbar stop in the North Basin is a classic Havasu experience with ankle- to waist-deep water ideal for floating and relaxing. Your captain will time these runs around wind and current, and advise on safe anchoring and no-wake zones along the way.