The Best Boat Rentals Near Monterey

Expect shared bay cruises to run about $90–$100 per person for 1.5–2 hours with soft drinks or light snacks included. Private sailboats for small groups (up to 6) are typically $250–$350 per hour by day and $300–$350 per hour at sunset, including a licensed captain, fuel, and safety gear. Larger catamarans and yachts for groups (10–24) often start around $800–$1,100 for the first hour and $800–$900 for each additional hour; two-hour sunset charters are commonly $1,900–$2,000. Large inspected vessels for bigger groups can range roughly $700–$2,000 per hour depending on capacity. Private fishing charters are usually $1,400–$1,700 for a half day and $2,500–$3,000 for a full day, often including tackle and bait. Taxes, marina fees, and gratuity are sometimes additional, and catering or specialty beverages can be added on request.

You’ll find classic monohull sailboats for intimate sails, spacious sailing catamarans for groups, comfortable motor yachts for sightseeing and celebrations, and well-equipped sportfishing boats for offshore or nearshore trips. Rigid-hull inflatables (RIBs) and small cruisers are also available seasonally. If you’re planning a larger outing, some inspected passenger vessels accommodate medium-to-large groups for private events.

Most visitors book captained charters because Monterey Bay is open-ocean water with changing wind, fog, and swell. A captain handles navigation, docking, and wildlife-friendly routes so you can focus on your group. Limited self-operated options may be available for experienced boaters on calm days; check the listing details for eligibility and any required boater education.

Common departure points include Old Fisherman’s Wharf (Wharf 1) in downtown Monterey, Municipal Wharf II (Commercial Wharf) on the harbor’s east side, Breakwater Cove Marina next to the Coast Guard Pier by Cannery Row, and the City of Monterey Harbor and Marina along Figueroa Street. Your confirmation will specify the exact meeting spot and parking options nearby.

You’ll cruise within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, with frequent views of sea otters resting in kelp, California sea lions and harbor seals on the breakwater, and seasonal whales and dolphins offshore. Along the coast you’ll pass Cannery Row, Del Monte Beach, Pacific Grove’s rocky shoreline, and—on longer routes—landmarks like Point Pinos Lighthouse, with pelicans and other seabirds overhead.

California requires a California Boater Card for operating motorized vessels as of January 1, 2025. There are exemptions, including when you book a captained charter or operate certain rental vessels under the owner’s rules and safety briefing. Always check your listing’s requirements, bring a government-issued ID, and be prepared for the captain or owner to verify experience for any self-operated booking.

Yes—family trips are common. Every vessel carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, and children under 13 must wear one while underway. Let the owner know your child’s ages and sizes so kid-appropriate vests are ready. Strollers and infants may have restrictions on smaller or more active trips; your captain will advise the best time of day for calmer water.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks, picnic-style foods, and beverages; many provide coolers and water, and some offer catering for an extra fee. Alcohol for guests 21+ is typically fine in moderation, but glass and red wine may be discouraged. Ask about ice, refrigeration, and any no-smoking or vaping policies before you pack.

Pet policies vary by vessel. Some private charters welcome small, leashed dogs, while others restrict pets to protect decks, upholstery, or wildlife in the sanctuary. If pets are permitted, keep them onboard and away from sea lions and otters, bring a small pet life jacket if you have one, and confirm cleanup rules in advance.

Monterey mornings are usually calmer with the best chance of lighter winds and less swell; afternoons can bring stronger sea breezes and summer fog. Captains monitor marine forecasts and may suggest an earlier time, a harbor-focused route, or a reschedule for safety. If the captain cancels due to weather, you’ll typically be offered a new time or a refund per the listing’s policy.

Absolutely. Boats regularly host milestone birthdays, proposals, bachelor and bachelorette gatherings, and corporate outings. Many vessels have Bluetooth sound, space for light décor, and recommended timelines for speeches or photos. For Saturdays, holiday weekends, and major local events, reserve early and share your headcount, music plans, and any catering needs up front.

Peak boating season runs roughly May through October, with long daylight and active wildlife. Major boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—sell out quickly. Two signature local events also impact availability and traffic: Monterey Car Week in mid-August and the Monterey Jazz Festival (September 26–28, 2025). For the smoothest experience, choose weekday mornings, book weekends a few weeks ahead in summer, and plan even earlier for those event dates.

Popular one- to two-hour cruises often include a harbor tour past Old Fisherman’s Wharf, sea lion–filled breakwaters, the kelp forests near Breakwater Cove, and coastal passes by Cannery Row and Pacific Grove. Longer outings may continue toward Point Pinos or along Del Monte Beach, with wildlife stops when conditions and sanctuary guidelines allow.

Yes—Monterey Bay is famous for year-round marine life. Humpback whales frequent the bay spring through fall, gray whales migrate in winter, and blue whales can appear in summer during productive upwelling. Dolphins, mola mola, otters, and seabirds are common too. Captains follow sanctuary-friendly viewing practices so your group can enjoy close-to-nature moments without disturbing wildlife.