The Best Boat Rentals Near Indianapolis

For lake days around Indianapolis, plan on about $275–$400 for a weekday half-day pontoon and up to roughly $550 for peak summer weekends and major holidays, with life jackets included and fuel policies varying by lake; for example, Geist and Morse typically top off and charge for fuel used, while Eagle Creek’s pontoon pricing commonly includes gas. If you prefer to book by the hour, many listings in the area run about $70–$150+ per hour depending on boat size, season, and whether a captain is included. Always check your listing for what’s included (PFDs, ladders, shade top, taxes/fees, and any refundable security hold). (geist.harmonycms.com, morsemarina.com, indywithkids.com, getmyboat.com)

Pontoons are the most popular choice on nearby lakes like Geist and Morse for relaxed cruising and swim stops, while small sailboats are available on Eagle Creek for a scenic, wind-powered outing. You’ll also find captained sport and wake boats for watersports days, as well as themed party-style cruisers on Geist, so you can match the vessel to your group and plans. (geistmarina.com, morsemarina.com, eaglecreekpark.org)

Both options exist. Many pontoon rentals on Geist and Morse are self-operated if you’re 25+ with a valid driver’s license and you complete a brief safety orientation or video quiz, while captained charters are available if you’d rather let a local expert handle the helm. Indiana law also allows 15-year-olds without a driver’s license to operate a motorboat only if they complete an approved boater education course and carry state ID; otherwise, a valid driver’s license is required to operate. Passengers never need a license, so going captained is an easy, stress-free choice for groups. (geistmarina.com, morsemarina.com, law.justia.com, faqs.in.gov)

Common meetup and launch points include the Geist Reservoir marina area along Olio Road on the northeast side, the Eagle Creek Park Marina area off West 56th Street/Walnut Point Road on the city’s northwest side, the public 42nd Street Boat Ramp on Dandy Trail for trailer launches at Eagle Creek, and Morse Marina on Hague Road serving Morse Reservoir to the north. Your confirmation will specify the exact dock or ramp for your outing. (geistmarina.com, eaglecreekpark.org, morsemarina.com)

Eagle Creek feels surprisingly wild for a city setting, with tree-lined shores and frequent sightings of great blue herons, cormorants, and even bald eagles, while Geist and Morse offer wide coves, bridges, and stretches of wooded shoreline with lakefront homes perfect for anchoring to swim. Expect calm reservoir scenery rather than downtown skyline views—the best part is slowing down and taking in nature close to the city. (parks.indy.gov, eaglecreekpark.org)

In Indiana, operating a motorboat on public waters generally requires a valid driver’s license. Boaters who are at least 15 and do not have a driver’s license may operate only if they complete a DNR‑approved boating safety course and carry an Indiana BMV identification card showing course completion. Those under 15 may not legally operate a motorboat over 10 horsepower. If you book a captained charter, the captain handles operation and no license is needed for passengers. (law.justia.com, boat-ed.com)

Yes—families are welcome. Boats supply U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets sized for adults and kids, and each person must have one on board; infants and very small children may need to bring their own properly sized PFDs if the rental doesn’t stock that size. Local operators also require children to wear life jackets while underway, and babies and kids count toward the boat’s maximum capacity. (geistmarina.com, morsemarina.com, faqs.in.gov)

Yes—most rentals welcome coolers with snacks and drinks, and marinas typically sell ice and beverages. Grills and glass are commonly prohibited, and the operator must remain sober; Indiana treats boating under the influence like driving, with a legal limit of 0.08% BAC and penalties for violations. Always review your listing’s specific rules before you pack. (geistmarina.com, morsemarina.com, boat-ed.com)

Policies vary by lake and operator. Many rental pontoons on Geist and Morse do not allow pets on board, while Eagle Creek’s marina outfitter permits dogs and counts them toward passenger capacity. If bringing a pet is important for your group, filter for pet‑friendly listings or confirm with your host before booking. (geistmarina.com, morsemarina.com)

Local operators typically monitor conditions and allow day‑of rescheduling for hazardous weather like lightning, high winds, or prolonged heavy rain, rather than based on early forecasts. If a storm passes, you can often resume your trip or shift your time the same day when it’s safe. Check your listing’s weather policy and message the owner if the forecast changes. (geistmarina.com, morsemarina.com)

Absolutely. Pontoons, captained sport boats, and themed cruises on nearby lakes are popular for celebrations, and many providers welcome corporate groups and special occasions; you can even arrange weekday group reservations at Eagle Creek and choose a captained option so your crew can relax while someone else drives.

Peak boating season runs roughly May through September, with summer holiday weekends—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—being the busiest and often the priciest; booking early is wise. Eagle Creek’s on‑water operations typically run April through October, while Geist and Morse focus on late spring through early fall with weekday deals in summer. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekday mornings; afternoons and weekends see more traffic. (eaglecreekpark.org, geistmarina.com)

If you’re brand new, look for a captained charter or a self‑drive pontoon with a short safety video and on‑dock orientation; Geist and Morse walk first‑timers through basics like docking and lake rules, and Eagle Creek’s smaller, slower pace is also beginner‑friendly. Choosing an early start time helps with lighter winds and boat traffic, making your first outing calm and simple. (geistmarina.com, morsemarina.com)