The Best Boat Rentals in Ocean City

Most private bay cruises with a captain run about $150–$300 per hour, with common minimums of 2–4 hours. Self-operated pontoons typically range from $100–$200 per hour. Inshore fishing charters often start around $900–$1,500 for a half day, while full-day offshore trips can range from $2,000–$3,500+. Shared sightseeing tours are commonly $30–$75 per person. Prices usually include the boat, standard safety gear, and basic cleaning; captained trips include the captain’s time, and many provide a cooler and ice. Fuel and taxes may be extra depending on the trip, and a 15–20% gratuity for great service is customary.

You’ll find a mix suited to the back bays and nearby ocean: pontoon boats for relaxed cruising, center consoles and deck boats for exploring and swimming, party-style tiki boats for celebrations, bowriders for cruising and tubing, and sportfishing yachts for offshore runs. Sailboat and larger yacht charters are available on a more limited basis but can be found in season.

If you plan to drive the boat yourself, Maryland requires anyone born after July 1, 1972 to have a Maryland-approved boating safety education certificate to operate a motorized vessel. If you book a captained charter, you do not need a license—the captain handles navigation, docking, and safety while you relax.

Choose a captained trip if you want a hands-off day, are unfamiliar with local channels, or are planning a special occasion. Captains know the tides, sandbars, no-wake zones, and best swim spots, which saves time and stress. Self-operated pontoons are great for confident boaters exploring the bays at their own pace; just build in time for the safety briefing and route review before departure.

Common pickup and launch points include Bahia Marina on the bay between 21st and 22nd Streets, Talbot Street Pier in the Inlet area downtown, Sunset Marina in West Ocean City, the Ocean City Fishing Center on Inlet Isle Lane, and the 64th Street Boat Ramp on Seabay Drive. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed after booking.

Expect skyline and Boardwalk views near the Ocean City Inlet, the Route 50 and Route 90 bridges, and quiet coves in Isle of Wight and Assawoman bays. Wildlife is a highlight—keep an eye out for ospreys and herons in the back bays, dolphins along the beach, and, on many trips toward Sinepuxent Bay, the famous Assateague wild horses grazing along the shore.

Yes—most listings are family-friendly. Coast Guard–approved life jackets are provided for all guests, and you can request child sizes in advance. Maryland law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while underway on vessels under 21 feet. For infants and toddlers, let your captain know so they can bring appropriately sized vests; pack sun protection and a light layer for the breeze.

Most charters allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages, and many provide a cooler and ice. Aluminum cans and reusable bottles are preferred over glass. Guests 21+ may bring alcohol on most private trips, but the operator must remain sober under Maryland law. If you’d like catering, ask your captain when you book.

Many private charters welcome well-behaved dogs with advance notice; policies vary by boat. If your plan includes landing on Assateague, know that pets must be leashed in permitted areas and are prohibited in some zones—your captain can steer you to pet-friendly beaches or suggest a cruise that stays on the water.

Coastal weather can shift quickly, especially on hot summer afternoons. Captains will monitor conditions and make the final call on safety; if it’s unsafe to go, most will offer a reschedule or refund per the listing’s policy. If conditions are safe but not perfectly sunny, normal cancellation rules apply. To keep flexibility, choose a listing with a lenient policy and consider morning departures for calmer winds.

Absolutely. Captained pontoons, tiki boats, and larger cruisers are popular for celebrations. Tell your host the occasion, group size, and vibe—family-friendly, mellow sunset, or festive—and they’ll suggest routes to calm swim spots, sandbars, or a waterfront bar-and-restaurant hop. Many boats allow decorations and custom playlists; just confirm capacity and any add-on fees in advance.

Peak boating season runs May through September, with the busiest days on summer weekends and during major holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day. Big local events—such as the Ocean City Air Show in mid-June, the Ocean City Tuna Tournament in mid-July, the White Marlin Open in early August, and late-September festivals like Oceans Calling—can make the bays lively and availability tight. For smoother water and easier parking, book weekday mornings or sunset trips. Reserve several weeks ahead for holidays and event weeks, and a few days ahead for typical summer weekdays.