The Best Boat Rentals in Lake Simcoe

On Lake Simcoe, most self-operated pontoon and runabout rentals range from about $75–$150 CAD per hour, with half-day options commonly around $350–$500 CAD. Captained cruisers, wake/surf boats, and small yachts usually start around $225–$350 CAD per hour, with premium or larger vessels running higher, and full-day charters often from roughly $900 to $1,500+ CAD. Prices usually include the required safety gear and basic orientation, and captained trips include a licensed skipper. Fuel, taxes, security deposit, and gratuity may be extra, and some hosts include ice and bottled water. Always review what’s included on the listing before you book so there are no surprises at checkout.

You can choose from comfy pontoons for casual cruising, bowriders and runabouts for swimming and sightseeing, wake/surf boats for towing sports, sailboats for a relaxed day under canvas, and cabin cruisers or small motor yachts for groups that want onboard shade, a head, and more lounge space. Pick the style that matches your group size, desired pace, and whether you plan to swim, sightsee, or celebrate.

If you want to relax, celebrate, and let a local expert handle navigation and docking, a captained charter is the easiest option. It’s also a smart choice if you’re new to the lake, planning water sports, or hosting a special event. Confident boaters can book self-operated rentals after a safety briefing; you’ll need proof of competency and must follow local rules. For mixed groups and stress-free outings, most planners choose a captain so they can focus on the fun while the skipper manages the boat, route, and weather calls.

Common pickup spots include the City of Barrie Marina on Kempenfelt Bay and the Port of Orillia on the Atherley Narrows, both right by walkable waterfronts and amenities. Many hosts also stage trips from Friday Harbour Marina near Big Bay Point and Lefroy Harbour Resorts in Innisfil, and self-drive renters often launch at public ramps like Innisfil Beach Park or Beaverton Harbour on the northeast shore. Confirm your exact meeting point with the owner after booking and build in time for parking and loading.

Expect big-lake views, sandy shorelines, and lively waterfronts. In Barrie’s Kempenfelt Bay you’ll cruise past the city skyline and the iconic Spirit Catcher sculpture by the waterfront. To the east, the Atherley Narrows link Lake Simcoe with Lake Couchiching and lead to Orillia’s parks and boardwalk. Along the southern and eastern shores you’ll pass resort-style marinas, beaches like the Sibbald Point area, and the islands near Georgina, with plenty of calm coves for swim stops when conditions allow.

In Canada, anyone operating a motorized pleasure craft must carry proof of competency. For renters, that can be your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or a completed Transport Canada Rental Boat Safety Checklist done with the rental provider for the duration of your booking. Visitors may use an equivalent credential from their home country. If you book a captained charter, no license is required because the captain operates the boat.

Yes, children are welcome on most boats. Operators provide the required safety equipment, including lifejackets for the stated capacity. Be sure to share ages and approximate sizes in advance so the crew can have the right fits ready; bringing your own properly sized infant or toddler PFD is always a good idea. Captains will cover safe seating, ladder use, and swim procedures during the safety briefing, and many require kids to wear lifejackets while underway.

Most hosts allow you to bring snacks, picnic-style meals, and non-alcoholic drinks. Soft-sided coolers pack best, and many captains ask that you avoid glass. Policies for alcoholic beverages vary by boat and are subject to Ontario rules; many captains permit responsible drinks once the boat is anchored or docked. If you’re celebrating, ask about catering, ice, and cleanup so you can keep prep simple.

Pet policies are set by each owner. Many welcome small, well-behaved dogs with prior approval and may charge a cleaning fee. If your pet is joining, bring a leash, water bowl, towel, and a snug pet PFD, and let the captain know ahead of time so they can plan an easy boarding spot and swim break if appropriate.

Lake Simcoe is a large, open lake that can see quick shifts in wind and short, choppy waves, especially in the afternoon. Captains monitor conditions closely and will adjust the route, reschedule, or cancel if it isn’t safe. On Getmyboat, cancellations and weather decisions follow the policy on each listing; many owners offer rescheduling or refunds for unsafe conditions, while standard change-of-mind cancellations follow the owner’s stated policy. Review the policy before you book and message the owner if you have specific timing needs.

Absolutely. Many boats are set up for special occasions with Bluetooth sound, swim platforms, shade, and coolers, and captains know great spots for photos and swim stops. Share your headcount, vibe, and must-haves when you inquire so the owner can recommend the right vessel and itinerary. Simple decor packs in easily, but skip anything that sheds (like confetti) and confirm any BYO food or beverage details in advance.

Peak boating season runs roughly late June through early September when air and water are warmest. Shoulder months in May, early June, and late September can be beautiful with lighter crowds but cooler water. The busiest weekends align with Canadian holidays like Victoria Day, Canada Day (July 1), the Civic Holiday (early August), and Labour Day. If you’re traveling from the U.S., note that Memorial Day and July 4 aren’t Canadian holidays, but those weekends can still book up. For smoother water and easier parking, choose weekdays or morning departures; golden-hour sunset cruises are also popular for calm conditions and great light.

Popular options include a swim-and-sightseeing loop in Kempenfelt Bay with time by Barrie’s waterfront, a cruise to Friday Harbour for a relaxed boardwalk stop, an anchorage off the beaches near Sibbald Point outside designated swim zones, or a day run through the Atherley Narrows into Lake Couchiching with lunch near Orillia’s docks. Scenic passes along Georgina’s shoreline and the nearby islands make for great photos; your captain can suggest the best route for the day’s wind and waves.