The Best Boat Rentals in Lake Conroe

Most Lake Conroe rentals run about $100–$200 per hour for standard pontoons and tritoons, while wake and surf boats with a captain are typically $175–$300 per hour depending on size and season. Larger party barges and small yachts booked with a captain often range from about $400–$500 per hour with minimums. For easy planning, budget roughly $450–$900 for a half day on a pontoon and $900–$1,600 for a full day, with taxes, fuel, and optional add-ons like tubes or mats calculated at checkout.

You’ll find a wide mix designed for groups and celebrations, including pontoons and tritoons for relaxed cruising, wake and surf boats for watersports, deck boats and jet boats for all-around fun, and larger cruisers or party barges for events and sunset cruises. Availability varies by date, but there are options for both captained charters and self-operated rentals.

Both options are common. Choosing a captained rental keeps logistics simple and lets your group relax while a local pro handles the route and docking. If you prefer to drive, many owners allow self-operated rentals; just note that in Texas anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must complete approved boater education to operate a powerboat, and individual owners may set additional requirements such as age minimums and security deposits.

Common pickup points include Waterpoint Marina along Highway 105 on the south shore, The Palms Marina off FM 830 on the east side, Lakeview Marina near the dam, April Plaza Marina on Highway 105 West, Stow-A-Way Marina on Calvary Road to the north, and Pier 105 Marina in Montgomery. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed after booking, and your captain or owner will share parking and check-in details.

Expect big open-water views, forested coves near the edge of the Sam Houston National Forest, and a shoreline dotted with lakefront homes and restaurants. Cruises often pass the boardwalk and restaurants at Waterpoint, the lakeside grounds of Margaritaville Lake Resort, and the red-and-white Harbour Town Lighthouse, which is best viewed from the water. Wildlife sightings can include herons and ospreys, and sunsets on the west side of the lake are a highlight.

Texas law requires anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 to complete a state-approved boater education course to operate a motorized vessel. If you book a captained trip, you won’t need to meet operator requirements because you won’t be driving. Always bring a government-issued photo ID, and follow any additional rules set by your owner or captain.

Families are welcome on most listings, and boats include U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets sized for your group. Texas requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while a vessel under 26 feet is underway, so plan for little ones to stay properly fitted. If you have infants or toddlers, you may bring your own familiar PFD for comfort, and your captain or owner will review basic safety before you depart.

Yes, most rentals allow coolers, snacks, and BYO beverages. Many boats have Bluetooth speakers and space for a cooler, and some captained party barges even include light snacks. Avoid messy foods and glass containers unless your owner explicitly allows them, and remember that the operator must remain sober; boating while intoxicated carries the same seriousness as driving under the influence.

Pet policies vary by listing, but many owners on Lake Conroe allow well-behaved dogs, sometimes with a cleaning fee or size limit. If you plan to bring a pup, mention the breed and weight in your inquiry, bring a non-slip mat and waste bags, and consider a canine life jacket for swimming breaks.

Summer on the Gulf Coast can bring pop-up showers and breezy afternoons. If conditions are unsafe, most owners will reschedule or refund according to their stated cancellation policy. Because each listing sets its own policy and minimums, check the policy before you book, and message your owner if the forecast changes so they can advise on options or adjust your meeting time.

Absolutely. Pontoons and tritoons are group-friendly and easy to host on, while party barges and small yachts are popular for milestone celebrations and corporate events. Include your headcount, preferred vibe (chill cruise, swim cove, or high-energy watersports), and any decorations or photo moments you want, and your captain can tailor a route to calm coves, scenic waterfronts, or a golden-hour cruise.

Peak season runs spring through early fall, with the busiest weekends around Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day. Late spring and early fall often bring comfortable temperatures and clearer calendars. Weekdays are quieter and usually easier on budgets, mornings are calmer with smoother water for tubing and wakesurfing, and sunset charters deliver cooler temps and great photos. If you’re planning a holiday weekend, fireworks night, or a large group, book a few weeks in advance.

Yes, many groups plan on-the-water viewing for Independence Day fireworks launched around communities like Walden, Bentwater, and Margaritaville, and winter brings a festive Christmas Boat Parade with decorated vessels and shoreline viewing parties. These dates are extremely popular, so reserve early, allow extra time for docking and pickup, and choose a captained trip if you’d prefer stress-free navigation after dark.