The Best Boat Rentals in Lake Gaston

For most groups, expect simple pontoons and tritoons on Lake Gaston to run roughly $300–$600 for a half day and about $450–$800+ for a full day, depending on size, engine, and season. Small, no-frills pontoons can be closer to $250–$350 on quieter weekdays, while newer or larger boats with higher horsepower and tow‑sports setups land higher. Captained cruises (where a skipper drives) are usually priced by the hour and often include the captain’s time and basic gear; fuel, taxes, and gratuity may be additional. Listings typically include required safety equipment and life jackets, and some offer delivery to your dock for multi‑day stays.

You’ll find plenty of pontoons and tritoons for relaxed cruising and swimming, plus bowriders and deck boats for tubing and watersports. Wake and ski boats are popular in coves for surfing and boarding, and jet skis are available in some parts of the lake for quick spins. If you’re planning a celebration, many larger pontoons are set up for hosting with shade, Bluetooth audio, ladders, and easy access for swim stops.

Both options are common here. A captained rental is the least‑effort choice for planners—your skipper handles the boat, routes, docking, and safety so your group can relax. If you want to operate the boat yourself, book a self‑drive pontoon or bowrider that matches your experience level and group size. Just keep license rules in mind: Virginia waters require all operators of motorboats with 10 hp or more to complete an approved boating safety course, regardless of age; in North Carolina, the requirement applies to operators born on or after January 1, 1988. If you book with a captain, you don’t need a license because you won’t be operating the vessel.

Common pickup points include the public docks and fuel piers near the Eaton Ferry Bridge area at Eaton Ferry Marina in Littleton/Henrico, the marinas along Poplar Creek in Bracey such as Poplar Pointe Marine, and the Hwy 903 corridor near Holly Grove Marina. On the northeast side, Washburn’s Marina in Henrico is another frequent fuel and meeting spot. Your exact meeting location will be confirmed with the owner after you book, and many hosts can also deliver to private docks for multi‑day reservations.

Expect long main‑lake views, classic waterfront homes, and calm coves perfect for anchoring. Popular areas include Pea Hill Creek, Lizard Creek, Hubquarter Creek, and Poplar Creek, plus the span of the Eaton Ferry Bridge, which is a central landmark. If you cruise east, you’ll reach the Gaston Dam, where the lake feeds Roanoke Rapids Lake downstream. Around the bridge area, you’ll also spot waterfront dining spots and lively weekend boat tie‑ups.

It depends on where and how you operate. On the Virginia side of Lake Gaston, all operators of motorboats with 10 hp or more must carry proof of completing an approved boating safety course. On the North Carolina side, operators born on or after January 1, 1988 must complete an approved course to operate 10 hp or more. If you rent with a licensed captain, no boating license is required for your group. Always bring a government ID, and keep your boater‑education card (if applicable) with you on board.

Yes—Lake Gaston is very family‑friendly. Rentals provide U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for the boat’s stated capacity, and children’s sizes are commonly available (tell the owner your headcount and ages when you book). By federal rule, kids under 13 must wear a life jacket while the boat is underway. Most boats also include a safety briefing and basic gear like anchors, lines, and ladders; many offer float mats or towable tubes as add‑ons.

Bring a cooler and make it easy—BYO snacks, water, and beverages are welcome on most rentals, and many boats have shaded seating and Bluetooth speakers. If you plan to serve alcohol, designate a sober operator or book a captained trip. Glass is often discouraged for safety, and grills are rarely allowed on rental boats, so plan simple, pack‑and‑pour options. When in doubt, message the owner to confirm what’s included (ice, cooler space) and what’s permitted.

Many hosts allow well‑behaved dogs with advance notice, though a cleaning fee and size limits may apply. Bring a towel, a non‑slip mat, fresh water, and a canine life jacket if your pup will be swimming. If your group has multiple dogs or large breeds, check the listing details first so the owner can advise on space and upholstery protection.

Lake weather can change quickly in summer, especially in the afternoon. If conditions are unsafe, most owners will work with you to reschedule or offer a refund according to the cancellation policy on the listing. Otherwise, your refund window and any fees follow the policy you accepted at checkout (for example, Flexible, Moderate, or Strict). To protect your plans, review the listing’s policy before you book, and keep an eye on the forecast the day prior.

Absolutely—pontoons and tritoons are perfect for celebrations, family reunions, and casual corporate days. Most hold 8–12 guests depending on the setup, and captained options simplify hosting so you can focus on music, photos, and snacks. For holiday weekends or special lake happenings, book early and share your headcount, desired pickup spot, and any add‑ons (float mats, tubing) so your host can tailor the day.

Peak boating season runs from late May through early September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends being the busiest. Summer mornings are typically calmer and less crowded; weekday outings feel more relaxed than Saturdays. Notable annual moments include an Independence Day fireworks show near the Eaton Ferry Bridge and early‑summer watersports events around the bridge, both of which draw extra boats. For prime weekend slots in June–August, aim to reserve 3–4 weeks ahead; for shoulder‑season days in April–May and September–October, a week or two is usually enough. If you’re flexible, morning departures often have better availability and smoother water.